Candy Corn Popcorn Balls (Print Version)

Crispy popcorn balls mixed with candy corn—fun, sweet treats ideal for parties or celebrations.

# What You'll Need:

→ Popcorn

01 - 10 cups plain air-popped popcorn (from about 1/2 cup unpopped kernels)

→ Syrup Mixture

02 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter
03 - 1/2 cup light corn syrup
04 - 1 cup granulated sugar
05 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
06 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

→ Add-ins

07 - 1 1/2 cups candy corn
08 - 1/2 cup mini marshmallows (optional)

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease your hands with butter or nonstick spray.
02 - Place popcorn in a large mixing bowl, ensuring all unpopped kernels are discarded.
03 - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add corn syrup, granulated sugar, and salt; stir constantly until the mixture reaches a gentle boil. Continue boiling for 2 to 3 minutes, or until sugar is completely dissolved and syrup appears clear.
04 - Remove saucepan from heat and incorporate vanilla extract, stirring thoroughly.
05 - Immediately pour hot syrup over popcorn. Quickly mix with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula to ensure each kernel is evenly coated.
06 - Gently fold in candy corn and mini marshmallows, if using, until distributed throughout the popcorn.
07 - When the mixture is cool enough to touch yet still moldable, roughly 2 to 3 minutes after stirring in add-ins, shape into 3-inch popcorn balls using greased hands. Compress gently to hold shape without crushing.
08 - Arrange popcorn balls on the prepared baking sheet and allow to cool completely before serving or packaging.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Easy to make with just a few simple steps
  • Uses ingredients you likely already have at home
  • Fun to shape and perfect for getting kids involved
  • Customizable with mix-ins for every palate
  • Brings classic autumn flavors in every bite
02 -
  • Vegetarian friendly treat everyone can enjoy
  • Can be made ahead and stored for busy weeks or parties
  • Bright holiday colors make them a standout on any dessert table
03 -
  • Always use air-popped popcorn and let it cool completely before mixing with syrup
  • If your syrup cools too fast work in smaller batches
  • A silicone spatula helps scrape the bowl and avoid sticky waste
  • Do not skip that final parchment paper step since it makes everything easier to handle and prevents sticking

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