Candycorn Balls

Prep: 15 min Makes: 18 to 24 balls
Courtesy: Family Fun Magazine

Ingredients

1. 12 c popped popcorn
2. 1 1/2 c candy corn
3. 3/4 c brown sugar
4. 3/4 cup corn syrup
5. 6 Tbs butter
6. 1/2 tsp salt

Directions:

1. Put popcorn into a mixing bowl large enough to allow for stirring.
2. Mix in candy corn.
3. Fill a medium sized bowl with ice water & set out a cookie sheet or a piece of waxed paper.
4. Mix brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, & salt in a 4-quart pot.
5. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, stirring constantly.
6. Stop stirring & let the syrup boil until an inserted candy thermometer reaches 275ºF (a parent's job).
7. Carefully pour the syrup over the popcorn & stir well with a wooden spoon to evenly coat the kernels & candy. Cool slightly.
8. Quickly dip your hands into the ice water and shape the popcorn into 3-inch balls.
9. Place on waxed paper to cool completely.
10. Tightly wrap the balls individually in plastic-wrap.