What To Know
- Popcorn balls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Popcorn balls can be served on their own or with a variety of toppings.
Popcorn balls are a classic treat that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. They’re easy to make, and they’re a great way to use up leftover popcorn.
Ingredients
- 12 cups popped popcorn
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Prepare the popcorn. Pop 12 cups of popcorn using your preferred method.
2. Make the syrup. In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, corn syrup, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the syrup has thickened.
3. Remove from heat. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Pour the syrup over the popcorn. Pour the hot syrup over the popcorn in a large bowl. Stir until the popcorn is evenly coated.
5. Form the popcorn balls. Use your hands to form the popcorn into balls. The popcorn balls should be about 2 inches in diameter.
6. Let the popcorn balls cool. Place the popcorn balls on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Let them cool for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Tips
- For a sweeter popcorn ball, add more sugar to the syrup.
- For a more savory popcorn ball, add salt to the syrup.
- You can also add other ingredients to the popcorn balls, such as nuts, seeds, or dried fruit.
- If the syrup is too thick, add a little bit of water. If the syrup is too thin, add a little bit of sugar.
- Popcorn balls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Variations
There are many different ways to make popcorn balls. Here are a few variations:
- Chocolate popcorn balls: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the syrup.
- Peanut butter popcorn balls: Add 1/2 cup of peanut butter to the syrup.
- Caramel popcorn balls: Add 1/2 cup of caramel sauce to the syrup.
- Marshmallow popcorn balls: Add 1/2 cup of marshmallows to the syrup.
Serving Suggestions
Popcorn balls can be served on their own or with a variety of toppings. Here are a few ideas:
- Drizzle with melted chocolate.
- Sprinkle with sprinkles.
- Dip in caramel sauce.
- Top with whipped cream.
Final Note
Popcorn balls are a delicious and easy-to-make treat. They’re perfect for parties, snacks, or dessert. With so many different variations, there’s sure to be a popcorn ball recipe that everyone will enjoy.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: How do I make popcorn balls without corn syrup?
A: You can make popcorn balls without corn syrup by using honey or maple syrup instead.
Q: Can I use microwave popcorn to make popcorn balls?
A: Yes, you can use microwave popcorn to make popcorn balls. However, the popcorn balls may not be as fluffy as if you used air-popped popcorn.
Q: How do I store popcorn balls?
A: Popcorn balls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
