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Crispy Halloween Popcorn Balls with Candy Corn

Crispy Halloween Popcorn Balls - featured image
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A simple, stovetop treat combining fluffy popcorn, buttery caramel, and candy corn for a nostalgic Halloween snack that is quick to make and perfect for parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 10–12 cups freshly popped popcorn
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup light corn syrup
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 to 1.5 cups candy corn
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch fine sea salt

Instructions

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and cut additional sheets for shaping, greasing them lightly with butter.
  2. In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until foamy.
  3. Add the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  4. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a boil. Do not stir; let it bubble gently.
  5. Cook until the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C), the soft ball stage, approximately 5-7 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt.
  7. Pour the hot caramel over the popcorn and gently fold to coat evenly without crushing kernels.
  8. Quickly fold in the candy corn.
  9. Grease your hands with butter, take about 1/2 cup of the mixture, and shape into a firm ball on the prepared parchment paper.
  10. Let the balls cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to harden.

Notes

Ensure the caramel reaches the soft ball stage (240°F) for crispness. Humidity can make the balls sticky, so store in an airtight container. Do not refrigerate. If the mixture cools too much to shape, gently warm it back up.

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween, popcorn balls, candy corn, caramel, easy dessert, party snack, fall treats, stovetop candy

Find it online: https://grubella.com/crispy-halloween-popcorn-balls-with-candy-corn-5-easy-treats/