Craving a snack that's both indulgent and surprisingly healthy? Get ready to revolutionize your snack game with these mind-blowing Salted Chocolate Chia Popcorn Balls! Imagine the perfect blend of crunchy popcorn, rich dark chocolate, and a hint of sea salt that will make your taste buds dance with joy. These aren't your ordinary popcorn balls – they're a gourmet treat that's quick to make, packed with nutrition, and guaranteed to impress both kids and adults alike. Whether you're looking for a guilt-free dessert or a show-stopping party snack, these chocolate chia popcorn balls are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 10 balls
Ingredients
- 4 cups popped popcorn
- 1/2 cup chia seeds
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare a large mixing bowl by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or a thin layer of coconut oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the freshly popped popcorn into the prepared mixing bowl, ensuring there are no unpopped kernels.
- In a small saucepan, gently melt dark chocolate chips over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Remove from heat once completely smooth.
- Add maple syrup to the melted chocolate and whisk until thoroughly combined, creating a glossy chocolate mixture.
- Sprinkle chia seeds evenly over the popcorn in the mixing bowl.
- Pour the warm chocolate-maple syrup mixture over the popcorn and chia seeds, using a spatula to gently fold and coat all popcorn pieces completely.
- Sprinkle sea salt over the chocolate-covered popcorn, continuing to fold gently to distribute evenly.
- Allow mixture to cool slightly for 2-3 minutes until it's comfortable to handle but still warm and sticky.
- Using clean hands, compress the popcorn mixture into compact balls, applying gentle but firm pressure to help them hold together.
- Place formed popcorn balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 10 minutes to help them set.
- Remove from refrigerator and serve immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Make sure to use freshly popped popcorn for the best texture and flavor. Stale popcorn can make your balls less crispy.
- When melting chocolate, use low heat and stir constantly to prevent burning. If the chocolate seizes, add a tiny bit of coconut oil to smooth it out.
- Work quickly when forming the balls – the mixture is easiest to shape when it's still slightly warm and sticky.
- For a more uniform size, use slightly damp hands when forming the balls to prevent sticking.
- If the mixture is too loose, let it cool for an extra minute or two before shaping. If it's too dry, add a touch more maple syrup.
- Store in an airtight container, and for best texture, consume within 2-3 days.
- For a vegan version, ensure you're using vegan chocolate chips and maple syrup.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of salt – smoked sea salt or flavored salts can add an extra dimension of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 101kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
