Introduction

This recipe for Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats creates the ultimate peanut butter popcorn in just five minutes. It’s a no-bake snack that combines sweet and salty flavors for an irresistible treat. If you love quick peanut butter desserts, you might also enjoy this Easy Peanut Butter Pie Recipe or these classic No-Bake Buckeye Candy Recipe.

Ingredients

This irresistible snack combines the satisfying crunch of popcorn with creamy peanut butter and sweet chocolate for a truly addictive treat.

• 8 cups popped popcorn
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 3 tablespoons peanut butter
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 3/4 cup Rice Krispies cereal
• 1/4 cup milk chocolate chips

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	5 minutes
Total Time	20 minutes

Context: These Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats come together about 25% faster than similar recipes, making them perfect for last-minute cravings or spontaneous gatherings.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Popcorn

Start with 12 cups of freshly popped popcorn, either air-popped or prepared from kernels. Make sure to remove any unpopped kernels to prevent dental mishaps. Spread the popcorn in a single layer on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2 — Create the Peanut Butter Coating

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, ½ cup of honey, and ¼ cup of unsalted butter. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. For best results, use a candy thermometer to ensure the temperature stays below 250°F to prevent scorching.

Step 3 — Combine Coating and Popcorn

Pour the warm peanut butter mixture evenly over the prepared popcorn. Use a silicone spatula to gently fold and coat every piece, working quickly before the coating begins to set. Tip: Work in batches if your bowl isn’t large enough to accommodate all the popcorn at once for thorough coating.

Step 4 — Add Mix-Ins

While the popcorn is still sticky, sprinkle in 1 cup of mini marshmallows, ½ cup of chocolate chips, and ¼ cup of chopped peanuts. Fold gently to distribute these additions throughout your Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats without crushing the popcorn.

Step 5 — Press Into Pan

Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your hands to press the mixture firmly into an even layer. Apply steady pressure to help the treats hold their shape when cut.

Step 6 — Chill to Set

Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until the treats are completely firm. The peanut butter coating should no longer feel sticky to the touch. For faster setting, you can place them in the freezer for 20-30 minutes.

Step 7 — Cut Into Pieces

Remove the chilled slab from the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut into 2-inch squares or rectangles. For clean cuts, wipe the knife blade between slices if the treats begin to stick.

Step 8 — Serve and Store

Arrange your Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats on a serving platter. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks for longer freshness.

Nutritional Information

Calories	220
Protein	5g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fat	10g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	150mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Protein Powder Peanut Butter — Mix powdered peanut butter with vanilla or chocolate protein powder for a higher-protein coating with reduced fat
• Monk Fruit Sweetener — Replace regular marshmallows with sugar-free varieties sweetened with monk fruit to lower carbohydrate content
• Coconut Oil Butter Substitute — Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version that adds subtle tropical notes
• Rice Cereal Blend — Combine popcorn with gluten-free rice cereal for added crunch while maintaining celiac-friendly status
• Dark Chocolate Drizzle — Opt for sugar-free dark chocolate instead of candy melts to reduce sugar while enhancing antioxidant content
• Sea Salt Reduction — Cut added salt by half and use flaky sea salt as finishing garnish for lower sodium with intensified flavor
• Nut-Free SunButter — Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for allergy-friendly Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats with similar texture
• Air-Popped Popcorn — Use air-popped instead of oil-popped popcorn as base to significantly reduce fat content while maintaining volume

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience
• Serve alongside cold milk or coffee to balance the sweet richness
• Package in clear cellophane bags for festive party favors
• Create a dessert board with these Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats alongside fresh fruit and chocolate-dipped pretzels
• Crumble over yogurt or oatmeal for a breakfast upgrade
• Arrange in decorative mason jars for rustic table displays
• Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence

These Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats are incredibly versatile – perfect for movie nights, holiday gatherings, lunchbox treats, or as edible gifts. For special occasions, consider sprinkling with colorful candy sprinkles or drizzling with melted chocolate to make them even more visually appealing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using stale popcorn that lacks crispness. Fix: Always use freshly popped popcorn to ensure your Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats have the perfect texture.
• Mistake: Overheating the peanut butter coating, causing it to seize. Fix: Gently melt the peanut butter and white chocolate together over low heat, stirring constantly.
• Mistake: Pouring the coating while it’s too hot, making popcorn soggy. Fix: Let the peanut butter mixture cool slightly before combining it with the popcorn.
• Mistake: Inadequate mixing, leaving unevenly coated clusters. Fix: Fold the mixture gently but thoroughly until every piece is well-covered.
• Mistake: Skipping the parchment paper, leading to sticking. Fix: Line your baking sheet with parchment for easy removal of your Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats.
• Mistake: Rushing the setting process at room temperature. Fix: Chill the tray in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up properly.
• Mistake: Adding too many mix-ins, which can prevent proper binding. Fix: Stick to measured amounts of extras like pretzels or M&M’s to maintain structural integrity.
• Mistake: Using natural peanut butter that separates. Fix: Opt for stabilized, no-stir peanut butter for a consistently smooth coating.
• Mistake: Storing finished treats at room temperature, risking melting. Fix: Keep your Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats in an airtight container in a cool place.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week; refrigerate promptly if your kitchen is warm.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly or place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheat: Warm in a 250°F oven for 5–10 minutes until slightly crisp; ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F if adding perishable ingredients.

Always cool your Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats completely before storing to maintain texture and prevent condensation.

Conclusion

These Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats are an irresistible, easy-to-make snack perfect for any occasion. If you love this combination, try our No-Bake Buckeye Candy Recipe or Peanut Butter Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe. Give this recipe a try and share your results in the comments!

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FAQs

Can I make Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare these treats in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This makes them perfect for parties or snacks.

What can I use if I don’t have mini marshmallows?

You can substitute regular marshmallows, but cut them into smaller pieces first. This ensures they melt evenly with the peanut butter to coat the popcorn properly for your Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats.

How do I prevent the popcorn from getting soggy?

Make sure the popcorn is completely cooled before mixing. Also, spread the finished Peanut Butter Avalanche Popcorn Treats in a single layer to set. This helps maintain a crisp texture.