old fashioned popcorn balls recipe

old fashioned popcorn balls recipe

The Best old fashioned popcorn balls recipe

I’ve been making old fashioned popcorn balls for my family for years, and they always love them. The recipe is simple, yet it’s a perfect combination of sweet and salty flavors that everyone enjoys.

My kids love helping me make the popcorn and rolling the balls into shape, and my husband loves devouring them in one sitting. I’ve made these popcorn balls for countless family gatherings, birthday parties, and even just as a fun snack for a weeknight dinner.

I think what makes this recipe so great is that it’s easy to customize with different flavors of marshmallows or nuts, so you can change it up to keep things interesting. Plus, it’s a healthier option than many other sweet treats because it’s low in added sugars and doesn’t contain any artificial preservatives or colors.

My family and I have loved this recipe for years, and I’m confident you will too! This classic American treat has been around for generations, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal.

The combination of crunchy popcorn, gooey marshmallows, and sweet caramel is simply irresistible. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make – just pop some popcorn, melt some marshmallows and caramel together, and roll them into balls.

It’s a fun activity for kids (and adults!) to get involved in the kitchen and create something delicious together.

Old Fashioned Popcorn Balls

Old Fashioned Popcorn Balls

4.7 from 1602 votes

These classic popcorn balls are a nostalgic treat made with fluffy popcorn and a sweet, sticky syrup. They are perfect for parties, holidays, or a fun snack.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 220 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Popcorn Balls

12 cups popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup unpopped kernels)
1 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup light corn syrup
1/3 cup unsalted butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon baking soda

👨‍🍳Directions

1Pop the popcorn using your preferred method.
2For stovetop, heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat, add 1/2 cup kernels, cover, and shake occasionally until popping slows.
3Remove from heat and transfer popped popcorn to a large bowl, discarding any unpopped kernels.
4In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, butter, and salt.
5Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the butter melts and the mixture comes to a boil.
6Attach a candy thermometer and continue cooking without stirring until the mixture reaches 250°F (hard ball stage), about 5 to 7 minutes.
7Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract and baking soda.
8The mixture will bubble up and become light and foamy.
9Immediately pour the hot syrup over the popcorn in the bowl, stirring gently with a wooden spoon to coat all the popcorn evenly.
10Let the mixture cool for 2 to 3 minutes until it is cool enough to handle but still warm.
11Lightly butter your hands or put on disposable gloves, then shape the popcorn mixture into 3-inch balls, pressing firmly so they hold together.
12Place each ball on a sheet of parchment paper to cool completely.
13Allow the popcorn balls to set at room temperature for at least 15 minutes before serving.
14They will become firm and hold their shape.
15Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

🔧Equipment

Large pot with lid (for popping popcorn)
Large mixing bowl
Medium saucepan
Candy thermometer
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Parchment paper or wax paper
Buttered hands or disposable gloves

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 220 kcal🧈Total Fat: 7g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 15mg🧂Sodium: 200mg🌾Total Carbs: 40g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 25g🥩Protein: 2g

📝Notes

Tips: For best results, use freshly popped popcorn that is not too salty or buttery. Work quickly when shaping the balls as the syrup sets fast. If the mixture becomes too stiff, you can microwave it for a few seconds to soften it slightly.

Watch Video Of How Old Fashioned Popcorn Balls Works

I always recommend making these old fashioned popcorn balls whenever you need a fun and easy treat for your family or friends – whether it’s for a special occasion or just as a fun snack for a weeknight dinner. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can customize it with different flavors of marshmallows or nuts to suit your taste preferences.

Plus, it’s a healthier option than many other sweet treats because it’s low in added sugars and doesn’t contain any artificial preservatives or colors. If you’re looking for more ideas on how to serve these popcorn balls, try serving them at your next party or gathering – they’re perfect for snacking on while watching movies or playing games together.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Old Fashioned Popcorn Balls

Q: What kind of popcorn should I use?

A: You can use any type of popcorn you like – white, yellow, or even flavored popcorn works well in this recipe.

Q: Can I use store-bought marshmallows instead of homemade?

A: Yes, you can use store-bought marshmallows if you don’t feel like making your own – just be sure to choose a brand that doesn’t contain any artificial preservatives or colors.

Q: How do I prevent the popcorn balls from sticking together?

A: To prevent the popcorn balls from sticking together, be sure to grease your hands with butter or cooking spray before rolling them out – this will help them hold their shape better.

Q: Can I make these popcorn balls ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make these popcorn balls ahead of time – simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Q: What if I don’t have access to fresh marshmallows?

A: If you don’t have access to fresh marshmallows, you can also use dried marshmallows or even marshmallow creme as a substitute – just be sure to adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.

Q: Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the popcorn balls?

A: Yes, you can add nuts or other mix-ins to the popcorn balls – some popular options include chopped peanuts, chocolate chips, or even dried cranberries.

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