01 -
Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Ensure enough counter space is available, as popcorn will be spread out to cool. Measure and organize all ingredients beforehand as the candy coating sets quickly.
02 -
Place the marshmallow or vanilla candy melts in a large microwave-safe bowl. Melt according to package instructions, typically microwaving in 30-second intervals at 50% power, stirring between each interval, until smooth and fully melted. Avoid overheating to prevent seizing.
03 -
Add 8 cups of the popped popcorn to a large mixing bowl. Pour the melted white candy coating over the popcorn and gently fold with a rubber spatula until all pieces are evenly coated. Work quickly to avoid hardening of the coating.
04 -
Gently fold the torn cotton candy pieces into the coated popcorn mixture, distributing them evenly without crushing. Aim for visible pieces in the final treat.
05 -
Spread the white candy-coated popcorn evenly onto one prepared baking sheet. Immediately sprinkle colorful sprinkles over the mixture while the coating remains soft. Let cool and set for about 15 minutes.
06 -
Divide the remaining 4 cups of popcorn evenly between two medium bowls (2 cups each). Melt the blue candy melts in one microwave-safe bowl and the pink candy melts in another, following the same melting process as before. Pour melted blue candy coating over one bowl of popcorn and pink candy coating over the other. Stir each bowl separately to coat evenly.
07 -
Spread the blue-coated popcorn and pink-coated popcorn onto the second prepared baking sheet, keeping the colors separate. Cool completely until the candy coating has hardened, approximately 30-45 minutes.
08 -
Gently break apart any large clumps of coated popcorn, then combine the white, blue, and pink popcorn in a large serving bowl or container. Serve immediately or portion into individual bags. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, avoiding humidity to maintain texture.