2 quarts popped popcorn
1 cup sugar
1/3 cup corn syrup (Karo)
1/3 cup water
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter
1/4 tsp. salt
1 tsp. vanilla

Preheat oven to 250°F. Put popcorn in a large, 4-inch deep buttered baking pan. Keep warm in the oven.

Combine sugar, corn syrup, water, butter and salt in a large saucepan. Stir over medium heat until sugar is dissolved. Cook until mixture reaches 250°F on a candy thermometer, stirring frequently. Remove from heat.

Quickly stir in vanilla. Remove popcorn from oven.

Pour syrup mixture over popcorn, stirring to mix well. Form into balls.

Makes approximately 8 balls.

VARIATIONS:

 • Spice Balls: Substitute 1 tablespoon of powdered spice or crushed herbs for vanilla.
 • Butter Balls: Increase the butter to 1/3 cup.

Cooks Note: Use of a candy thermometer is recommended.

Submitted by: E.W.