Classic Popcorn Balls
Transform your snack time with these irresistibly sweet and crunchy Classic Popcorn Balls, a nostalgic treat that's perfect for parties, holidays, or a fun family project. Made from freshly popped, golden popcorn coated in a luscious homemade syrup of buttery sugar, light corn syrup, and a hint of vanilla, this recipe is the ultimate balance of chewy and crisp textures. In just 30 minutes, you can create 12 perfectly shaped popcorn balls that are bursting with old-fashioned charm and flavor. Whether you're looking for a festive Halloween treat, a Christmas classic, or a satisfying afternoon snack, these easy-to-make popcorn balls will delight kids and adults alike. Serve them fresh or store them in an airtight container for on-the-go enjoyment! Keywords: Classic Popcorn Balls, sweet snacks, no-bake desserts, popcorn recipes, holiday treats.
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Ingredients
- 0.5 cups unpopped popcorn kernels
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 0.25 cup butter
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
Step 1
Start by preparing your popcorn. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add 3-4 popcorn kernels and cover with a lid.
Step 2
Once the test kernels pop, add the remaining 1/2 cup of unpopped kernels to the pot and cover. Shake the pot occasionally to ensure even popping.
Step 3
Continue cooking until the popping slows to about 2 seconds between pops, then remove the pot from heat and transfer the popcorn to a large mixing bowl. Set aside.
Step 4
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 cup of light corn syrup, 1/4 cup of butter, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir constantly over medium heat until the mixture comes to a boil. Stop stirring and allow it to boil for about 2-3 minutes until it reaches 235°F (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
Step 5
Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Step 6
Pour the hot syrup over the prepared popcorn. Use a large spatula to stir and coat the popcorn evenly with the syrup.
Step 7
Allow the mixture to cool slightly, yet warm enough to handle.
Step 8
Lightly butter your hands and form the coated popcorn into 12 even-sized balls, pressing gently to ensure they stick together.
Step 9
Place the popcorn balls on a wax paper-lined baking sheet to set completely.
Step 10
Once set, the popcorn balls are ready to serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (651.2g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2550.4 |
| Total Fat 77.3g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 30.0g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 18.2g | |
| Cholesterol 131.6mg | 0% |
| Sodium 1515.8mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 467.0g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 15.6g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 379.5g | |
| Protein 13.7g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 9.0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 20.8mg | 0% |
| Iron 3.3mg | 0% |
| Potassium 350.7mg | 0% |
Source of Calories