Caramel Popcorn Ball Recipe Without Corn Syrup
Caramel popcorn balls are a classic treat that is enjoyed by many children and adults alike. However, most recipes require corn syrup, which can be a problem for those who are allergic to corn or simply avoid it for various reasons. In this article, we will show you how to make delicious caramel popcorn balls without using corn syrup.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of butter
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup of molasses
- 1/4 cup of honey
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 12 cups of popped popcorn
Note: You can also use other sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar, but the taste and texture may vary.
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 250°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the brown sugar, molasses, honey, vanilla extract, and salt to the saucepan and stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes without stirring. Use a candy thermometer to check if the temperature reaches 250°F.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, pour the caramel sauce over the popcorn and stir until the popcorn is evenly coated.
- Use a spoon or your hands to form popcorn balls that are about 3 inches in diameter.
- Place the popcorn balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they become slightly firm.
- Let the popcorn balls cool completely before serving. You can store them in an airtight container for up to a week.
Tips:
- The caramel sauce can be quite hot, so be careful when handling it.
- You can also add nuts, chocolate chips, or other toppings to the popcorn balls for extra flavor.
- If you don't have a candy thermometer, you can check the caramel sauce by dropping a small amount in a bowl of ice water. If it forms a soft ball, it's ready.
- To prevent the caramel sauce from sticking to your hands, you can lightly coat them with vegetable oil or butter.
Conclusion:
By using molasses and honey instead of corn syrup, you can make delicious caramel popcorn balls that are safe and enjoyable for everyone. This recipe is easy to follow, and you can customize it by adding your favorite toppings or using different sweeteners. Whether you're making them for a party, a movie night, or just a sweet treat, these popcorn balls are sure to be a hit. Enjoy!