Popcorn Balls

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Makes: 15 2-3" balls.

Ingredients:

1. 18 c plain white popped corn
2. 2 c sugar
3. 1 1/3 c water
4. 1/2 c light corn syrup
5. 1 tsp white vinegar
6. 1/2 tsp salt
7. 1 tsp vanilla extract
   

Optional Ingredients:

1. For colored balls add 3/4 tsp food coloring
   
2. For candy balls add: 2-2 1/2 c your choice sweets, such as: candy corn, m&ms, mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, graham cracker bears
   

Directions:

1. Pop popcorn, removing unpopped kernels & set aside.
2. Put candy in a medium bowl & set aside.
   
3. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, syrup, vinegar, & salt.
4. Optional- Add food coloring.
   
5. Cook over high heat until mixture reaches 255F (hard-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
6. Stir in vanilla.
7. Pour over popped corn, tossing gently to coat.
8. When mixture is cool enough to handle, press popcorn into 3-inch balls with lightly greased hands.
9. Optional- Roll popcorn balls in candy.
   
10. Place on waxed paper & allow to cool completely.
11. Wrap in plastic wrap & tie with yarn.