Imagine a dessert that’s effortlessly fun, vibrantly colorful, and incredibly delicious – all without ever needing to turn on your oven! Our Marshmallow Popcorn Cake is exactly that: a joyful explosion of sweet and salty flavors, packed with crunchy peanuts and festive M&M’s. This easy, no-bake recipe is a guaranteed hit for any occasion, from lively birthday parties and cozy movie nights to cheerful holiday gatherings. Get ready to delight everyone with this simple yet spectacular treat!

Contents

Irresistible Marshmallow Popcorn Cake: The Ultimate No-Bake Treat

Years ago, my dear friend Gail introduced me to the concept of a popcorn cake, and my immediate reaction was, “A what?!” I genuinely couldn’t fathom such a creation, much to her surprise. She passionately explained how incredibly simple they are to make, requiring no baking whatsoever. Beyond their effortless preparation, she highlighted their incredible versatility, perfect for customizing with vibrant colors and various themes for any holiday or special event. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and the idea of a no-bake, colorful dessert stuck with me.

Fast forward about five years, when I was meticulously planning recipes for my blog’s milestone Ten-Year Anniversary Celebration. The idea of a Popcorn Cake resurfaced, and it immediately clicked: this was the perfect celebratory treat! I was torn between calling it a blog anniversary or a birthday, but ultimately, who could resist a festive Birthday Popcorn Cake? It was a lighthearted and fun way to mark a significant occasion, reflecting the joy and creativity I aim to share through my recipes. This recipe truly embodies the spirit of celebration and ease, making it a fitting centerpiece for any joyous event.

Why This Marshmallow Popcorn Cake is a Must-Try Dessert

While there are countless ways to personalize a popcorn cake, this particular recipe, just like Gail’s original, hits all the right notes. Its beauty lies in its adaptability. For instance, if you or your guests have a peanut allergy, simply omit them for an equally delightful treat. I even considered blending concepts by using peanut M&M’s for an extra layer of flavor and crunch, though I stuck to the classic this time. Other recipes often suggest additions like gumdrops, which would be wonderfully whimsical, or jelly beans for an Easter-themed delight. The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to tailor this cake to any palate or party theme. From vibrant sprinkles to a drizzle of melted chocolate, you can easily transform this basic recipe into a seasonal masterpiece or a personalized favorite.

Many popcorn cake recipes opt for a caramel base, but our version proudly features fluffy marshmallows, creating a uniquely soft and chewy texture that sets it apart. It reminds me of the absolute best popcorn balls—the kind that are pleasantly gooey and yield easily, rather than being hard and a challenge to bite into. This marshmallow-based cake is wonderfully soft and delightfully yummy, offering a satisfying chew with every bite. You won’t have to worry about breaking your teeth; instead, you’ll enjoy a sweet, yielding indulgence that melts in your mouth. The combination of the sweet marshmallow binder with the salty crunch of popcorn and peanuts, plus the chocolatey pop of M&M’s, creates a symphony of textures and flavors that is truly addictive.

One important note for this delightful popcorn bundt cake: it’s best enjoyed fresh! While it can be stored, its ultimate gooeyness and irresistible texture are at their peak shortly after preparation. We certainly never have trouble finishing it quickly! For optimal freshness, store any leftovers in an airtight container and consume within two days. The air can quickly dry out the marshmallows, making it less soft, so proper storage is key to preserving its wonderful texture. Though, honestly, you’ll likely find it disappears much faster than that!

Perfecting Your Popcorn Cake: Customization and Expert Tips

The true charm of this Marshmallow Popcorn Cake lies in its incredible versatility, making it perfect for any occasion or dietary preference. While our recipe features classic M&M’s and salted peanuts, don’t hesitate to get creative!
Consider swapping M&M’s for other candy-coated chocolates, mini chocolate chips, or even chopped candy bars for a different flavor profile. For instance, crushed candy canes make a festive addition during the winter holidays, while Reese’s Pieces can add a peanut butter twist.
For a nut-free version, simply omit the peanuts and perhaps add pretzels for a salty crunch, or use extra candy pieces or sprinkles.
Seasonal celebrations are a breeze: use red and green M&M’s for Christmas, pastel jelly beans for Easter, or orange and black sprinkles for Halloween. You can even drizzle melted chocolate, white chocolate, or a colorful candy melt over the top once it’s set for an extra touch of decadence and visual appeal.
For a gourmet twist, try adding a pinch of sea salt to the marshmallow mixture before melting to enhance the sweet and salty balance, taking the flavor to the next level.
Ensure your popcorn is freshly popped and cooled slightly before mixing, and carefully remove any unpopped kernels to prevent unpleasant surprises and ensure a smooth eating experience.
Working quickly when adding M&M’s is key to keep them from melting and bleeding their colors too much, preserving their vibrant appearance and distinct crunch.
Pressing the mixture firmly and evenly into the bundt pan helps it hold its shape beautifully, resulting in a perfectly formed cake that’s easy to slice and serve. Using a piece of wax paper or parchment paper to press down can also help prevent sticking to your hands.

Essential Ingredients for Your Delightful Popcorn Cake

To create this irresistible no-bake treat, you’ll need a handful of readily available ingredients, each playing a vital role in the final delicious outcome:

Freshly Popped Popcorn: This is the foundation of our cake. Approximately 14 cups of popped corn (from about two 2.71-ounce bags of microwave popcorn, or air-popped equivalent) will give you the perfect volume. Remember to meticulously remove all unpopped kernels for a pleasant crunch without any hard surprises.
Vegetable Oil: A half-cup of vegetable oil contributes to the smooth consistency of our marshmallow binder, ensuring it coats the popcorn evenly without becoming too thick or brittle.
Butter: One stick (or half a cup) of butter adds a rich, decadent flavor to the marshmallow mixture and helps create that wonderful gooey texture we all love.
Marshmallows: The magical ingredient that binds everything together! A 16-ounce package of regular-sized marshmallows (or mini marshmallows for faster melting) creates the sticky, sweet coating that holds the popcorn and candies in place, giving the cake its signature soft and chewy texture.
Salted Peanuts: One cup of salted peanuts provides a fantastic crunchy texture and a savory-salty counterpoint that beautifully complements the sweet marshmallows and chocolate. If you prefer, unsalted peanuts can be used, or any other nuts like cashews or almonds.
M&M’s: Two cups (or a 1-pound bag) of colorful M&M’s are essential. Not only do they add a burst of vibrant color, making the cake visually appealing, but their chocolatey crunch and candy shell make every bite exciting and fun. Feel free to use plain, peanut, or even seasonal M&M’s to match your theme.

With these simple ingredients, you’re just minutes away from crafting a dessert that’s sure to be a showstopper!

How to Make Your Easy No-Bake Popcorn Cake: A Quick Guide

One of the most remarkable aspects of this cake is how quickly it comes together – literally in about 10 minutes of active prep time! You’ll spend more time cleaning up than you will actually making this delightful treat. Follow these simple steps for a perfect Marshmallow Popcorn Cake:

Begin by preparing your popcorn. Once popped, transfer it to a very large bowl, making sure to remove any unpopped kernels. Generously spray a bundt pan with non-stick cooking spray, ensuring every crevice is coated to prevent sticking. Set both aside, ready for action.
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the butter, vegetable oil, and marshmallows. Stir continuously with a rubber spatula until the mixture is completely melted and smooth, taking care not to burn the marshmallows. Keep the heat low to ensure a gradual melt.
Carefully pour the warm, melted marshmallow mixture over the prepared popcorn in the large bowl. Using a sturdy spatula, gently but thoroughly stir until every piece of popcorn is evenly coated with the sweet, sticky mixture. Work quickly to ensure all popcorn is covered before the marshmallow cools and stiffens.
Add the salted peanuts to the popcorn mixture and fold them in, distributing them evenly throughout. This adds a wonderful nutty flavor and satisfying crunch.
Working quickly, incorporate the M&M’s into the mixture. The faster you mix them in and press the cake, the less likely they are to melt and lose their vibrant colors. A gentle hand is key here to maintain their distinct appearance.
Firmly press the entire popcorn mixture into the prepared bundt pan. Ensure it’s packed tightly to help the cake hold its shape beautifully once set. Allow it to stand at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes, giving it ample time to set before carefully inverting it onto a serving plate. You can also place it in the refrigerator for a quicker set, about 15-20 minutes.

This cake truly shines when eaten the same day it’s made, enjoying its soft, gooey texture at its peak. If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain as much freshness as possible. Avoid refrigeration if you want to keep that signature gooey texture, as it can cause the marshmallows to harden.

Love This Recipe? Pin It for Later!

Don’t let this fantastic Popcorn Cake recipe slip away! Make sure to save it to your favorite Pinterest board so you can easily find it whenever you’re ready to whip up this crowd-pleasing dessert. Whether you’re planning a birthday, a holiday feast, or just a fun movie night, having this simple and delicious recipe handy will make your life a little sweeter. Share the joy with friends and family by pinning this recipe today!

Celebrating a Decade: An Affair from the Heart’s 10th Anniversary Extravaganza!

This delightful Popcorn Cake recipe is just one part of my incredible Tenth Anniversary Giveaway Extravaganza! To mark this special milestone, I’m hosting a series of giveaways, and today’s celebration is all about cozy movie nights, snuggling on the couch, and pure relaxation. It’s my way of saying a massive “thank you” to all of you who have supported An Affair from the Heart for an entire decade!

While I confess I’m more of a music enthusiast than a TV addict, I absolutely adore movies. I truly miss the simple pleasure of visiting a theater and enjoying a film with a giant bucket of popcorn. These days, most of our viewing happens via streaming services from the comfort of our homes. I’ve even re-watched some of my favorite series multiple times – does anyone else do that? What’s the most captivating show you’ve ever binge-watched? I’d love to hear your recommendations in the comments!

Today, I’m thrilled to be giving away a super-soft blanket along with a $25 Netflix gift card. It’s the perfect combo for those ultimate cozy nights, chilling in your comfiest PJs and a big hoodie (because I absolutely adore my PJs and hoodies!) while diving into your favorite Netflix shows. Imagine curling up with this luxurious blanket, a bowl of popcorn (perhaps even a slice of this Popcorn Cake!), and endless entertainment at your fingertips. But wait, there’s even more to this amazing prize!

Speaking of comfort, the lucky winner of today’s giveaway will also receive one of my exclusive 10th Anniversary T-Shirts! These limited-edition shirts are a stylish way to celebrate this milestone with me. Please note that prizes are only available to my readers in the US, and T-Shirts come in limited sizes. I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause to my international readers.

But wait, the celebration doesn’t end there. There’s still MORE to win!

Grand 10th Anniversary Prizes: Your Chance to Win Big!

In addition to all the fantastic daily prizes, I’m also giving away a coveted KitchenAid Mixer to one incredibly lucky winner! Entering this grand prize giveaway couldn’t be simpler: all you have to do is make one of my cherished recipes. This is your chance to upgrade your kitchen with a stand mixer that’s loved by home cooks and professional chefs alike!

That’s right! Whether you bake a delicious cake, prepare a delightful dinner for your family, or try out a new appetizer or drink recipe from my blog, simply snap a photo of your culinary creation and email it to me at [email protected].

I’ll be accepting entries from March 1st until 11:59 PM CST on March 31st. Feel free to make as many recipes as you like; each photo you send, along with a brief note about what you made and your thoughts on the recipe, counts as an additional entry. It’s that easy and a fantastic way to explore new dishes!

Bonus Entry Opportunity!

Boost your chances of winning with a bonus entry for each recipe photo you share and tag me on social media. Please remember not to share the complete recipe, but rather just the photo and the recipe title, tagging my
Facebook page
or my
Instagram page.
Don’t forget to include the hashtag: #AnAffairFromTheHeart. As some social media accounts are set to private, preventing me from seeing your posts, please send a screenshot of your share to my email as well to ensure your entry is counted! Every share helps spread the word about delicious food and fantastic giveaways!

But guess what? The excitement doesn’t stop there! Nope! There are nine more incredible prizes you can enter to win! The process is straightforward, and all 10 prize details (including the nine additional prizes and today’s featured giveaway) are fully explained
here
in this comprehensive Rafflecopter Giveaway. You can enter to win some of these fantastic prizes every single day throughout the month of March, so be sure to visit frequently and share with your friends and family! Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to win!

It might be MY 10th (anniversary) BIRTHDAY, but I’M the one giving out all the presents!

Why? Because giving gifts is one of my MOST FAVORITE THINGS to do!

Enter to Win All The Amazing Prizes Here!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Beyond the Cake: More Irresistible Popcorn Recipes!

Popcorn holds a very special place in my heart – I simply can’t get enough of it! It’s such a versatile and comforting snack, perfect for any time of day. In fact, my website features an entire category dedicated to
popcorn and snack mix recipes,
where you’ll find everything from sweet to savory creations. One of my absolute favorites, the
Touchdown Snack Mix,
doesn’t even contain popcorn itself, but it’s infused with rich, buttery popcorn oil, making it unbelievably delicious and a game-day essential!

I must confess, whenever I make popcorn at home, there’s rarely a single kernel left. Between me and my furry companions (the puppers!), we tend to devour every last crumb. However, because I’ve often seen people ask if popcorn can be frozen, I decided to investigate, and guess what? It absolutely can! This is great news for anyone who loves to have homemade popcorn readily available.

If you find yourself with leftover popped corn and wish to save it for later, simply place it in an airtight container or a freezer bag, pressing out as much air as possible before sealing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to a month. While fresh popcorn always offers the best taste and texture, freezing is a great option for extending its life, especially if you’re popping a large batch for multiple uses. Alternatively, if you have some extra popcorn on hand, why not transform it into one of these other fantastic recipes? They’re all simple, fun, and guaranteed to satisfy your popcorn cravings!

Here are some more incredible recipes that cleverly use popcorn, or are popcorn-inspired, to inspire your next snack creation:

Crack Corn (Candy Coated Popcorn) – The delightful treat pictured above, a sweet and crunchy addiction!
Peppermint Bark Popcorn – A festive and minty twist, perfect for holiday gatherings or a cool, refreshing snack.
Winter Wonderland Snack Mix – A magical blend of sweet and savory elements that evokes cozy winter evenings.
Easy Caramel Popcorn – A classic, sticky-sweet indulgence that’s surprisingly simple to make at home.
Tabasco Honey Butter Popcorn – For those who love a surprising kick and a unique flavor profile in their popcorn!
Easy Marshmallow Popcorn Balls – The individual version of our cake, equally delightful and perfect for grab-and-go treats.
Nacho Doritos Popcorn – A savory, cheesy, and addictive snack that transforms regular popcorn into a bold flavor experience.

Let’s make every occasion a reason to celebrate with this joyful Marshmallow Popcorn Cake!

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Print Recipe

Popcorn Cake Recipe

Fun and festive marshmallow Popcorn Cake filled with M&M’s and peanuts. An easy no-bake colorful dessert recipe, perfect for birthdays, holidays and even movie night!

Prep Time

10 minutes

Total Time

10 minutes

Cuisine:
American

Keyword:
birthday popcorn cake, bundt cake, M&M’s, marshmallow popcorn cake, no bake, peanuts, popcorn cake, easy dessert, holiday treat, movie night snack

Servings:

12
servings

Calories:

328
kcal

Author:
Michaela Kenkel

Equipment

Rubber Spatulas
Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Nonstick 1-Quart Saucepan with Lid
Nordic Ware Bundt Pan

Ingredients

2
2.71 ounce bags of microwaved popcorn, popped and unpopped kernels removed (about 14 cups)
1
16 ounce package marshmallows
1/2
cup
vegetable oil
1
stick
1/2 cup butter
1
cup
salted peanuts
2
cups
M&M’s
1 pound bag

Instructions

Add popped popcorn to a large bowl. Spray bundt pan with non-stick cooking spray. Set both aside.
Melt butter, oil and marshmallows together on the stove, stirring until smooth.
Pour over the top of the popcorn and stir until popcorn is coated.
Mix in the peanuts.
Mix in the M&M’s quickly. The more you mess with them they more they will get melty.
Press into the prepared bundt pan, and let stand for 30 minutes before inverting onto a plate.
Store covered, and enjoy within 2 days.

Notes

I got this recipe from my good friend, Gail. She makes it for all sorts of holidays because it’s so easily customizable.

Nutrition