Dark Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn

My Dark Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn recipe is a crowd-pleasing, completely addictive holiday snack with only 4 Ingredients! This Christmas popcorn is perfect for watching your favorite Christmas movie or for sharing as an edible gift.  This healthy snack perfectly balances salty, sweet, and minty.  

Peppermint Popcorn Recipe - Christmas Popcorn

This Dark Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn is the ultimate easy Christmas snack and a perfect holiday treat! Made with just four simple ingredients, this festive Peppermint Popcorn recipe combines crunchy popcorn, rich dark chocolate, crushed candy canes, and colorful Christmas sprinkles. It's the perfect combination of sweet, salty, chocolatey, and minty flavors.  Whether you need a fun treat for Christmas movie night, an easy snack for a holiday party, or a homemade Christmas gift, this Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn will be a hit! It's simple to make, looks beautiful, and requires minimal prep.

The Hubs and I have this ongoing argument about the type of popcorn we keep in the house.  I prefer healthier, low-salt, and low-butter kinds.  I could even eat just plain air-popped and be fine! He, of course, likes the movie-theater butter, greasy and salted kind.  I do the grocery shopping around here, so I buy the kind I like, which is better for us, and he complains and reminds me it's not his choice.

He rarely goes to the store, but when he does, he somehow always comes home with a box of what he calls "the good stuff."  It's become a family joke. So when I made a holiday recipe that used my "healthy" popcorn, I was a little concerned he wouldn't like it.   I mean, there is nothing really bad for you in my Dark Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn recipe... but I decided to give it a try anyway. I mean, come on... he had to like it, right????

If you are looking for a festive Christmas Popcorn recipe that's easy to make, you've found it! This homemade Peppermint Popcorn is made with a base of lightly salted popcorn, drizzled with melted dark chocolate, and topped with crushed peppermint candies and Christmas sprinkles. It's almost like Peppermint Bark, but with a light, crunchy popcorn twist. The result is an irresistible holiday snack that tastes just as festive as it looks.  Now the kids love this one too!

Why You'll Love the Dark Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn...

• Only 4 Ingredients: You just need popcorn, dark chocolate chips, crushed peppermint, and Christmas sprinkles.
• Easy to Make: The recipe takes about 10 minutes of hands-on preparation, plus time for the chocolate to set.
• Perfect for Christmas: The red-and-white peppermint pieces and festive sprinkles make this a pretty holiday treat.
• Sweet and Salty: Lightly salted popcorn balances the chocolate and candy cane sweetness.
• Great for Gifting: Package it in festive treat bags, jars, or holiday tins for an easy homemade Christmas gift.
• Easy to Customize: Swap the dark chocolate for white chocolate or add your favorite holiday candies.

Ingredients:

You only need four simple ingredients to make this easy Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn recipe!

• Popcorn: You'll need 10 cups of popped popcorn. I like using lightly salted popcorn because it creates a delicious sweet-and-salty combination. Air-popped, microwave, or stovetop popcorn all work. Just avoid heavily buttered popcorn because it can make the finished treat greasy.
• Dark Chocolate Chips: One cup of dark chocolate chips gives this popcorn its rich chocolate flavor. I love the contrast between dark chocolate and sweet peppermint candy. You can also substitute milk chocolate or white chocolate.  You will need to melt chocolate chips to make the drizzle.  You can also use chocolate melting wafers instead of chips.
• Crushed Peppermint Candy: You'll need ¼ cup of crushed peppermint pieces. Candy canes or traditional peppermint candies both work beautifully. Crush them into small pieces so you get a little peppermint in each bite.
• Christmas Sprinkles: Two teaspoons of colorful Christmas sprinkles add a festive finishing touch. Red, green, and white sprinkles are especially pretty, but you can use whatever holiday sprinkles you have.

How to Make Peppermint Popcorn

Making homemade Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn couldn't be easier! You don't need an oven or any fancy kitchen equipment.

Step 1: Prepare the Popcorn

1. Pop your popcorn the way you like.
2. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or foil. You can also use a silicone baking mat. Spread the popcorn evenly in an even layer across the sheets in a single layer.
3. Remove any unpopped kernels before adding the chocolate.

Step 2: Melt the Dark Chocolate

1. Place the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Microwave for 30 seconds, then remove and stir. Continue heating in short intervals, stirring between each one, until the chocolate is smooth and melted.
3. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can become thick or scorch.

Step 3: Drizzle the Chocolate

1. Using a large spoon or fork, drizzle the melted dark chocolate over the popcorn.
2. Move your spoon back and forth to create thin ribbons of chocolate across the popcorn.
3. Try to distribute the chocolate evenly so that every handful has some of that delicious chocolate flavor.

Step 4: Add the Peppermint and Sprinkles

1. While the chocolate is still warm, sprinkle the crushed peppermint candy and Christmas sprinkles evenly over the popcorn.
2. Adding the toppings before the chocolate sets helps them stick.

Step 5: Let the Chocolate Set

1. Allow the popcorn to sit until the chocolate has completely hardened.
2. If you're in a hurry, you can briefly refrigerate the baking sheets to help the chocolate firm up.
3. Once the chocolate is set, gently break apart any large clusters and transfer the popcorn to a serving bowl.  It's kind of like a Peppermint Bark Popcorn!
4. Enjoy your homemade Christmas Peppermint Popcorn!
5. You can serve it in a bowl like this for movie night OR put it in pretty containers for a great edible Christmas gift.

Tips for the Best Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn

This recipe is incredibly simple, but a few easy tips will help you get the best results.

• Use lightly salted popcorn. A little salt enhances the flavor of the dark chocolate and peppermint. I prefer plain or lightly salted popcorn instead of heavily buttered varieties.
• Remove unpopped kernels. Before spreading the popcorn on your baking sheets, check for hard kernels so they don't end up in your finished treat.
• Don't overheat the chocolate. Microwave the chocolate in short bursts, stirring frequently. Chocolate can burn quickly, so take your time.
• Crush the peppermint into small pieces. Large chunks of candy cane can be difficult to bite into. Small peppermint pieces give you the best texture.
• Add the toppings immediately. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes and Christmas sprinkles onto the popcorn while the chocolate is still melted so they stick.
• Let the chocolate harden completely. This makes the popcorn easier to package, serve, and store without creating a chocolatey mess.

Fun Christmas Popcorn Variations

One of my favorite things about this Peppermint Popcorn recipe is how easy it is to customize!

• White Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn: Swap the dark chocolate chips for white chocolate chips or white chocolate melts to make White Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn. The creamy white chocolate pairs beautifully with the crushed candy canes.  You can also add mini marshmallows.
• Milk Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn: If you prefer a sweeter chocolate flavor, use milk chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate.
• Peppermint Bark Popcorn: For a fun Peppermint Bark-inspired variation, drizzle the popcorn with both dark chocolate and white chocolate. Finish with crushed candy canes for an extra festive treat.
• Grinch Popcorn: Use white chocolate with green candy melts or green confectionery coating, plus festive red sprinkles, for a Grinch-inspired Christmas snack.
• Christmas Candy Popcorn: Add holiday M&M's or mini chocolate candies to make a colorful Christmas Popcorn snack mix.

How to Store Peppermint Popcorn

Store your Dark Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature. It will keep for up to one week, although I think it tastes best within the first day or two when the popcorn is at its crunchiest. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat so the chocolate doesn't melt.

Can You Make Peppermint Popcorn Ahead of Time?

Yes! This Christmas Popcorn is a great make-ahead holiday snack. For the best texture, I recommend making it one or two days before you plan to serve it. Once the chocolate has completely hardened, transfer the popcorn to an airtight container until you're ready to enjoy it.

Can You Freeze Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn?

I don't recommend freezing this recipe for long-term storage. Moisture and condensation can affect the popcorn's crunchy texture. It's so easy to make fresh that I prefer preparing a new batch whenever we want some!

How to Package Peppermint Popcorn for Christmas Gifts

This Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn makes a cute, inexpensive homemade Christmas gift! The festive red-and-white peppermint pieces and colorful sprinkles make it especially pretty in clear containers. Make sure the chocolate is completely hardened before packaging your popcorn. For the freshest results, package it shortly before gifting and encourage recipients to enjoy it within a few days.

Here are a few of my favorite ways to gift it:

• Clear Treat Bags: Fill food-safe cellophane bags with popcorn and tie them with red or green ribbon.
• Christmas Tins: Package the popcorn in decorative holiday tins for teachers, neighbors, or friends.
• Mason Jars: Use wide-mouth jars for a cute presentation.
• Holiday Popcorn Boxes: Fill festive paper popcorn boxes for Christmas movie nights or holiday parties.

When to Serve Christmas Peppermint Popcorn

This festive snack is perfect for so many holiday occasions! It's especially fun for Christmas movie night with the family, holiday parties, cookie exchanges, school celebrations, and homemade Christmas gift baskets. You could even make a big bowl to enjoy while decorating the Christmas tree! I also love the idea of including this Peppermint Popcorn on a holiday dessert table alongside Christmas cookies, fudge, and other easy treats.

Peppermint Popcorn FAQs

What kind of popcorn is best for chocolate popcorn?

Plain or lightly salted popcorn kernels work best for Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn. Air-popped, stovetop, and lightly salted microwave popcorn are all good options. Avoid heavily buttered popcorn for the best texture.

Can I use candy canes instead of peppermint candies?

Yes! Crushed candy canes are perfect for this recipe. Just crush them into small, bite-sized pieces before sprinkling them over the melted chocolate.

Can I make peppermint popcorn without dark chocolate?

Absolutely! You can substitute white chocolate or milk chocolate for the dark chocolate chips. White Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn is another delicious Christmas variation.

How do you keep chocolate popcorn from getting soggy?

Start with freshly popped, completely cooled popcorn and avoid adding moisture. Allow the melted chocolate to harden fully before transferring the popcorn to an airtight container. Store it in a cool, dry place.

How long does homemade peppermint popcorn last?

You can store Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, but it tastes best within the first few days.

Is peppermint popcorn a good homemade Christmas gift?

Yes! Peppermint Popcorn is a wonderful homemade Christmas gift because it's easy to make, uses inexpensive ingredients, and looks beautiful packaged in festive treat bags or holiday t

The BEST Christmas Popcorn & Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn!

This easy Dark Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn is one of those Christmas treats that looks fancy but is surprisingly simple to make. With only four ingredients, a delicious sweet-and-salty crunch, and plenty of festive peppermint flavor, it's perfect for sharing with friends and family throughout the holiday season.  I made this recipe, and now the whole family reaches for those chocolaty, sweet-and-salty bites.

Whether you're making it for Christmas movie night, a holiday party, or an edible gift, I hope you enjoy this festive Peppermint Popcorn as much as we do!  I'll say this festive, healthy treat was a big success.

Other Healthy Peppermint Recipes to Love:

• Healthy Chocolate Peppermint Smoothie
• Dark Chocolate Peppermint Nice Cream
• Peppermint Fudge No Bake Energy Bites
• Nutella and Peppermint Freezer Fudge
• Skinny Peppermint White Hot Chocolate

Other Healthy Popcorn Recipes to Love:

• Chunky Monkey Popcorn
• Birthday Popcorn
• Patriotic Popcorn
• Easter Popcorn

If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear what you think! Leave a comment and a star rating ★ below. Make sure to follow me on Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook too!

Dark Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn

Julie Wunder

My Dark Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn recipe is a crowd-pleasing and completely addictive holiday snack that's perfect for watching your favorite Christmas movie.  This Christmas Popcorn is the perfect combination of salty, sweet, and minty.  Enjoy it with your family or share it as an edible gift!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Setting time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Holiday, Snack

Cuisine American, Snack

Servings 6 servings

Calories 233 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 10 cups popped popcorn, about 1 microwave bag
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips
• ¼ cup crushed peppermint pieces
• 2 teaspoons Christmas sprinkles

Instructions

 

• Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper or foil. Spread popcorn in a single layer.
• Put the chocolate chips in a microwave safe container and microwave for 30 seconds. Pull out and stir. Microwave for another 30 seconds. Pull out and stir again. The chocolate should be melted at this point. If it's not, microwave for another 10 seconds. Repeat until it's soft and drizzly.
• Using a large spoon, drizzle the chocolate over the popcorn using fast motions creating thin lines of chocolate.
• While the chocolate is still warm, sprinkle the peppermint and sprinkles over the top.
• Allow chocolate to re-harden before moving. You can pop the trays in the freezer to speed up the process.

Notes

Make sure your peppermint is crushed into small enough pieces to eat in one bite.

You can also use milk or white chocolate to make this White Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn.

Store the peppermint popcorn in an airtight container on the counter for up to a week although it is best enjoyed within a day or two of making it.

Nutrition

Calories: 233kcalCarbohydrates: 31gProtein: 5gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 1mgSodium: 34mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 4gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 36IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 91mgIron: 1mg

Keyword Peppermint Popcorn

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