Soft Popcorn Balls

Eating popcorn balls is so...fun. It just reminds you of being a kid again. I looked around in recipe books forever for a soft popcorn ball that doesn't break your teeth and never had any luck. Then, one year about 10 years ago I bought a Susan Branch Calendar. Don't you just love her? She makes everything so adorable. And she sneaks in little recipes in the illustrations sometimes. And lo, and behold, she had a yummy, soft, popcorn ball recipe in the month of October. Here's the recipe so you'll be ready for the fall flavors. Then again, caramel is great in the summer!

Old-Fashioned Popcorn Balls
By Susan Branch

8 cups plain air-popped popcorn
½ cup light corn syrup
½ cup water
1 tsp white vinegar
¼ tsp salt
¾ c brown sugar
¾ c white sugar
¾ cup butter

Put popcorn in extra large bowl, culling out unpopped kernels.. Bring all other ingredients except butter to a boil. Stir constantly to 260 on candy thermometer. Remove from heat, stir in butter until melted. Pour slowly over popcorn, stirring to coat. Cool slightly, butter hands and shape into 3” balls. Place on waxed paper or tin foil.

Happy Eating!