Popcorn Balls

Experience the joy of homemade popcorn balls! These delightful treats are not only a nostalgic snack but also a fun project for the whole family. With their crunchy texture and sweetness, popcorn balls are perfect for any occasion, from parties to movie nights. Get ready to make a batch that will impress your friends and family!

Ingredients

• 8 cups popped popcorn
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup corn syrup
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup candy sprinkles (optional)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes about 12 popcorn balls. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 10 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 popcorn ball) contains approximately 150 calories, 5g fat, 25g carbohydrates, and 1g protein. This is based on one serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Pop the popcorn and place it in a large bowl.
2. In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, butter, and salt.
3. Heat over medium until the mixture comes to a boil.
4. Allow it to boil for 2 minutes without stirring.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
6. Pour the syrup mixture over the popcorn, mixing well to coat.
7. Let the mixture cool slightly for easier handling.
8. Grease your hands with butter and shape the mixture into balls.
9. Roll the balls in candy sprinkles, if desired.
10. Place on wax paper to set and cool completely.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute corn syrup with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor. Additionally, feel free to use flavored popcorn or different types of candy for coating.

Serving and Pairings

Popcorn balls can be served as a stand-alone snack or paired with hot cocoa or ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating

Store popcorn balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage; just ensure they are well-wrapped.

Cooking Mistakes

• Not properly coating the popcorn can lead to uneven flavor.
• Overcooking the syrup can cause it to become too hard.
• Using unpopped kernels can ruin the texture.
• Not greasing your hands can make shaping difficult.
• Skipping the cooling step can make the balls fall apart.

Helpful Tips

• Use freshly popped popcorn for the best texture.
• Experiment with different mix-ins like nuts or dried fruits.
• For a festive touch, use seasonal sprinkles.
• Make mini popcorn balls for bite-sized treats.

FAQs

Can I use microwave popcorn?

Yes, you can use microwave popcorn, but make sure it’s plain or lightly salted to avoid overpowering flavors.

How long do popcorn balls last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, popcorn balls can last up to one week at room temperature.

Can I add chocolate to popcorn balls?

Absolutely! Melted chocolate can be drizzled over or mixed into the popcorn for a delicious twist.

Are popcorn balls gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the popcorn and other ingredients used are gluten-free, popcorn balls can be enjoyed by those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I make popcorn balls ahead of time?

Yes, popcorn balls can be made a few days in advance and stored in an airtight container until ready to serve.

Conclusion

Popcorn balls are a delightful treat that combines fun and flavor in every bite. Perfect for celebrations or simply as an afternoon snack, these treats are easy to customize and sure to be a hit. Gather your ingredients and start making memories with this nostalgic recipe!

Popcorn Balls

Delightful popcorn balls that are a fun treat perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and customizable, these snacks are sure to please everyone!

Print Pin Rate

Course: Snack

Cuisine: American

Keyword: popcorn, snacks, treats, dessert, party food

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes minutes

Servings: 12 servings

Calories: 150kcal

Ingredients

• 8 cups popped popcorn
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup corn syrup
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup candy sprinkles optional

Instructions

• Pop the popcorn and place it in a large bowl.
• In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, butter, and salt.
• Heat over medium until the mixture comes to a boil.
• Allow it to boil for 2 minutes without stirring.
• Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
• Pour the syrup mixture over the popcorn, mixing well to coat.
• Let the mixture cool slightly for easier handling.
• Grease your hands with butter and shape the mixture into balls.
• Roll the balls in candy sprinkles, if desired.
• Place on wax paper to set and cool completely.

Nutrition

Calories: 150kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 5g