Easy Caramel Popcorn Balls Without Corn Syrup
Popcorn is an all-time favorite snack that is enjoyed by both young and old alike. It is a perfect snack for movie nights, game nights, or just pure indulgence. Popcorn balls are an exciting twist to this classic snack, making it convenient to eat, share and even store. And what’s better than the perfect, homemade caramel popcorn balls? But, what if you are not a fan of corn syrup, or you are trying to cut down on your sugar intake? Worry no more! This article will guide you on how to make easy caramel popcorn balls without corn syrup.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following:
- 10 cups of popped popcorn (you can use either microwave or air-popped popcorn)
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make these delicious caramel popcorn balls:
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
- Add the sugar, butter, heavy cream, and salt to a medium-sized saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until everything has melted and combined.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently. Let it boil for 5 minutes without stirring.
- Remove the mixture from the heat and add in the vanilla extract. Stir everything together.
- Add the popped popcorn to a large mixing bowl. Gradually pour the caramel mixture over the popcorn, while stirring to combine.
- Once the popcorn is evenly coated, use a cookie scoop or your hands to shape it into balls. Place the balls on your prepared baking sheet and allow them to cool completely before serving.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind:
- You can add other ingredients like nuts, pretzels, or chocolate chips to the popcorn mix for a different twist.
- Make sure to let the caramel mixture boil for the full 5 minutes to ensure that it thickens enough to coat the popcorn.
- To prevent sticking, lightly coat your hands with cooking spray when shaping the popcorn balls.
- Store the popcorn balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
And there you have it, an easy recipe for delicious caramel popcorn balls without corn syrup. These popcorn balls are perfect for snacking, parties, or even as homemade gifts. By following these simple steps and tips, you can make perfect caramel popcorn balls every time. So, what are you waiting for? Give it a try and enjoy the sweet, crunchy goodness.