Hey friends!
The holiday season is here, and I’m so excited to share a fun recipe with you!
Today, we’re making Christmas Crunch.
It’s a sweet, crunchy treat that’s perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Trust me, it’s super easy to whip up, and everyone will love it!
Let’s dive into the holiday spirit and get crunching!
Ingredient Substitutions
For the white chocolate pieces, dark or milk chocolate can be used as alternatives, offering different flavor profiles and potential health benefits. These substitutions maintain the recipe’s structure while accommodating various chocolate preferences. Carob chips are a caffeine-free option that can replace chocolate entirely, though they have a distinct taste.
Holiday-themed M&Ms can be substituted with dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots for a healthier, fruit-based option. These alternatives provide natural sweetness and chewy texture, while also offering additional nutrients. For a nut-based crunch, chopped almonds or pecans can be used instead.
Pretzel twists can be replaced with rice crackers or corn chips for a gluten-free version of the recipe. These substitutions maintain the desired crunch and salty element. For a healthier alternative, consider using roasted chickpeas, which provide extra protein and fiber while still offering a satisfying crunch. Adjust the salt content as needed when using these alternatives.
| Preparation Time | 15-20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Total Time | 25-35 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 800-900
- Protein: 10-15 g
- Fat: 30-40 g
- Carbohydrates: 120-130 g
Ingredients
- 6 cups popped corn
- ½ cup white chocolate pieces (4 ounces – can use white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate bar)
- ¼ cup holiday-themed m&ms (2 ounces)
- 1.5 ounces pretzel twists
- ½ teaspoon red decorating sprinkles (add more if desired)
- ½ teaspoon green decorating sprinkles
- Pinch of salt (optional for a sweet and salty taste)
- ¼ cup unpopped corn kernels (2 ounces)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
Step 1: Prepare the Popcorn
If you are making homemade popcorn, place a medium-sized saucepan over medium-high heat and add the oil.
Test the oil by adding a few kernels of corn into the pot.
Once they start popping, pour in the rest of the popcorn kernels.
Cover the pan with a lid and gently shake it over the burner while the corn is popping.
For crispier popcorn, keep the lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape.
When popping slows, remove the pan from heat and immediately pour the popcorn into a large pan.
Remove any unpopped kernels.
If using store-bought or microwave popcorn, pour it directly into a large pan suitable for mixing.
Step 2: Assemble the Snack Mix
Add a pinch of salt over your popcorn if you enjoy a sweet and salty combination.
Break up half of the pretzels and scatter them on top of the popcorn.
Next, add the M&M’s over the pretzels to enhance the flavor with some chocolatey sweetness.
Step 3: Melt and Drizzle the Chocolate
Place the candy melts in a small bowl and melt them in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring each time until smooth.
Using a spoon, drizzle the melted chocolate over the popcorn mixture.
For easier mixing, use two spoons to gently toss everything together, ensuring an even coating of chocolate.
Add sprinkles for a festive touch and mix again to combine.
Step 4: Set and Store
Allow the popcorn to sit for about an hour until the white chocolate hardens.
If you prefer a quicker method, place the mixture in the fridge for about 15 minutes.
Once the chocolate has set, your holiday popcorn is ready to enjoy.
Be sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to three days.
