Caramel Popcorn Balls

4 stars
4.46 (20)
Caramel Popcorn Balls
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
20 mins
Total Time:
30mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on August 04, 2023

Ingredients

  • 4 quarts popped popcorn
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Non-stick cooking spray

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 250°F. Spread popcorn in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake in preheated oven for 10 minutes to dry out the popcorn.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, melt butter. Add corn syrup and brown sugar and bring to a boil. Boil for 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Pour the hot caramel mixture over the popcorn and stir with a wooden spoon to coat evenly. Spray your hands with cooking spray and shape the popcorn into balls. Place on parchment paper or a silpat to cool.
  4. Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Interesting Facts

  • The original caramel popcorn recipe was created in the late 1800s in Chicago.
  • Caramel popcorn balls are a popular treat in the United States, especially around the holidays.
  • Caramel popcorn balls are also sometimes called “monkey balls”.