Description
Indulge in the sweet and salty delight of homemade caramel popcorn balls. These treats are perfect for movie nights, parties, or just a fun snack. With simple ingredients like popcorn, caramel, and a pinch of salt, they’re easy to make and sure to impress. Create a delicious balance of flavors and textures with this easy-to-follow recipe.
Ingredients
1/2 cup popcorn kernels (unpopped)
1 cup light corn syrup
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Optional add-ins: nuts (peanuts, almonds, etc.), chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg
Instructions
Pop the Popcorn: Pop the popcorn kernels using a stovetop or popcorn machine. Set the popcorn aside in a large bowl.
Make the Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the corn syrup, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and butter. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally. Once it starts to boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Add Baking Soda and Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract. The caramel will bubble up, so stir carefully.
Coat the Popcorn: Pour the hot caramel sauce over the popped popcorn. Stir gently to coat all of the popcorn evenly.
Shape into Balls: Allow the caramel-coated popcorn to cool for a few minutes. Once it’s cool enough to handle, lightly grease your hands and form the mixture into balls. You can use a small ice cream scoop or your hands to shape the balls.
Let the Caramel Popcorn Balls Set: Allow the caramel popcorn balls to cool and harden. Let them sit at room temperature or in the fridge for about 30 minutes.
Notes
Use fresh, unsalted popcorn for the best results.
You can add mix-ins like nuts, chocolate, or a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor.
Store the popcorn balls in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack, Dessert
- Method: Stovetop, No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Caramel Popcorn Balls, Homemade Popcorn, Party Snack, Sweet and Salty Treat, Movie Night Snack, Easy Dessert, DIY Popcorn Balls