Caramel Popcorn Balls

Name: Caramel Popcorn Balls
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 10 popcorn balls.
Ingredients: 8 cups popped popcorn; 3 cups crisp rice cereal; 42 caramels; 3 tablespoons water; 1 cup salted peanuts; 1/8 teaspoon salt

I've been a fan of popcorn since my mother used to grow corn in our garden. I've shared this special treat for years. Friends and family often request it during the holiday.—Anne Welsh, Greenwood, Indiana

Ingredients

8 cups popped popcorn
3 cups crisp rice cereal
42 caramels
3 tablespoons water
1 cup salted peanuts
1/8 teaspoon salt

Directions

Combine popcorn and cereal in a large bowl; set aside.
In a heavy saucepan over low heat or in a microwave-safe dish, heat caramels and water until the caramels are melted. Stir in peanuts and salt; mix well. Pour over popcorn mixture and toss to coat.
With buttered hands, shape into 3-in. balls. Reshape if necessary when partially cooled.

Nutrition Facts

1 each: 320 calories, 13g fat (4g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 350mg sodium, 47g carbohydrate (29g sugars, 3g fiber), 7g protein.

Originally published as Caramel Popcorn Balls in Taste of Home December/January 2000

Reviews

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Average Rating:

slmacbeth

Jan 14, 2019

They held together very nicely for me. We enjoyed them very much.
silverscribler

Dec 16, 2012

I like the taste of these, but it is so difficult to get them to hold together that I don't believe I'll try it again.
tgbvmb

Aug 18, 2009

Holiday Popcorn BallsMold popcorn balls around the straight ends of candy canes. Wrap with plastic wrap, tie with ribbon and hang on your Christmas tree by their crooks. They are great gifts for drop-in guests …and recipients have tasty “handles” to hold their popcorn balls. —Kathryn A., Oak Harbor, Washington