Sweet and Chewy Popcorn Balls
Indulge in the delightful crunch and chewiness of these Sweet and Chewy Popcorn Balls, a classic treat that’s perfect for parties, snack time, or holiday festivities. Made from simple ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, and buttery margarine, these popcorn balls bring together the irresistible taste of popcorn with a sweet glaze that binds each fluffy kernel into perfect spheres. Easy to make and even easier to share, this fun dessert will surely be a hit with both kids and adults alike!
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Sugar
1/2 cup (Granulated)
White corn syrup
1/8 cup (Liquid)
Margarine
1/4 cup (Softened (half a stick))
Salt
1/8 teaspoon (Fine)
Vanilla extract or almond extract
1/4 teaspoon (Liquid)
Popped corn
2 quarts (Freshly popped (about 1 microwave bag))
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, white corn syrup, margarine, and salt. Bring the mixture to a soft boil over medium heat while stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
2
Once boiling, continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes without stirring until the mixture becomes slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
3
Carefully add the vanilla or almond extract to the mixture, stirring well to combine all the flavors.
4
In a large bowl, pour the warm syrup over the freshly popped popcorn. Gently fold the popcorn until evenly coated, making sure to cover all the kernels.
5
Let the mixture cool for a few minutes until it's warm but manageable. Lightly grease your hands with a bit of margarine to prevent sticking.
6
Grab a handful of the popcorn mixture and form it into balls about the size of a golf ball. Place completed popcorn balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool completely.
7
Once cooled and set, enjoy your Sweet and Chewy Popcorn Balls!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Sweet and Chewy Popcorn Balls?
Sweet and Chewy Popcorn Balls are a classic treat made from popcorn bound together by a sweet glaze of sugar, corn syrup, and margarine.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
What ingredients are needed for the syrup?
The syrup is made using 1/2 cup sugar, 1/8 cup white corn syrup, 1/4 cup margarine, and 1/8 teaspoon salt.
How much popcorn is required for this recipe?
You will need 2 quarts of freshly popped corn, which is roughly equivalent to one microwave bag.
Can I use almond extract instead of vanilla?
Yes, you can use either 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract depending on your flavor preference.
How long should the syrup mixture be boiled?
After reaching a soft boil, the mixture should cook for an additional 2-3 minutes without stirring.
Do I need to stir the mixture while it is boiling?
You should stir occasionally while bringing it to a boil, but do not stir during the final 2-3 minutes of cooking.
What type of sugar should I use?
The recipe calls for granulated sugar.
Can I substitute butter for margarine?
Yes, butter can be used as a substitute for the 1/4 cup of margarine.
How do I prevent the popcorn mixture from sticking to my hands?
Lightly grease your hands with a bit of margarine before you begin shaping the popcorn balls.
What size should the popcorn balls be?
The recipe suggests forming the mixture into balls about the size of a golf ball.
How do I ensure the popcorn is evenly coated with syrup?
Pour the warm syrup over the popcorn in a large bowl and gently fold it until every kernel is well-coated.
Is microwave popcorn suitable for this recipe?
Yes, freshly popped microwave popcorn works well as long as it measures out to 2 quarts.
Where should the finished popcorn balls be placed to cool?
Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to allow them to cool and set completely.
Are these popcorn balls good for parties?
Yes, they are described as a perfect treat for parties, snack time, or holiday festivities.
When should I add the extract to the mixture?
Remove the syrup from the heat first, then carefully stir in the vanilla or almond extract.
How long should I wait before shaping the balls?
Let the coated popcorn cool for a few minutes until it is warm but comfortable enough to handle with your hands.
What is the texture of these popcorn balls?
They offer a combination of a crunchy popcorn center with a sweet and chewy exterior glaze.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is considered an easy recipe using simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
What kind of salt is best for this recipe?
Fine salt is recommended for the 1/8 teaspoon required in the syrup.
Can I double this recipe for a larger group?
Yes, you can double the ingredients to make a larger batch, though you may need a very large bowl for mixing.
Does the syrup need to be hot when poured?
Yes, the syrup should be warm when poured over the popcorn to ensure it flows easily and coats the kernels.
Why is white corn syrup used?
White corn syrup acts as a binding agent and helps create the desired chewy texture of the glaze.
How much margarine is 1/4 cup?
1/4 cup of margarine is equal to half a standard stick.
Can I add other mix-ins like nuts?
While the basic recipe is simple, you can add nuts or small candies during the folding process if desired.
How should I store the popcorn balls?
Once completely cooled, store them in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap.
What should I do if the syrup gets too hard?
If the syrup hardens too much before you finish shaping, you can briefly and very gently warm the mixture.
Are these popcorn balls gluten-free?
The standard ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels on your specific brands.
Should the popcorn be salted before adding syrup?
The recipe includes salt in the syrup, so it is usually best to use unsalted or lightly salted popcorn.
Is this a good holiday snack?
Yes, these are a classic holiday snack that both kids and adults enjoy.