Description
This delightful Popcorn Balls recipe features crispy popcorn coated with a sweet, buttery syrup and a hint of vanilla, finished with festive sprinkles to make a perfect treat for parties or holidays. These chewy, handheld popcorn balls are easy to make and fun to enjoy, capturing the nostalgic taste of classic candy.
Ingredients
Popcorn:
- 3 quarts popped popcorn (12 cups)
Syrup Mixture:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup Karo® Light OR Dark Corn Syrup
- 1/4 cup butter or margarine
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Optional Toppings:
- 3 tablespoons festive sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare popcorn: Spray a large roasting pan lightly with nonstick cooking spray. Add the popped popcorn to the pan and place it in a 300ºF oven until it is warmed through. This step ensures the popcorn is slightly heated and ready to absorb the syrup mixture.
- Make the syrup mixture: In a heavy 2-quart saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, butter, and salt. Stir constantly over medium heat until the mixture comes to a boil. Continue stirring and boil for 2 minutes to achieve the right consistency.
- Add flavorings: Remove the syrup mixture from the heat and stir in the pure vanilla extract and baking soda. The baking soda will cause the mixture to foam and lighten in texture, making the popcorn balls less sticky.
- Coat the popcorn: Immediately pour the hot syrup mixture evenly over the warm popcorn in the roasting pan. Stir thoroughly to coat all the popcorn pieces. If using, mix in festive sprinkles at this stage for added color and fun.
- Shape popcorn balls: Allow the mixture to cool slightly until it is safe to touch but still pliable. Spray your hands lightly with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Quickly shape the coated popcorn into twelve 3-inch balls.
- Cool and store: Let the popcorn balls cool completely to set. Once cooled, wrap each ball individually in plastic wrap to keep them fresh and easy to handle.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly popped popcorn without any added butter or salt.
- Adjust the sprinkles quantity or skip them altogether depending on taste or occasion.
- Work quickly when shaping the popcorn balls as the syrup hardens as it cools.
- You can substitute margarine with butter to enhance flavor.
- Popcorn balls can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
