Pastel Popcorn Balls

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Servings: 16 Difficulty: Intermediate
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Colorful, candy-coated popcorn treats perfect for holidays and parties
Pastel Popcorn Balls recipe image
Pastel Popcorn Balls recipe image
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Pastel Popcorn Balls

Author: chefs-mate Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 16 Calories: 358.8

Description

These Pastel Popcorn Balls are a nostalgic, festive treat that combines the crunch of freshly popped corn with a sweet, glossy coating. Ideal for holidays like Christmas or Easter, they can be tinted in cheerful pastels or vibrant reds and greens. The mixture of corn syrup and sugar creates a firm yet tender bite that holds together perfectly. These easy-to-make confections are wonderful for gift-giving, school events, or as a fun dessert for children. With their playful colors and simple ingredients, they bring a touch of whimsy and sweetness to any gathering.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Heat 1/4 cup vegetable oil in a 4-quart kettle or large pot over medium heat for 3 minutes.
  2. Add 1/2 cup unpopped popcorn kernels to the hot oil.
  3. Cover the pot loosely and shake frequently over medium heat until the popping stops.
  4. In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup light corn syrup, 1/2 cup sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
  5. Add desired food coloring to the syrup mixture (e.g., red or green for holidays).
  6. Add flavoring if desired: wintergreen for green balls, peppermint for red balls.
  7. Pour the hot syrup mixture over the popped corn and stir continuously over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the corn is completely coated.
  8. Lightly butter your hands to prevent sticking.
  9. While the mixture is still warm and pliable, shape it into balls approximately 1 1/2 inches in diameter.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 16

Amount Per Serving
Calories 358.8kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 15.4g24%
Saturated Fat 2.3g12%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 2444.4mg102%
Total Carbohydrate 57.6g20%
Dietary Fiber 0.7g3%
Sugars 40.6g
Protein 1.0g2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Store the popcorn balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

For a vegan variation, ensure the butter used on hands is substituted with a plant-based spread or more vegetable oil.

Work quickly when shaping the balls, as the candy coating will harden as it cools.

You can vary the colors and flavors to match any holiday or party theme.

Keywords: popcorn balls, candy, festive, holiday treat, corn syrup, sweet snack, party food, colorful dessert, easy recipe, gift idea, christmas, easter, homemade candy, crunchy, confection
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