Description
Sweet caramel popcorn balls deliver a nostalgic crunch that blends childhood memories with gourmet charm. Sticky kernels bound together by golden caramel create an irresistible treat you’ll savor with pure delight.
Ingredients
Scale
- 10 cups popped popcorn (about ½ cup / 120 ml unpopped kernels)
- 1 cup / 227 g unsalted butter
- 2 cups / 400 g light brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup / 120 ml light corn syrup
- ½ tsp / 2.5 ml salt
- 1 tsp / 5 ml vanilla extract
- ½ tsp / 2.5 ml baking soda
Instructions
- Kernel Preparation: Meticulously sift through popcorn, eliminating unpopped kernels and setting aside the perfect batch.
- Caramel Crafting: In a saucepan, gently melt butter over medium heat, then incorporate brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Allow the mixture to reach a rolling boil, stirring consistently for 5 minutes without interruption.
- Flavor Enhancement: Remove caramel from heat, vigorously stirring in vanilla and baking soda until the mixture transforms into a light, frothy concoction that bubbles with anticipation.
- Popcorn Transformation: Drizzle the molten caramel over the prepared popcorn, using a spatula to ensure each kernel is lavishly and uniformly coated with the golden-brown glaze.
- Artisan Shaping: Once the mixture slightly cools, lubricate hands with butter or cooking spray, then skillfully mold the caramel-kissed popcorn into compact, uniform spheres roughly 2-3 inches in diameter.
- Cooling and Presentation: Arrange the freshly formed popcorn orbs on parchment paper, allowing them to cool completely before serving these delectable, glossy treats.
Notes
- Remove all unpopped kernels before coating to prevent unexpected hard bites and ensure smooth eating experience.
- Watch the sugar mixture carefully during boiling to prevent burning; use a candy thermometer for consistent results around 250-255°F.
- Always grease hands thoroughly with butter or cooking spray when shaping balls to prevent sticky caramel from clinging and burning fingers.
- Wrap individual popcorn balls in wax paper or plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent them from sticking together, keeping them crisp for several days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Desserts
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 13
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg