Celebrate Independence Day with Flavorful Treats
As contributor Family Features suggests, it’s time to bring out the stars and stripes to celebrate America’s Independence Day. Accompany the vibrant fireworks with one of the nation’s favorite snacks: popcorn.
Whether your celebration is by the pool, in the comfort of air conditioning, or under the mesmerizing night sky filled with fireworks, delicious snacks that pay homage to this significant day are a great way to showcase your patriotic pride.
These Peanut Butter Cups make for an effortless summer treat, crafted from simple household ingredients. Begin by melting peanut butter, butter, and marshmallows, then combine with popcorn, shredded wheat, peanuts, and raisins. Bake them in individual paper liners for easy serving and share with loved ones. For an additional festive touch, consider using liners themed with the American flag or adorn them with small American flag toothpicks.
Introduce some spice to your festivities with Cinnamon Candy Poppers. Reminiscent of traditional firecrackers, these delightful balls of sticky sweetness add an impressive burst to any snack spread.
Peanut Butter Cups
Yield: 24 cups
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup butter or margarine
- 1 package (10 1/2 ounces) miniature marshmallows
- 6 cups freshly popped popcorn
- 6 cups spoon-size shredded wheat
- 1 cup dry roasted peanuts
- 1 cup raisins
Preheat the oven to 250 F. In a large, microwavable bowl, melt the peanut butter and butter together in the microwave for 1 minute on high. Add the marshmallows and microwave on high for 1 minute, or until they puff up; then stir. Mix in the popcorn, shredded wheat, peanuts, and raisins, stirring gently. Line two 12-cup muffin pans with paper liners. Distribute the mixture evenly among the 24 cups. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and place the "cups" in an airtight container for storage.
Cinnamon Candy Poppers
Yield: 24 balls
- Nonstick cooking spray
- 3 quarts popped popcorn
- 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter or margarine
- 3 cups miniature marshmallows
- 1/2 cup cinnamon-flavored candies
- Red and blue confection stars
- Red licorice string
Lay out a large sheet of plastic wrap on your work surface and spray it with nonstick cooking spray. Lightly spray a large mixing bowl with nonstick cooking spray and pour in the popcorn. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter, then stir in the marshmallows until melted and smooth. Pour this mixture over the popcorn. Add the cinnamon candies and stir until well-coated. Lightly spray your hands with nonstick cooking spray and shape the mixture into 24 balls. Press red and blue stars onto each ball and add a piece of licorice string on top. For more popcorn-inspired summer snack ideas, visit Popcorn.org.
