Homemade Popcorn Balls Recipe
Soft, sweet, and perfectly chewy, this easy homemade popcorn balls recipe makes a treat that tastes just like the ones you remember. Make them classic or turn them into caramel-style popcorn balls with one simple upgrade!
Ingredients
6 Tbsp. butter
5 cups marshmallows
2 qts. popped popcorn*
Optional (for caramel-style flavor):
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-low heat. (If making the caramel-style version, add the brown sugar now and stir until dissolved.)
- Add the marshmallows and stir constantly until completely melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla, if using.
- Add the popped popcorn (and any optional candies or nuts). Gently stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Butter your hands well. Scoop and shape the mixture into balls, or press it into a well-buttered 9×13-inch pan.
- Place popcorn balls on wax or parchment paper and let cool until set.
- Store in an airtight container or wrap individually in plastic wrap.
Notes
- For a caramel-corn flavor, add ½ cup brown sugar + ½ tsp vanilla when melting the butter.
- To remove unpopped kernels, dump the popcorn onto a clean surface first. Scoop it back into the bowl by handfuls, leaving the unpopped “old maids” behind.
- These popcorn balls are great for parties, lunchbox treats, or holiday gifting.
* Popcorn guide:
¼ cup unpopped kernels = about 2 quarts popped popcorn.
Find it online: https://www.livingonadime.com/homemade-popcorn-balls/
