Judy's Chewy Popcorn Balls 🍿✨

These fun and festive popcorn balls are a nostalgic treat that's perfect for any gathering or movie night! Crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, they're easy to make and delicious to eat. Whether you're a kid or just a kid at heart, these popcorn balls will be a favorite. Enjoy them on their own or package them up as fun edible gifts! 🎁

Ingredients

• For the syrup

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup white corn syrup
  • 1/3 cup water
  • 1/2 cup butter or margarine
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 3/4 tsp vanilla extract

• For the popcorn

  • 3 quarts popped popcorn (approximately 1 cup of unpopped kernels)

Instructions

1. Pop the popcorn: Begin by popping your popcorn using your preferred method (stovetop, air popper, or microwave). Make sure to remove any unpopped kernels.

   🍿 Tip: For an extra flavor twist, drizzle the popcorn with melted butter and sprinkle a bit of seasoning before adding the syrup!

2. Make the syrup: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, water, butter, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is fully dissolved.

3. Cook the syrup: Once dissolved, continue to cook the syrup without stirring until it reaches the soft-ball stage (approximately 235°F or 113°C). To test, drop a small amount of syrup into cold water; it should form a brittle ball.

   ⏳ Be cautious: Keep an eye on the syrup while cooking—it can quickly go from perfect to burnt!

4. Mix in the vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the vanilla extract, stirring just enough to evenly distribute it through the hot syrup.

5. Combine with popcorn: Pour the syrup over the popped popcorn, mixing well to coat evenly. You may want to use a large spatula or wooden spoon to help with mixing.

6. Shape into balls: Once the mixture is cool enough to handle, dampen your hands with water to prevent sticking. Grab handfuls of the mixture and form them into balls, squeezing firmly to help them hold together.

   👐 Hint: If you're having trouble shaping the balls, let the mixture cool a bit longer until it's easier to handle.

Variations

• Add Some Color: Mix in colorful candy (like M&Ms) or sprinkles for a fun festive look! 🌈
• Nuts or Dried Fruit: Incorporate chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
• Flavor Infusions: Experiment by adding flavorings like almond extract or even a pinch of cinnamon to the syrup for a unique twist!
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the formed popcorn balls for an indulgent touch. 🍫

Storage

Store your popcorn balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them from getting too sticky, place parchment paper between layers.

Enjoy making these delightful treats, and watch them disappear at your next gathering! 🎉