Imagine a treat that combines the nostalgic crunch of popcorn with the irresistible sweetness of candy corn - a dessert that's not just a snack, but a festive experience! These Candy Corn Popcorn Balls are the ultimate Halloween indulgence that will transport you back to childhood memories while creating new ones. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or when you're craving something uniquely delicious, this recipe is about to become your new seasonal obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 balls
Ingredients
- 8 cups popped popcorn
- 1 cup candy corn
- 1 cup marshmallows
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare a large mixing bowl by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the 8 cups of freshly popped popcorn into the prepared mixing bowl, ensuring there are no unpopped kernels.
- In a medium saucepan, combine butter, sugar, corn syrup, and marshmallows over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
- Remove the melted mixture from heat and stir in vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to incorporate.
- Pour the warm marshmallow mixture over the popcorn, and gently fold with a spatula to ensure even coating.
- Add candy corn pieces and continue mixing carefully to distribute evenly throughout the popcorn mixture.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly until it's comfortable to handle, approximately 3-5 minutes.
- Grease your hands with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking, then carefully shape the mixture into round balls, pressing firmly to compact.
- Place the formed popcorn balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet to set and cool completely.
- Once cooled, wrap individual popcorn balls in wax paper or plastic wrap for storage or serving.
Tips
- Use freshly popped popcorn for the best texture and flavor. Avoid using stale or pre-packaged popcorn.
- Grease your hands thoroughly before shaping the balls to prevent the mixture from sticking and make forming easier.
- Work quickly when shaping the balls - the mixture becomes harder to mold as it cools down.
- For a fun variation, try adding different colored candy corn or sprinkles for extra festive flair.
- Store popcorn balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness.
- If the mixture is too sticky, let it cool for a few more minutes before shaping.
- For kid-friendly fun, let children help decorate or wrap the popcorn balls in themed wax paper.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 200kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
