(Family Features) During a holiday season that may not quite feel the same for many families, you can add a magic touch to at-home festivities with activities and treats that get everyone involved. Creating decorative holiday sweets allows little ones and grown-ups alike to take part in the fun, and the end result is delicious desserts for all to enjoy.
Start with a main ingredient like whole-grain, freshly popped popcorn. At 30 calories a cup, it’s naturally low in fat, non-GMO and gluten-free for a nutritious alternative to traditional holiday indulgences. It’s a clever way to create artsy representations of the season at hand that celebrate festive flavors like peppermint, coconut, chocolate and other sweet eats.
Discover more decorative dessert recipes at popcorn.org.
Coconut Popcorn Snowballs
Yield: 8 balls (4 inches)
2 cups shredded or flaked sweetened coconut
nonstick cooking spray
3 quarts popped popcorn
4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter or margarine
3 cups miniature marshmallows
1 teaspoon coconut or vanilla extract
8 candy canes or candy cane sticks (about 3-4 inches)
Place large sheet wax or parchment paper over work surface. Spread coconut on paper.
Spray large mixing bowl lightly with nonstick cooking spray and place popcorn inside.
In medium saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in marshmallows until melted and mixture is smooth. Pour over popcorn and mix well until coated.
Spray hands with cooking spray and press mixture firmly to form into balls. Place balls on coconut; roll and press coconut to coat. While holding popcorn balls, gently press candy cane into each ball.
Serve immediately or wrap individually in plastic wrap for storage.
