Delicious and nostalgic old-fashioned popcorn balls recipe

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Delicious and nostalgic old-fashioned popcorn balls recipe
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
30 mins
Total Time:
40mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on April 06, 2024

These classic old-fashioned popcorn balls are a fun and tasty treat perfect for any special occasion or holiday. Made with just a few simple ingredients, they are sure to bring back fond memories of childhood days at the fair or carnivals.

Ingredients

  • 10 cups popped popcorn
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/3 cup water
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, place the popped popcorn and set aside.
  2. In a saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, water, butter, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 250°F on a candy thermometer.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Pour the hot syrup over the popped popcorn and toss to coat evenly.
  5. Using buttered hands, shape the coated popcorn into balls, pressing firmly to ensure they hold together.
  6. Place the formed popcorn balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool and set.
  7. Once cooled, wrap each popcorn ball individually in plastic wrap for storage or enjoy immediately.

Interesting Facts

  • Popcorn balls were a popular treat at fairs and carnivals in the early 20th century.
  • In the past, popcorn balls were often used as a way to help preserve popcorn during the winter months.