Old-Time Popcorn Balls
Our whole family loves popcorn. These old-time popcorn balls are great anytime, but they're especially fun to pass out to trick-or-treaters or to use at Christmastime as stocking stuffers! They always look appealing when covered in a clear warp and tied with a festive ribbon.
SERVINGS
|
6-8
|
CATEGORY
|
Appetizer
|
METHOD
|
Other stovetop
|
PREP |
15 min. |
COOK
|
15 min.
|
TOTAL
|
30 min.
|
INGREDIENTS
- 2 quarts popped popcorn
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup water
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1 tablespoon butter or margarine
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
DIRECTIONS
Place popcorn in a large bowl and set aside. In a heavy saucepan, combine molasses, sugar, water, vinegar and butter. Cook, without stirring, over medium heat until the mixture reaches 235° on a candy thermometer (soft-ball stage). Add baking soda and stir well. Remove from heat and immediately pour over popcorn, stirring gently with a wooden spoon until well coated. When cool enough to handle, quickly shape into 3-in. balls, dipping hands in cool water to prevent the syrup from sticking. Yield: 6-8 servings.