This holiday season, get popping and try this Christmas tree recipe. Simple to make and sensational to lay your eyes on, these Festive Popcorn Trees just might take the place of your traditional decorated cookies.
10 cups air-popped, unflavored white popcorn
1 10-ounce bag miniature marshmallows
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Decorating sugar, holiday colors
1 tube of white frosting (with decorating tip)
Assorted small colorful candies, such as sprinkles and miniature silver dragees
Place popcorn in large bowl. Place marshmallows and butter in medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir until marshmallows are melted and mixture is smooth. Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract. Pour mixture over popcorn. Toss well to coat popcorn evenly.
Line a baking sheet with foil. Spray hands with nonstick cooking spray, then scoop up about 1 cup of popcorn mixture. Shape mixture into a cone shape, keeping the base flat. This forms the tree. Sprinkle tree with decorating sugar; place tree on baking sheet. Repeat to make the rest of the trees. Pipe frosting on trees to make a garland, then decorate them with colorful candies.
Christmas tree recipe serving suggestion: Place each tree on a sugar or gingersnap cookie and decorate your serving tray with shredded coconut to resemble snow.
Tips:
- It’s important that this recipe starts with unflavored white popcorn for best color and flavor.
- Make your own colored sugar by adding food coloring to sugar, stirring in a bowl or shaking vigorously in a sealed container. Add more food coloring for more intense tones.
Every Christmas tree needs ornaments, right? Try these easy-to-make Chocolate-Dipped Cookie Ornaments.