Classic Popcorn Balls Recipe: Just Like Grandpa Used to Make

Name: Classic Popcorn Balls Recipe: Just Like Grandpa Used to Make
Total time: 25 mins
Ingredients: 2 cups white sugar; 1 cup light corn syrup; 0.5 cup butter; 0.25 cup water; salt to taste; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar; 5 quarts popped popcorn

These old-fashioned crunchy popcorn balls are a treasured family recipe from my Great Grandpa Apell, who made them every Christmas for his grandkids. He attributed his long life (106 years!) to working on his Illinois farm and enjoying plenty of corn!

Total time25 mins
Prep time10 mins
Cook time15 mins
Yield10 (3-inch) popcorn balls, 10

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Servings

Ingredients

2 cups white sugar
1 cup light corn syrup
0.5 cup butter
0.25 cup water
salt to taste
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
5 quarts popped popcorn

Instructions

In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, butter, and water over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture reaches the hard-crack stage (300 degrees F or 150 degrees C). Remove from heat and stir in vanilla or vinegar.
Gradually pour the hot syrup over the popcorn, stirring with a long-handled spoon to ensure all kernels are evenly coated. Allow the mixture to cool for about 5 minutes, until it is safe to handle. Lightly grease your hands with butter or cooking spray, then shape the mixture into 3-inch balls. Place the popcorn balls on waxed paper to cool completely.

Nutrition

Calories: 458 kcal
Fat Content: 19 g
Fiber Content: 2 g
Sugar Content: 49 g
Sodium Content: 317 mg
Protein Content: 2 g
Cholesterol Content: 24 mg
Carbohydrate Content: 75 g
Saturated Fat Content: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat Content: 0 g