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Old-Time Popcorn Balls

TOTAL TIME: Prep/Total Time: 30 min. YIELD: 8 servings.
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 clear wrap and tied with a festive ribbon. —LaReine Stevens, Ypsilanti, Michigan

Ingredients

  • 2 quarts popped popcorn
  • 1/2 cup molasses
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/3 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

Directions

  • 1. Place popcorn in a large bowl and set aside. In a large heavy saucepan, combine molasses, sugar, water, vinegar and butter. Cook, without stirring, over medium heat until mixture reaches 235° on a candy thermometer (soft-ball stage). Add baking soda and stir well.
  • 2. 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.

Nutrition Facts

1 popcorn ball: 170 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 159mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (24g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.

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