By Family Features | Contributor
Get ready to celebrate the Fourth of July with a splash of the red, white, and blue! As the celebrations kick off with fireworks and festivities, don’t forget to delight your guests with one of America’s favorite snacks: popcorn.
Whether you plan to enjoy the festivities poolside, within the comfort of your home, or while taking in a dazzling firework display against the night sky, offering delicious treats that embody the spirit of the holiday is an excellent way to express your patriotic enthusiasm.
One fantastic option is Peanut Butter Cups, a simple summer treat made with common ingredients. The preparation is straightforward: just melt together peanut butter, butter, and marshmallows, then mix in popcorn, shredded wheat, peanuts, and raisins. Portion the mixture into paper liners for easy serving, and consider using red, white, and blue liners or topping each cup with miniature flag toothpicks for an extra festive touch.
Spice up this year’s gathering with Cinnamon Candy Poppers, a nostalgic nod to the classic firecrackers that are a staple at any Fourth of July celebration. These delightful, gooey treats will add a fun spark to your snack table.
Peanut Butter Cups
Yield: 24 cups
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup butter or margarine
1 package (10 1/2 ounces) miniature marshmallows
6 cups freshly popped popcorn
6 cups spoon-size shredded wheat
1 cup dry roasted peanuts
1 cup raisins
Preheat your oven to 250°F.
In a large microwavable bowl, combine peanut butter and butter. Heat on high for 1 minute until melted.
Add marshmallows and microwave on high for an additional minute, or until they puff; stir well.
Incorporate the popcorn, shredded wheat, peanuts, and raisins; stir gently to combine.
Place paper liners into two 12-cup muffin tins. Distribute the mixture evenly among the liners.
Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and store these delightful “cups” in an airtight container.
Cinnamon Candy Poppers
Yield: 24 balls
Nonstick cooking spray
3 quarts popped popcorn
4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter or margarine
3 cups miniature marshmallows
1/2 cup cinnamon-flavored candies
Red and blue confection stars
Red licorice string
Lay out a large sheet of plastic wrap on a flat surface and coat it with nonstick cooking spray.
Coat a large mixing bowl with nonstick cooking spray and pour the popcorn into it.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat, then stir in marshmallows until they are smooth and melted. Pour this mixture over the popcorn, and add the cinnamon candies, mixing until everything is evenly coated.
Spray your hands with nonstick cooking spray and form the mixture into 24 balls. Gently press the red and blue stars onto each ball, and top each one with a piece of licorice string.
For more popcorn recipes to elevate your summer gatherings, visit Popcorn.org.
