Irresistibly Easy Caramel Popcorn Balls: A Delectable Recipe

Indulge your sweet tooth with these delightful caramel popcorn balls - a classic treat that's perfect for snacking, parties, or holiday gatherings. Made with just a few simple ingredients and easy to customize to your liking, these homemade caramel popcorn balls are sure to become a family favorite. Let's dive into the easy recipe and discover how to make these irresistible treats at home.

Ingredients:

• 10 cups popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup unpopped kernels)
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: add-ins such as chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit

caramel popcorn balls easy recipe

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Popcorn

1. Pop the popcorn kernels using an air popper or stovetop method. Make sure to remove any unpopped kernels and place the popped popcorn in a large mixing bowl. You should have approximately 10 cups of popped popcorn.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, and salt over medium heat.
2. Stirring constantly, bring the mixture to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, continue to cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the caramel thickens slightly and reaches a deep golden brown color.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Coat the Popcorn

1. Pour the hot caramel sauce over the popped popcorn in the mixing bowl.
2. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently toss the popcorn until it is evenly coated with the caramel sauce.
3. If desired, add any optional mix-ins such as chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit, and mix until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Form the Popcorn Balls

1. Allow the caramel-coated popcorn to cool slightly until it is safe to handle but still warm.
2. Using greased hands, scoop out a portion of the caramel popcorn mixture and gently press it together to form a ball, about the size of a tennis ball.
3. Place the formed popcorn ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet or wax paper to set. Repeat with the remaining popcorn mixture, re-greasing your hands as needed to prevent sticking.

caramel popcorn balls easy recipe

Step 5: Let the Popcorn Balls Set

1. Allow the caramel popcorn balls to cool and set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour before serving.
2. Once set, the popcorn balls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.

Conclusion:

With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, these homemade caramel popcorn balls are a cinch to make and a joy to eat. Whether you're looking for a fun treat for movie night, a sweet addition to a party spread, or a delicious homemade gift, these caramel popcorn balls are sure to please. Get creative with your mix-ins and enjoy the irresistible combination of crunchy popcorn and sweet caramel in every bite!