Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats Recipe

Introduction

This Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn recipe is so easy to make and requires no baking at all! If you love simple peanut butter treats, you might also enjoy this Easy Peanut Butter Pie Recipe or these classic No-Bake Buckeye Candy Recipe options. Perfect for a quick snack or party dessert, this sweet and salty combination is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

This irresistible snack combines the satisfying crunch of popcorn with creamy peanut butter and sweet white chocolate for a treat that’s impossible to resist.

• 8 cups popped popcorn
• 1 cup white chocolate or vanilla melting candy
• 3 tablespoons peanut butter
• 1/2 cup Rice Krispies
• 1/2 cup mini marshmallows

Timing

Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	5 minutes
Total Time	15 minutes

Context: These Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats come together about 20% faster than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Pop the Popcorn

Start by popping 12 cups of plain popcorn. Use an air popper or stovetop method, avoiding pre-buttered or salted varieties. Spread the freshly popped popcorn evenly across two large baking sheets lined with parchment paper.

Step 2 — Prepare the Peanut Butter Coating

In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup creamy peanut butter, ½ cup honey, and ¼ cup unsalted butter. Heat over medium-low, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. Do not boil—this keeps the peanut butter from seizing.

Step 3 — Combine Popcorn and Coating

Pour the warm peanut butter mixture evenly over the popcorn. Use two spatulas to gently toss and fold until every piece is lightly coated. Work quickly before the coating begins to set.

Step 4 — Add Mix-Ins

Sprinkle 1 cup mini marshmallows and ½ cup mini chocolate chips over the peanut butter-coated popcorn. Fold them in gently to distribute evenly without melting the chocolate completely.

Step 5 — Press Into Pan

Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish lined with parchment. Press down firmly with the back of a measuring cup to create an even, compact layer. This helps the Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats hold their shape when cut.

Step 6 — Chill to Set

Refrigerate the pan for at least 1 hour, or until the treats are firm to the touch. Chilling ensures clean cuts and allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.

Step 7 — Slice and Serve

Lift the chilled block from the pan using the parchment paper. Use a sharp knife to cut into squares or bars. For best texture, let the Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information

Calories	280
Protein	6g
Carbohydrates	35g
Fat	14g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	180mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Protein powder instead of peanut butter — Use vanilla or chocolate protein powder mixed with a little oil for a high-protein version with similar creamy texture.
• Almond butter instead of peanut butter — Provides a different nutty flavor profile while being naturally lower in carbohydrates.
• Coconut oil instead of butter — Creates a dairy-free option that still provides the necessary fat for coating the popcorn.
• Rice cereal instead of popcorn — Offers a gluten-free alternative with a lighter crunch and neutral base for the peanut butter coating.
• Dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate — Lowers sugar content while providing richer flavor and antioxidant benefits.
• Sea salt instead of table salt — Use flaky sea salt sparingly for enhanced flavor with lower sodium content per volume.
• Monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar — Provides sweetness without the carbohydrates for a lower-carb version of these Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats.
• Air-popped popcorn instead of oil-popped — Reduces overall fat content while maintaining the popcorn base texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats with a cold glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic sweet-and-salty combination.
• Serve at birthday parties or movie nights—the perfect shareable snack for gatherings.
• Package individual portions in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon for charming party favors or gifts.
• Create a dessert board by arranging these treats alongside fresh fruit, chocolate-dipped pretzels, and mini cookies.
• For a festive touch, drizzle with melted white chocolate and sprinkle with colorful sprinkles before serving.
• Enjoy as an afternoon pick-me-up with a hot cup of coffee or hot chocolate.

These Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats are wonderfully versatile—great for casual snacking or dressed up for special events.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using stale popcorn that’s lost its crunch. Fix: Always use freshly popped popcorn to ensure your Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats maintain the perfect texture.
• Mistake: Overheating the peanut butter and marshmallow mixture, causing it to seize. Fix: Melt ingredients over low heat, stirring constantly until just smooth and combined.
• Mistake: Pouring the hot mixture unevenly over the popcorn. Fix: Drizzle in stages while gently folding to coat every piece without crushing the popcorn.
• Mistake: Skipping the parchment paper when pressing the mixture into the pan. Fix: Line your pan with parchment to prevent sticking and allow for easy removal and cutting.
• Mistake: Rushing the cooling process, resulting in a messy, crumbly batch. Fix: Let your Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats set completely at room temperature before slicing.
• Mistake: Adding too many mix-ins which can overwhelm the peanut butter flavor. Fix: Stick to measured amounts of extras like chocolate chips to keep the balance right.
• Mistake: Using natural peanut butter that separates, creating an oily coating. Fix: Opt for conventional creamy peanut butter for a stable, consistent mixture.
• Mistake: Compacting the mixture too firmly into the pan, making treats hard. Fix: Press gently just until the mixture holds together for a light, airy bite.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 1 week. Refrigeration keeps the peanut butter coating firm.
• Freezer: Use a freezer-safe airtight container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheat: Warm in a 250°F oven for 5–10 minutes until slightly softened, ensuring internal temperature reaches at least 165°F for food safety.

Always cool your Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats completely before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.

Conclusion

We hope you love making these irresistible Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats as much as we do. For more peanut butter delights, try our No-Bake Buckeyes Candy Recipe or Easy Peanut Butter Pie Recipe. Share your creation in the comments and subscribe for more sweet treats!

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FAQs

Can I use a different type of popcorn for Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats?

Yes, you can use plain air-popped or lightly salted popcorn. Avoid pre-buttered or heavily seasoned varieties, as they can overpower the sweet peanut butter flavor of these Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats.

How should I store these popcorn treats to keep them fresh?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer freshness, you can refrigerate them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Can I make these treats without peanut butter?

You can substitute another nut or seed butter, like almond or sunflower butter. However, this will change the classic taste, so the result won’t be true Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats.