If there’s one snack that instantly brings out the holiday cheer and saves your sanity during the busiest time of year, it’s Grinch Popcorn Mix. This bright green, sweet-and-salty treat is playful, quick, and downright fun—kind of like the Grinch himself, but way more lovable. Whether you’re juggling school parties, work deadlines, or just trying to survive December without living on cookies alone, this recipe is here to help.
I have a soft spot for easy holiday snacks like this one. This Grinch Popcorn Mix has become a seasonal staple in my kitchen because it’s fast, festive, and impossible not to smile while making it. Plus, it’s a hit with kids and adults—which, during the holidays, feels like winning the lottery.
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Why You’ll Love This Grinch Popcorn Mix
Let’s be honest—holiday cooking can get overwhelming. Between gift shopping and endless to-do lists, no one wants a complicated recipe with a million steps. That’s where Grinch Popcorn Mix shines.
- It takes less than 15 minutes from start to finish
- No oven required (yes, please)
- Uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients
- Perfect for parties, movie nights, or edible gifts
And the best part? This snack looks like you tried way harder than you actually did. I won’t tell if you don’t.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make this cheerful holiday snack:
- 8 cups popped popcorn
- 1 cup green candy melts
- 1/2 cup red and green M&Ms
- 1/4 cup holiday sprinkles
That’s it. Four ingredients. No fancy tools. No stress.
Quick tip: Air-popped popcorn works great, but lightly salted popcorn adds that sweet-and-salty contrast everyone loves.
How to Make Grinch Popcorn Mix (Step-by-Step)
This recipe is wonderfully simple, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute holiday prep.
Step 1: Pop the Popcorn
Start by popping your popcorn and placing it in a large bowl. You want plenty of space to toss everything together without popcorn flying across the kitchen (been there).
Remove any unpopped kernels—your teeth will thank you later.
Step 2: Melt the Green Candy
Melt the green candy melts according to the package directions. Usually, that means microwaving in short bursts and stirring in between.
Don’t rush this step. Candy melts like patience and gentle heat.
Step 3: Drizzle and Toss
Drizzle the melted green candy over the popcorn. Use a spatula or large spoon to gently toss until most of the popcorn is coated.
It doesn’t have to be perfect. A little unevenness adds charm—kind of like the Grinch before his heart grew three sizes.
Step 4: Add the Fun Stuff
While the candy coating is still warm, stir in the red and green M&Ms. Sprinkle the holiday sprinkles over the top.
Give it one last gentle toss, then spread the popcorn out on parchment paper to cool and set.
Step 5: Let It Set
Allow the popcorn to cool for about 10 minutes. Once the candy hardens, break it into clusters and try not to eat half of it before serving.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Grinch Popcorn Mix
- Work quickly: Candy melts set fast, so have your M&Ms and sprinkles ready to go.
- Don’t overmix: Too much stirring can break the popcorn into crumbs. Gentle is the name of the game.
- Customize the colors: More green makes it extra Grinchy; more red adds festive contrast.
- Mess happens: If candy drips on the counter, wait for it to harden, then pop it right off. Easy cleanup win.
And if your popcorn looks a little messy? Congratulations—you did it right.
A Little Story from My Kitchen
The first time I made Grinch Popcorn Mix, it was supposed to be “just a small batch” for a holiday movie night. My kids hovered around the counter like tiny snack detectives, sneaking handfuls every time I turned around.
By the time the movie started, half the bowl was gone. Now it’s become our unofficial signal that the holidays have officially started. The moment that green popcorn hits the table, everyone knows it’s time to slow down, laugh a little, and enjoy the season.

Fun Ways to Serve This Holiday Snack
- Serve it in festive bowls for parties
- Package it in clear treat bags with ribbon for gifts
- Add it to a holiday dessert table
- Enjoy it during movie night with hot cocoa
It’s one of those snacks that feels special without being complicated—and during December, that’s gold.
FAQs About Grinch Popcorn Mix
Can I make Grinch Popcorn Mix ahead of time?
Yes! You can make it up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
Can I use regular chocolate instead of candy melts?
Candy melts work best for color and coating, but white chocolate with green food coloring can work in a pinch.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in a sealed container on the counter. Avoid the fridge, as moisture can make the popcorn soggy.
Can I add other candies?
Absolutely. Mini marshmallows or heart-shaped sprinkles are fun additions—especially if you’re leaning into the Grinch theme.
Let’s Make the Holidays a Little Sweeter
At the end of the day, Grinch Popcorn Mix is more than just a snack—it’s a reminder that holiday magic doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few ingredients and a little green candy drizzle, you can create something festive, fun, and totally irresistible.
So whether you’re hosting a crowd, packing treats for school, or just craving something cheerful after a long day, this Grinch Popcorn Mix has your back. From my kitchen to yours, I hope it brings a little joy, a little laughter, and maybe even grows your heart three sizes this season.
Happy snacking,
Make Your Holiday Snack Table Even More Fun
If you loved this Grinch Popcorn Mix, don’t stop the fun here—turn it into a full holiday snack moment with a few more festive favorites from the blog. These treats pair perfectly with that sweet-and-crunchy popcorn and are great for parties, movie nights, or cozy family evenings:
- Add extra Grinchy cheer with No-Bake Grinch Oreo Truffles — soft, chocolatey, and so easy they’re perfect for little helping hands.
- Balance the crunch with something creamy like Grinch Mini Cheesecakes — bite-sized, festive, and always a crowd favorite.
- For that sweet-and-salty combo everyone loves, serve this popcorn alongside Christmas Pretzel Rods — simple, colorful, and made for sharing.
- And for peak holiday vibes, enjoy your snack mix with a cozy mug of Grinch Hot Chocolate — warm, comforting, and pure Christmas magic.
If you made this Grinch Popcorn Mix, I’d love to know how it turned out .
Please take a moment to leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ star rating and a quick review below—your feedback helps other readers and truly means so much to me!
Grinch Popcorn Mix
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 cups 1x
Description
Grinch Popcorn Mix is a fun, festive holiday snack made with fluffy popcorn coated in green candy melts, then finished with red and green M&Ms and sprinkles. It’s quick, no-bake, and perfect for Christmas parties, movie nights, and kids’ treats.
Ingredients
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8 cups popped popcorn
-
1 cup green candy melts
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½ cup red and green M&Ms
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¼ cup holiday sprinkles
Instructions
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Place the popped popcorn into a large mixing bowl, removing any unpopped kernels.
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Melt the green candy melts according to package instructions until smooth.
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Drizzle the melted candy over the popcorn and gently toss until evenly coated.
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Add the red and green M&Ms and sprinkle the holiday sprinkles on top.
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Spread the popcorn onto parchment paper and let it set for about 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Work quickly once the candy melts are poured, as they set fast.
Air-popped or lightly salted popcorn works best.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Snack, Appetizer
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg