Popcorn balls are a nostalgic treat, perfect for holiday parties, Halloween, or just a fun snack. Here are two of the best popcorn ball recipes—one classic and one with a chocolate twist.
Classic Popcorn Balls:
Ingredients:
10 cups popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup unpopped kernels)
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Place the popped popcorn in a large mixing bowl, removing any unpopped kernels.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Once it reaches a boil, stop stirring and allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes until it reaches 250°F (121°C) on a candy thermometer.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Quickly pour the hot mixture over the popcorn and stir to coat evenly.
Once the popcorn is cool enough to handle, but still pliable, grease your hands with butter or cooking spray and form the popcorn into balls.
Place the popcorn balls on a wax paper-lined baking sheet to set.
Chocolate Popcorn Balls:
Ingredients:
10 cups popped popcorn
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Prepare the popcorn as in the classic recipe.
In a saucepan, melt the butter and stir in the cocoa powder, sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Bring to a boil and cook without stirring until the mixture reaches 250°F (121°C).
Stir in the vanilla extract, then pour the chocolate mixture over the popcorn, stirring to coat.
Shape the popcorn into balls and place them on wax paper to set.
These popcorn balls can be wrapped individually and make a great homemade gift or party favor.