No Bake Popcorn Cake Recipe

Introduction

This Easy No-Bake Popcorn Cake is the perfect quick treat for busy days and spontaneous gatherings. Ready in just 15 minutes, it combines sweet and salty flavors with a delightful crunch. For more simple no-bake ideas, try this Easy Scarecrow Crunch Halloween Snack Mix Recipe or festive Halloween Fudge Recipe.

Ingredients

This irresistible No Bake Popcorn Cake combines sweet, salty, and crunchy textures in one easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any gathering.

• 16 cups popped popcorn (about 2 bags microwave popcorn, unpopped kernels removed)
• 16 oz marshmallows
• 1/2 cup butter
• 2 cups M&M’s
• 1 cup broken pretzel sticks
• 1 cup salted peanuts
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	0 minutes
Total Time	15 minutes

Context: This No Bake Popcorn Cake is about 20% faster than similar recipes since it requires no oven time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Ingredients and Pan

Gather 10 cups popped popcorn, 4 cups mini marshmallows, 1/2 cup butter, and your choice of mix-ins like M&M’s or peanuts. Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or Bundt pan thoroughly with non-stick spray to ensure easy removal later.

Step 2 — Melt the Marshmallow Mixture

Combine the butter and mini marshmallows in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 1–2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until the mixture is completely smooth and pourable. The marshmallows should be fully melted with no lumps.

Step 3 — Combine Popcorn and Marshmallow

Pour the melted marshmallow mixture over the popcorn in a very large bowl. Working quickly while the marshmallow is warm, use a spatula to gently fold until every piece of popcorn is evenly coated. Be careful not to crush the popcorn during mixing.

Step 4 — Add Mix-Ins

Fold in your additional ingredients like candy or nuts at this stage. Stir just enough to distribute them evenly throughout the No Bake Popcorn Cake mixture. Adding mix-ins after coating helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom.

Step 5 — Press Into Pan

Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan. Use lightly greased hands or the back of a spoon to press the popcorn mixture firmly and evenly into the pan. Apply even pressure to create a compact cake that will hold its shape when sliced.

Step 6 — Chill to Set

Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until completely firm. The No Bake Popcorn Cake is ready when it holds together firmly when pressed and doesn’t feel sticky to the touch.

Step 7 — Remove and Slice

Run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the cake. If using a Bundt pan, invert it onto a serving plate. For rectangular pans, lift out the entire block. Use a sharp knife to slice into squares or wedges.

Step 8 — Serve and Store

Serve your No Bake Popcorn Cake immediately at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Nutritional Information

Calories	210
Protein	3g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fat	10g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	180mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Protein popcorn — Adds extra protein while maintaining the classic popcorn texture.
• Lower-carb sweetener — Use monk fruit or erythritol instead of marshmallows for a sugar-free option.
• Dairy-free butter — Swap regular butter for coconut oil or plant-based butter to make it dairy-free.
• Gluten-free cereal — Replace any cereal with certified gluten-free versions to keep it celiac-friendly.
• Low-sodium popcorn — Use air-popped popcorn with no added salt to reduce sodium content.
• Nut butter binder — Substitute marshmallows with almond or peanut butter for a protein-rich, no-sugar binder.
• Seed mix-ins — Add pumpkin or sunflower seeds instead of nuts for a nutrient-dense, allergy-friendly crunch.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this No Bake Popcorn Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of textures and temperatures.
• Serve as a fun, shareable centerpiece at birthday parties or casual movie nights.
• Drizzle with melted chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra decadent presentation.
• Cut into small squares for a perfect, portable treat at picnics or potlucks.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of colorful sprinkles or crushed candy pieces to match a holiday or theme.
• Enjoy with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee to balance the sweetness.

This No Bake Popcorn Cake is incredibly versatile and can be adapted for any celebration or casual snack time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using stale popcorn that lacks crispness. Fix: Always use freshly popped popcorn for the best texture and structural integrity.
• Mistake: Overheating the marshmallow mixture, causing it to become hard and chewy. Fix: Melt marshmallows and butter over low heat, stirring just until smooth.
• Mistake: Not coating all popcorn evenly with the marshmallow mixture. Fix: Gently fold the mixture in a large bowl until every piece is lightly coated.
• Mistake: Pressing the mixture too firmly into the pan, creating a dense brick. Fix: Lightly press to shape the cake while keeping it airy and easy to bite.
• Mistake: Adding mix-ins like M&Ms while the marshmallow is too hot, causing them to melt. Fix: Let the marshmallow base cool slightly before folding in candies or chocolate chips.
• Mistake: Skipping the greasing step for your pan or mold. Fix: Lightly grease your pan with butter or cooking spray for easy, clean removal.
• Mistake: Not allowing the No Bake Popcorn Cake to set fully before slicing. Fix: Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours to firm up properly.
• Mistake: Using overly large or heavy add-ins that make the cake fall apart. Fix: Chop larger ingredients like nuts or pretzels into small, bite-sized pieces.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Refrigerate promptly to keep ingredients fresh and safe below 40°F.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or use a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheat: This No Bake Popcorn Cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. Avoid reheating to maintain texture.

Always cool your No Bake Popcorn Cake completely before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.

Conclusion

This No Bake Popcorn Cake is the perfect easy dessert for any occasion. If you love no-bake treats, try our No-Bake Candy Cane Pie Recipe next! We hope you enjoy making this recipe—please leave a comment with your thoughts and subscribe for more delicious ideas.

Print

FAQs

Can I make this No Bake Popcorn Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this No Bake Popcorn Cake a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature to keep the popcorn crisp. It holds its shape well, making it perfect for planning ahead.

What can I use instead of marshmallows in this recipe?

If you prefer not to use marshmallows, try melted white chocolate or a thick caramel sauce as a binder. These alternatives will still help set your No Bake Popcorn Cake while adding a different flavor profile.

How do I prevent the popcorn from getting soggy?

Ensure all mix-ins like candies are completely dry and cool before combining them. Press the mixture firmly into the pan so it sets properly without excess moisture. This keeps your No Bake Popcorn Cake delightfully crisp.