Popcorn Balls: A Comfort Classic
What Started it all:
Popcorn balls
Popcorn balls are a delightful treat that brings back memories of childhood. They’re sweet, crunchy, and utterly irresistible. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, these little gems will have everyone begging for more. Let’s get to it!
Ingredients
- 12 cups of popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup unpopped kernels)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup candy corn (or any candy you fancy)
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows (optional)
- Cooking spray (for your hands, trust me)
Instructions
- Pop the Corn: Get your popcorn popping! Use an air popper or stovetop method. You need 12 cups of the stuff, so make sure it’s fluffy and light. Don’t burn it, or you’ll ruin everything!
- Prepare Your Workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. You’ll want this ready to go.
- Melt the Mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, butter, and salt. Stir until it’s bubbling and the sugar has dissolved. Keep an eye on it; we’re not making candy here, just a sticky mix.
- Add Flavor: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This is where the magic happens, so don’t skimp on the vanilla!
- Combine: Pour the hot mixture over the popped popcorn in a large bowl. Get in there with a spatula and gently fold it until every kernel is coated. Don’t crush the popcorn; treat it like the delicate flower it is!
- Add Extras: Now, toss in the candy corn and mini marshmallows if you’re using them. Mix it in like you mean it!
- Form the Balls: Spray your hands with cooking spray (seriously, do it) and scoop out a handful of the mixture. Squeeze it firmly to form a ball, about the size of a golf ball. Repeat until you’ve made 8 glorious popcorn balls.
- Cool and Set: Place the popcorn balls on the prepared baking sheet and let them cool completely. This will take about 30 minutes. Don’t touch them until they’re set; we don’t want sticky fingers everywhere!
There you have it! Delicious, crunchy popcorn balls that will satisfy your cravings and make everyone smile. Perfect for movie nights, parties, or just because you deserve a treat. Now go on, get in that kitchen and show those ingredients who’s boss!