Sugar-Free Classic Popcorn Balls
Satisfy your snack cravings with these delightful Sugar-Free Classic Popcorn Balls, a guilt-free twist on a nostalgic treat! Made with freshly popped popcorn and naturally sweetened with sugar-free maple syrup, these popcorn balls are a wholesome alternative to traditional versions. A touch of vanilla extract and a hint of sea salt enhance the flavor, creating the perfect balance of sweet and savory. This easy, 30-minute recipe is ideal for family movie nights, holiday gatherings, or as a portable snack for kids and adults alike. With no refined sugar and minimal ingredients, these handmade popcorn balls are a healthier take on a timeless classic, all without sacrificing the satisfying crunch and rich taste you love.
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Ingredients
- 1 cup unpopped popcorn kernels
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil or butter
- 1 cup sugar-free maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 teaspoon sea salt
Directions
Step 1
Start by preparing your popcorn. Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
Step 2
Add 1 cup of unpopped popcorn kernels to the pot. Cover with a lid, leaving it slightly ajar to allow steam to escape, and shake occasionally until all kernels have popped. This should take around 4-5 minutes.
Step 3
Once popped, transfer the popcorn to a large mixing bowl. Remove any unpopped kernels.
Step 4
In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar-free maple syrup and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter.
Step 5
Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the butter has melted and the syrup is smooth.
Step 6
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring continuously, and let it simmer for 2 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 7
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 0.5 teaspoon of sea salt.
Step 8
Pour the syrup mixture over the popcorn and gently toss until all pieces are evenly coated.
Step 9
With lightly greased hands, form the coated popcorn into balls about the size of a tennis ball. Press gently to compact the popcorn without crushing it.
Step 10
Place the formed balls onto a sheet of wax paper or a lightly greased baking sheet to set.
Step 11
Allow the popcorn balls to cool completely before serving. Enjoy your sugar-free treat!
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (528.7g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1281.5 |
| Total Fat 50.3g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 12.4g | 0% |
| Cholesterol 31mg | 0% |
| Sodium 1621.7mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 186.1g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 31.2g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 2.7g | |
| Protein 26.5g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 20.4mg | 0% |
| Iron 6.5mg | 0% |
| Potassium 669.6mg | 0% |
Source of Calories