Best-Ever Popcorn Balls

Ingredients

• 6 cups popped popcorn
• 3/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: sprinkles, nuts, mini-marshmallows, and/or chocolate chips

Directions

1. Place the popcorn in a large bowl and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the corn syrup, brown sugar, butter, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to boil. Boil for 1 minute.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Pour the mixture over the popcorn and mix to combine. If using any of the optional ingredients, add them now and mix until evenly distributed.
5. Let the mixture cool for about 5 minutes, or until cool enough to handle.
6. Using your hands, form the mixture into balls. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
7. Let the popcorn balls cool completely before serving. Enjoy!

Interesting Facts

• Popcorn balls originated in the United States in the mid-1800s.
• Popcorn balls are traditionally made with butter and marshmallows, but can be made with other ingredients like corn syrup and brown sugar.
• Popcorn balls can be decorated with sprinkles, nuts, mini-marshmallows, and/or chocolate chips.
• Popcorn balls are a popular treat for Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.