How To: Make a Mini-Marshmallow Popper

Once you've cut off the bottoms of these paper cups and slipped on balloons, you've got a springy surface for launching spongy sweets into the air. Host a contest to see who can pop marshmallows the farthest or get the most into a bowl that's a few feet away.

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Updated on September 26, 2016

Once you’ve cut off the bottoms of these paper cups and slipped on balloons, you’ve got a springy surface for launching spongy sweets into the air. Host a contest to see who can pop marshmallows the farthest or get the most into a bowl that’s a few feet away.

What You Need

  • Scissors and utility knife, markers, ruler, rubber bands, glue, tape (transparent, duct, masking, or colored), gift wrap or decorative paper, kraft paper, balloon, uninflated, paper cup, bottom cut off, mini marshmallows

Follow These Steps

  1. Knot the end of the balloon, then snip off 1⁄2 inch from the top.
  2. Stretch the balloon over the cutoff end of the cup so that the knot is in the center. (You’ll need to hold the balloon in place when you “pop,” or secure it with a rubber band for little hands.)
  3. Place a mini marshmallow into the cup so it fits snugly in the knotted center of the balloon. While aiming the cup away from you (and others), pull the knot back, release, and see how far you can send the marshmallow soaring.
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