Marshmallow Popcorn Christmas Tree*

This marshmallow popcorn Christmas tree is the centerpiece project for the kids who like to help in the kitchen. Twelve cups of popped popcorn get coated in a sticky, green-tinted marshmallow glue, then shaped into a cone tree on the counter and decorated with candy ornaments.

The lime jello powder is the secret ingredient that does triple duty: it adds bright color, a hit of fruity flavor that complements the marshmallows, and a touch of acid that keeps the sweet from going completely cloying. Adding extra green food coloring deepens the tree-green hue.

The key technique is moving fast. Once the marshmallow mixture coats the popcorn, you have about 2 minutes before it sets up too firm to shape. Wet hands are the trick. Damp palms keep the sticky popcorn from glomming onto your skin while you press it into a cone.

Decorate with M&Ms, gumdrops, Red Hots, mini chocolate chips, or any small candies for ornaments. A star or yellow gumdrop on top finishes the tree.

Kitchen Tips

• Use freshly popped popcorn, not microwave bag popcorn. Pre-flavored popcorn introduces salt and butter that conflict with the sweet coating.
• Sift through the popcorn to remove any unpopped kernels before mixing. Hidden hard kernels are tooth-breakers in the finished tree.
• Wet your hands generously with cold water. Lukewarm water doesn’t keep the popcorn from sticking.
• Work on parchment paper or a buttered surface. The tree releases cleanly without crumbling.

Variations

• Use red jello and red food coloring for a winterberry alternative or for Christmas red.
• Make multiple smaller trees in muffin liners for individual party favors.
• Use raspberry jello for a pink Easter version, or orange for Halloween.