How do you make popcorn balls?

How to Make Delicious Popcorn Balls

Yields: About 12 popcorn balls

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

* 10 cups popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup unpopped kernels)

* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

* 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

* 1/4 cup light corn syrup

* 1/4 teaspoon salt

* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

* Optional: 1/2 cup mini marshmallows, 1/4 cup chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Prepare the popcorn: Pop the popcorn in your preferred method. Remove any unpopped kernels and let cool slightly.

2. Make the caramel: In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.

3. Continue cooking: Reduce heat to low and continue stirring for 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage (235°F on a candy thermometer). Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

4. Combine caramel and popcorn: Pour the hot caramel over the popcorn in a large bowl. Stir gently to coat the popcorn evenly.

5. Optional: Add marshmallows and chocolate chips: If desired, add mini marshmallows and chocolate chips to the popcorn mixture and stir to combine.

6. Shape the balls: While the mixture is still warm, use buttered hands to shape the popcorn into 1-inch balls.

7. Chill and serve: Place the popcorn balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and allow to cool completely. Once chilled, enjoy!

Tips:

* For a nuttier flavor, add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts to the popcorn mixture.

* To prevent sticking, butter your hands before shaping the popcorn balls.

* You can store the popcorn balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Enjoy your delicious homemade popcorn balls!