Festive White Chocolate Christmas Popcorn Mix

I don’t know about you, but once the holidays roll around, I’m all about the fun, easy snacks that bring everyone together. This festive white chocolate Christmas popcorn mix is one of those recipes that disappears almost as soon as it hits the table. It’s got that perfect mix of sweet and salty, with colorful bits of M&Ms and sprinkles that make it look like Christmas cheer in a bowl.

I love making a big batch of this when we’re watching Christmas movies or wrapping presents. It’s so quick to throw together, and the kitchen smells amazing while the chocolate sets. Plus, the mix of popcorn, pretzels, and candy gives it a little bit of everything, so there’s something in there for everyone to love. It’s one of those recipes that looks so festive with almost no effort at all.

It also makes the cutest edible gift! I like to scoop some into clear cellophane bags, tie them with a ribbon, and add a little tag. It’s such an easy way to spread a bit of holiday cheer without spending hours baking. Share it with friends, pack it for a Christmas party, or keep it all to yourself, this popcorn mix is the kind of treat that’ll keep you coming back for another handful.

Ingredients

• 6 cups popcorn (already popped): I like using freshly popped popcorn so it’s light, crisp, and ready to soak up all that sweet chocolate.

• ½ cup white candy wafers: These melt beautifully and coat everything with a creamy layer of sweetness.

• ¼ cup M&Ms (green and red): They add that fun pop of color and a little crunch that makes the mix extra festive.

• 5 oz pretzels: The salty crunch of the pretzels balances out the sweetness perfectly.

• ½ tsp red sprinkles: A sprinkle of red gives it that cheerful Christmas sparkle.

• ½ tsp green sprinkles: The green ties everything together and makes the mix look so bright and merry.

Recipe Instructions

You can find a printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

1. Spread the popped popcorn evenly over a baking tray.

2. Break up half of the pretzels and scatter both the broken pieces and the whole pretzels on top of the popcorn.

3. Sprinkle the M&Ms evenly over the popcorn mixture.

4. Melt the candy wafers in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.

5. Drizzle the melted candy over the popcorn mixture.

6. Add sprinkles on top, then gently toss everything together so the coating helps the ingredients stick.

Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Christmas Popcorn

• Make sure your popcorn is completely cooled before adding the melted chocolate so it doesn’t get soggy.

• If you don’t have a microwave, you can melt the candy wafers using a double boiler for better control.

• Spread everything out on a large baking tray before drizzling the chocolate so it coats evenly.

• Toss the mix gently while the chocolate is still warm to help all the goodies stick together.

• Let it sit at room temperature until fully set before breaking it apart or packaging it up.

• For a cleaner look, line your tray with parchment paper so nothing sticks to the pan.

• Add the sprinkles right after drizzling the chocolate so they actually stick instead of sliding off.

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep the popcorn fresh and crunchy.

Serving

• I love pouring this popcorn mix into a big festive bowl and letting everyone grab handfuls while we watch Christmas movies.

• It also looks adorable served in little paper cups or holiday-themed bags for parties.

• You can sprinkle a little extra chocolate or crushed candy cane on top just before serving for an extra festive touch.

• For movie nights, I like to mix in a few extra pretzels or candies right before serving so it feels fresh and crunchy.

• This is also a fun snack to set out on a dessert table alongside cookies and hot cocoa.

Storing

• Once the popcorn mix has completely set, I like to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh and crunchy.

• It stays tasty for up to a week at room temperature, so it’s great for making ahead of parties or gifting.

• Keep it in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight so the chocolate doesn’t melt.

• If you’re packing it up for gifts, make sure the chocolate has fully hardened before sealing the bags.

• I don’t recommend refrigerating it, as that can make the popcorn lose its crisp texture.

FAQs

Can I use microwave popcorn for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure it’s plain or lightly salted. Avoid using butter-flavored popcorn since it can clash with the sweetness of the chocolate.

What’s the best way to melt the candy wafers?
I usually melt them in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each until smooth. If you prefer, you can use a double boiler for more control.

Can I add other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Mini marshmallows, crushed candy canes, or even small pretzel bites all work perfectly. Just don’t overload it or the chocolate won’t hold everything together.

How far in advance can I make this popcorn mix?
You can make it up to a week ahead of time if stored in an airtight container. It’s a great make-ahead treat for busy holiday weeks.

Can I use white chocolate chips instead of candy wafers?
Yes, but white chocolate chips can be a little trickier to melt smoothly. If you use them, add a teaspoon of coconut oil or shortening to help with texture.