Nut-Free Classic Popcorn Balls
Get ready for a sweet and nostalgic treat with these Nut-Free Classic Popcorn Balls! Perfectly popped kernels are coated in a luscious homemade syrup made from granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and a hint of vanilla, then shaped into festive, handheld delights. Ideal for parties, holidays, or as an on-the-go snack, this recipe is completely nut-free, making it a fantastic allergy-friendly option for family and friends. With just 15 minutes of prep time and simple pantry ingredients, these popcorn balls are as easy to make as they are to devour. Plus, their satisfying crunch and glossy caramel coating make them a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike. Store them in an airtight container for up to a week for an irresistibly sweet pick-me-up whenever you need it!
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Ingredients
- 0.5 cup unpopped popcorn kernels
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 0.25 cup water
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons butter
Directions
Step 1
Place the unpopped popcorn kernels and vegetable oil in a large pot with a lid.
Step 2
Cover the pot and place over medium heat, gently shaking the pot occasionally until all the kernels have popped. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3
Once popped, transfer the popcorn to a large mixing bowl, ensuring you discard any unpopped kernels.
Step 4
In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, water, and salt.
Step 5
Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Step 6
Increase the heat to medium-high and cook without stirring until the mixture reaches a temperature of 250°F (use a candy thermometer for accuracy). This will take about 8-10 minutes.
Step 7
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until the butter is completely melted and incorporated.
Step 8
Carefully pour the syrup mixture over the popcorn and stir quickly using a spatula to coat the popcorn evenly.
Step 9
Allow the mixture to cool slightly, just enough to handle.
Step 10
With lightly buttered hands, carefully shape the coated popcorn into balls about 2.5 inches in diameter. Work quickly as the mixture will harden.
Step 11
Place each popcorn ball on a sheet of parchment paper to set completely.
Step 12
Once set, store the popcorn balls in an airtight container for up to a week.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (797.2g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2827.3 |
| Total Fat 65.8g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 23.6g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 17.9g | |
| Cholesterol 98.7mg | 0% |
| Sodium 1444.3mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 567.0g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 15.6g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 479.5g | |
| Protein 13.6g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 6.7IU | 0% |
| Calcium 21.4mg | 0% |
| Iron 3.3mg | 0% |
| Potassium 347.5mg | 0% |
Source of Calories