Halloween Popcorn Balls
User Reviews
4.5
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Prep Time
20 mins
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Total Time
20 mins
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Servings
12 popcorn balls
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Course
Dessert
Halloween Popcorn Balls
Description
This recipe begins with freshly popped popcorn coated evenly in a syrup made by boiling granulated sugar, light corn syrup, butter, and salt until foamy, then stirred with vanilla and baking soda. The syrup’s warmth allows it to bind the popcorn together as it cools. Half of the candy corn is stirred into the coated popcorn, adding bursts of sweetness and seasonal color. After the mixture cools just enough to handle, it’s shaped into compact 3-inch balls, pressing additional candy corn onto their surfaces. Optionally, the balls are rolled in Halloween-themed sprinkles to add a decorative touch and extra texture.
The final popcorn balls are sweet and slightly chewy due to the candy corn and syrup, with a crisp popcorn base. They hold their shape well and make for a festive snack or treat for Halloween celebrations. Individually wrapping them in plastic wrap helps keep them fresh and portable.
Mini candy corn used in the recipe adds manageable pieces that integrate well throughout and on the popcorn balls. Sprinkles are optional but highlight the holiday theme.
Use nonstick spray on hands before shaping to prevent sticking. Cool popcorn mixture slightly before handling for easier shaping without burning fingers.
Ingredients
- 12 cups Popcorn about ½ cup unpopped kernels, popped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ¼ cup butter 4 tablespoons / ½ stick
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup candy corn divided use, mini size
- 2 tablespoons Sprinkles optional, Halloween variety
Instructions
- Coat a large roasting or baking pan with nonstick cooking spray. Add popcorn or use an air popper and pop popcorn directly into the pan.
- In a 2-quart saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Once at a boil, continue to cook and stir for 2 minutes; mixture will be foamy.
- Remove from heat and carefully stir in vanilla and baking soda.
- Pour syrup over popcorn and stir to coat well. Let cool slightly, then mix in half of the candy corn. If using, pour sprinkles into a shallow bowl.
- Once mixture is cooled enough to handle, coat your hands with nonstick spray. Quickly shape popcorn into 3-inch balls, pressing extra candy corn onto the outside. Roll balls in sprinkles and press to adhere.
- Place finished popcorn balls on a lined baking sheet and let cool completely. Wrap individually in plastic wrap.
Notes
- Use mini candy corn found in seasonal sections to mix evenly in popcorn and for pressing onto the balls.
- Coat hands with nonstick spray before shaping to prevent sticking and for easier handling.
- Let the syrup-coated popcorn cool slightly before shaping to avoid burns but still allow the mixture to stick together.
- Wrap finished popcorn balls individually in plastic wrap for freshness and portability.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.5
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