Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
- 1/2 cup crispy bacon bits
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot with lid
- Candy thermometer
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Parchment paper
- Cooking spray
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels in a large pot with a lid over medium-high heat. Once the popping slows down, remove from heat and transfer the popcorn to a large mixing bowl.
2. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the corn syrup, sugar, and salt, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Insert the candy thermometer and continue boiling until the temperature reaches 250°F.
4. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and mini marshmallows until melted.
5. Pour the mixture over the popcorn and add the crispy bacon bits. Use a wooden spoon to stir until the popcorn is coated evenly.
6. Spray your hands with cooking spray and shape the mixture into balls, about 2-3 inches in diameter.
7. Place the popcorn balls on a sheet of parchment paper to cool and set.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Medium-high heat for popping popcorn
Medium heat for melting butter and sugar mixture
High heat for boiling sugar mixture
Serving size:
Makes 8-10 popcorn balls
Nutritional information:
Per serving (1 popcorn ball):
Calories: 200
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 190mg
Sugar: 24g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use microwave popcorn instead of popping your own kernels.
- If you don't have light corn syrup, you can use honey or maple syrup instead.
- You can use regular-sized marshmallows instead of mini marshmallows.
- If you don't eat bacon, you can omit it or use crispy tofu bits instead.
Variations:
- Add chocolate chips or M&M's for a sweet and salty treat.
- Use different types of nuts, such as peanuts or pecans, instead of bacon.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a fall twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Be careful when boiling the sugar mixture, as it can get very hot.
- Spray your hands with cooking spray to prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands when shaping the popcorn balls.
- Store the popcorn balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Storage instructions:
Store the popcorn balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
You can reheat the popcorn balls in the microwave for a few seconds to soften them up.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the popcorn balls on a platter with a fun piggy-themed decoration.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle extra bacon bits on top of the popcorn balls for added flavor.
Pairings:
Serve the popcorn balls with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve the popcorn balls as a snack or dessert on their own.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sugar mixture doesn't reach 250°F, the popcorn balls may not hold their shape. Make sure to use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature.
- If the popcorn balls are too sticky, you may have added too much marshmallow. Try adding more popcorn to balance it out.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to use a clean pot and utensils when making the popcorn balls to prevent contamination.
Food history:
Popcorn balls have been a popular snack in the United States since the late 1800s.
Flavor profiles:
Sweet and salty, with a hint of smoky bacon flavor.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the popcorn balls as a fun and unique snack at a party or gathering.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A