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Caramel Popcorn Halloween Candy Balls

These delectable caramel popcorn balls are a festive treat, blending the crunchy texture of popcorn with soft caramel, perfect for Halloween celebrations.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 12 candy balls
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 10 cups popped popcorn (unpopped kernels and debris removed) Use plain, air-popped popcorn.
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar Provides deep sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter Use coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
  • 1/4 cup light corn syrup Maple syrup or honey can be used as alternatives.
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda Be cautious, it will foam upon mixing.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract Can be replaced by almond extract.
  • to taste Orange and black candy sprinkles (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Place 10 cups of popped popcorn in a very large, heatproof bowl. Remove any unpopped kernels or debris to avoid unpleasant bites later.
  2. Lightly grease your hands and the bowl with butter.
Making the Caramel Sauce
  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1/4 cup light corn syrup, and 1/2 tsp salt.
  2. Stir constantly as the mixture heats, then bring it to a boil.
  3. Once boiling, stop stirring and let it boil for 4 minutes exactly.
Adding Baking Soda and Vanilla
  1. Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully whisk in 1/2 tsp baking soda and 1 tsp vanilla extract.
  2. The caramel will foam up and lighten in color.
Coating the Popcorn
  1. Immediately pour the hot caramel over the popcorn in your prepared bowl.
  2. Use a buttered spatula to quickly toss and stir the popcorn, coating every kernel evenly.
Shaping the Candy Balls
  1. Once the mixture cools enough to handle but is still warm, grease your hands with butter again.
  2. Scoop portions of the popcorn mixture and firmly shape them into 12 tightly packed balls.
Adding Sprinkles and Cooling
  1. If desired, roll each ball in orange and black candy sprinkles while the caramel is still slightly tacky.
  2. Place the finished candy balls on parchment paper and let them cool completely for about 20 minutes until firm enough to hold their shape.
Storage
  1. Once cooled, wrap each candy ball individually in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature.
  2. They will keep fresh for up to 5 days.

Notes

These caramel popcorn candy balls are delightful for Halloween festivities, providing a sweet and crunchy experience.