Popcorn Balls

Popcorn Balls

Ingredients:

• 7 quarts popped popcorn
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Food coloring, optional
• Festive sprinkles, optional

Directions:

1. Place popcorn in a large baking pan; keep warm in a 200° oven.
2. In a heavy saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, water and salt. Cook over medium heat until a candy thermometer reads 235° (soft-ball stage). Remove from the heat.
3. Add the butter, vanilla and food coloring if desired; stir until butter is melted.
4. Immediately pour over popcorn and stir until evenly coated.
5. When mixture is cool enough to handle, quickly shape into 3-in. balls, dipping hands in cold water to prevent sticking.
6. Wrap each in wax paper for storage.