4th of July Popcorn is a sweet and salty party snack with popcorn, pretzels, M&Ms, and white chocolate. Make it for your next summer party!
author’s note
Gone Before the First Sparkler!
Every year, I make a big batch of this popcorn mix for fireworks night—and it disappears fast. It’s straightforward to prep ahead, fun to customize, and makes just the right balance of sweet and salty. Whether we’re packing it in treat bags or setting it out in a big bowl, it’s always the first thing gone!
It is satisfying to that it’s simple enough to throw together during the chaos of party prep but still feels festive and special.
Here’s What You Need:
| Ingredient | Let’s Chat About It |
|---|---|
| Popcorn | You can buy pre-popped or pop your own with plain, lightly salted kernels. A popcorn machine or stovetop method also works, just be sure to remove any un-popped kernels before adding the other ingredients. |
| Mini pretzels | Break them in half so they mix in better and are easier to eat. |
| Red, white, and blue M&M’s | Regular M&M’s work too, just pick out the red and blue ones if needed! |
| White chocolate chips & oil | Melt slowly and stir often so the chocolate stays smooth in this 4th of July Popcorn. |
| Sprinkles & skippable chocolate drizzle | Add sprinkles right away so they stick; drizzle chocolate after spreading the mix on the pan. |
Quick Tip
Don’t let unpopped kernels ruin your treat! Put popcorn in a bowl, cover with a cooling rack, turn it upside down, and shake over a plate. The kernels will fall out!
chelsea’s recipe tips
How To Make 4th of July Popcorn (Tips)
- Use fresh popcorn: Pop it right before making for the best flavor and texture.
- Use a big bowl: It makes mixing easier and less messy.
- Line the pan: Parchment paper, foil, or a nonstick mat keeps it from sticking.
- Melt slowly: Microwave in short bursts, stirring often, until smooth.
- Choose good chocolate: Higher quality white chocolate melts smoother and tastes better.
Storage
Leftover 4th of July Popcorn?
Enjoy fresh within a day or two. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
For longer storage, freeze to keep it crisp. It’s satisfying right out of the freezer!
More Festive 4th Of July Treats:
Desserts
4th of July Bark Recipe
Quick And straightforward
4th of July Snack Mix
Cookies
No Bake Cookies Recipe
Desserts
Rice Krispie Treats RecipeIngredients
- 8 cups plain popped popcorn (see note 1)
- 2 cups mini pretzel twists (broken in half)
- 1-1/3 cups red, white, and blue M&M’s (1 (10-ounce) bag, see note 2)
- 2 cups white chocolate chips (an 11 to 12-ounce bag will work)
- 1-1/2 teaspoons vegetable oil (or canola oil)
- 2 tablespoons red, white, and blue sprinkles (skippable)
- skippable chocolate drizzle (1/2 cup milk or semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1/2 teaspoon vegetable oil)
Method
- Line a large sheet pan with foil, parchment paper, or a silicone liner. keep nearby.
- In a large bowl, add the popped popcorn, ensuring no kernels get in (see note 3). Break the pretzels in half and add them to the bowl. Add the M&M’s.
- Add white chocolate chips and oil to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Be careful not to burn the chocolate. Pour the melted chocolate over the popcorn mix and quickly toss to coat everything evenly.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on the prepared pan. Immediately sprinkle with sprinkles, if using.
- skippable Milk Chocolate Drizzle: If desired, melt the milk chocolate chips with oil in a microwave-safe bowl using 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth. move to a small resealable plastic bag, snip the tip, and drizzle over the popcorn.
- Let the popcorn harden at room temperature or in the fridge until solid. Once hardened, break into pieces. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. For the best flavor, eat within 1–2 days.
