Basic Popcorn Balls

Vegetarian
Gluten Free
Basic Popcorn Balls
45 min.
6
314kcal

Suggestions


Are you looking for a delightful treat that combines nostalgia with a touch of creativity? Look no further than these Basic Popcorn Balls! Perfect for any occasion, these sweet and crunchy snacks are not only vegetarian and gluten-free, but they also come together in just 45 minutes. With a satisfying blend of textures and flavors, they make for an irresistible dessert that both kids and adults will love.

The magic of popcorn balls lies in their simplicity. Made with just a handful of ingredients, including light corn syrup, granulated sugar, and a hint of vanilla, these treats are a fantastic way to indulge your sweet tooth without the fuss. The process of making them is just as enjoyable as eating them—watch as the sugar mixture transforms into a glossy coating that clings to each fluffy popcorn kernel, creating a delightful crunch in every bite.

Whether you're hosting a movie night, celebrating a birthday, or simply craving a sweet snack, these popcorn balls are sure to impress. They can be easily customized with your favorite add-ins, such as chocolate chips or sprinkles, making them a versatile treat for any palate. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create a batch of these scrumptious popcorn balls that will have everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients

  • 0.3 cup plus light
  • cup granulated sugar 
  • teaspoon kosher salt 
  • cups popped popcorn plain
  • tablespoons butter unsalted cut into small pieces ()
  • 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract 
  • 0.3 cup water 
  • teaspoon vinegar white

Equipment

  • bowl
  • sauce pan
  • baking paper
  • kitchen thermometer
  • spatula

Directions

  1. Coat a large heatproof bowl with butter, vegetable oil, or cooking spray and place popcorn in the bowl.
  2. Place sugar, corn syrup, water, vinegar, and salt in a medium saucepan and stir to combine.
  3. Place over high heat, stirring until sugar is dissolved, about 2 minutes. Bring to a boil and cook until mixture registers 260°F on a candy/fat thermometer, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla until melted and smooth.Immediately drizzle sugar mixture over popcorn and stir continuously with a rubber spatula, scraping the bottom of the bowl, until popcorn is thoroughly coated and cool enough to handle, about 3 minutes.Using buttered or oiled hands, tightly press mixture (it may still be a bit warm) into 3-inch rounds.
  5. Place on waxed or parchment paper to cool completely, about 15 to 20 minutes.

Nutrition Facts

Calories314kcal
Protein2.7%
Fat23.25%
Carbs74.05%

Properties

Glycemic Index
34.24
Glycemic Load
32.97
Inflammation Score
-2
Nutrition Score
2.6795651860859%

Nutrients percent of daily need

Calories:313.83kcal
15.69%
Fat:8.46g
13.02%
Saturated Fat:4.89g
30.55%
Carbohydrates:60.65g
20.22%
Net Carbohydrates:58.26g
21.18%
Sugar:48.01g
53.34%
Cholesterol:20.07mg
6.69%
Sodium:402.71mg
17.51%
Alcohol:0.11g
100%
Alcohol %:0.16%
100%
Protein:2.21g
4.43%
Fiber:2.39g
9.57%
Manganese:0.19mg
9.38%
Phosphorus:61.36mg
6.14%
Magnesium:24.33mg
6.08%
Vitamin A:265.58IU
5.31%
Zinc:0.61mg
4.04%
Iron:0.55mg
3.05%
Copper:0.05mg
2.49%
Vitamin B3:0.39mg
1.93%
Vitamin B1:0.03mg
1.92%
Vitamin E:0.26mg
1.76%
Potassium:57.97mg
1.66%
Vitamin B2:0.02mg
1.38%
Folate:5.39µg
1.35%
Vitamin B6:0.03mg
1.31%
Source:Chow