Description
These Caramel Popcorn Balls are a delightful, sweet treat that combines crispy popcorn with rich, buttery caramel. Perfect for parties, snacks, or festive occasions, they are easy to make and wonderfully chewy with a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Popcorn
- 10 cups popped popcorn (e.g., Skinny Pop)
Caramel Sauce
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup light corn syrup
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking, then set aside.
- Melt Butter and Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt, mixing thoroughly to combine.
- Boil Caramel Mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Once boiling, cook without stirring for 4-5 minutes until the mixture reaches a light caramel color.
- Add Baking Soda and Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract. The mixture will foam up, which is normal.
- Coat the Popcorn: Immediately pour the caramel sauce over the popped popcorn in a large bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently but thoroughly coat all the popcorn with the caramel sauce.
- Form Popcorn Balls: Let the mixture cool slightly so it’s safe to handle. Grease your hands with butter or oil, then shape the coated popcorn into balls approximately 3 inches in diameter.
- Set and Cool: Place the formed popcorn balls on the prepared baking sheet and allow them to cool completely to set the caramel.
Notes
- Use fresh, well-popped popcorn without unpopped kernels for the best texture and safety.
- Work quickly when coating and shaping the popcorn before the caramel hardens.
- Store popcorn balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- To make smaller or larger balls, adjust size accordingly but be sure to proportionally adjust batch quantities if needed.
- For a gluten-free treat, ensure the popcorn and corn syrup are certified gluten-free.
