Popcorn Balls No Corn Syrup No Marshmallows
Popcorn balls are a favorite snack among many families in the United States. They are sweet, crunchy, and easy to make. However, most recipes for popcorn balls call for corn syrup and marshmallows, which some people may not prefer. In this article, we will provide you with a recipe for making delicious popcorn balls without corn syrup or marshmallows.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1/2 cup of honey
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup of peanut butter
- 10 cups of popped popcorn
- 1/2 cup of chopped peanuts (optional)
You can use any type of popcorn for this recipe, but we recommend using air-popped popcorn for a healthier option.
Instructions
Follow these instructions to make popcorn balls without corn syrup or marshmallows:
- In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, honey, water, and salt. Stir continuously over medium heat until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Once the mixture boils, reduce the heat to low and continue stirring for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and turns a light brown color.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and peanut butter until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the mixture over the popped popcorn in a large bowl and mix well until the popcorn is completely coated.
- Add chopped peanuts to the mixture (optional).
- Using your hands, form the mixture into balls about the size of a golf ball. Place the balls on a greased baking sheet to cool and set.
- After the balls have cooled and set, you can wrap them in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container for later use.
Why Choose This Recipe?
This recipe is an excellent alternative for people who do not want to use corn syrup or marshmallows in their popcorn balls. Corn syrup is often used in recipes for its sweetness and stickiness, but it is a highly processed sweetener that contains high amounts of fructose.
Marshmallows, on the other hand, are made with corn syrup and sugar, and also contain artificial colors and flavors. Choosing to make popcorn balls without these ingredients helps to avoid consuming added sugars and artificial ingredients.
This recipe uses honey as a natural sweetener, which has many health benefits. Honey is rich in antioxidants and has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Additionally, this recipe includes peanut butter and chopped peanuts, which are good sources of protein and healthy fats.
Conclusion
Popcorn balls are a fun and tasty snack that can be enjoyed by the whole family. This recipe provides a healthier alternative to traditional popcorn balls by using natural sweeteners and protein-rich ingredients.
Try making these popcorn balls without corn syrup or marshmallows for your next family movie night or party. Your taste buds (and health) will thank you!