Ingredients with Measurements:
- 10 cups popped popcorn
- 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Special equipment needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Candy thermometer
- Parchment paper
- Cooking spray
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the popped popcorn and Rice Krispies cereal. Set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the corn syrup, sugar, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Attach the candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan and continue cooking until the temperature reaches 250°F.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
5. Pour the hot mixture over the popcorn and Rice Krispies cereal, using a wooden spoon to mix until everything is evenly coated.
6. Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes until it is cool enough to handle.
7. Spray your hands with cooking spray and begin forming the mixture into balls, about the size of a tennis ball.
8. Place the popcorn balls on a sheet of parchment paper to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
Cook the mixture until it reaches 250°F.
Serving size:
This recipe makes approximately 12 popcorn balls.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 280
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 100mg
Sugar: 35g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Light corn syrup can be substituted with honey or maple syrup.
- Granulated sugar can be substituted with brown sugar or coconut sugar.
- Unsalted butter can be substituted with salted butter or margarine.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or dried fruit to the mixture before forming into balls.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled popcorn balls for a decadent twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Spray your hands with cooking spray to prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands while forming the balls.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure that the mixture reaches the correct temperature for the best consistency.
- Store the popcorn balls in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Storage instructions:
Store the popcorn balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating instructions:
These popcorn balls are best served at room temperature and do not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the popcorn balls on a platter and sprinkle with powdered sugar for a festive touch.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle the popcorn balls with colored sprinkles or crushed candy canes for a fun and colorful garnish.
Pairings:
Serve these popcorn balls with a glass of cold milk or hot cocoa for a delicious treat.
Suggested side dishes:
These popcorn balls make a great snack on their own, but can also be served with fresh fruit or a cheese plate for a more substantial snack.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the mixture is too sticky to handle, allow it to cool for a few more minutes before forming into balls.
- If the popcorn balls are too hard, reduce the cooking time slightly.
Food safety advice:
Be careful when working with hot sugar syrup, as it can cause serious burns. Use caution and keep children and pets away from the cooking area.
Food history:
Popcorn balls have been a popular treat in the United States since the 1800s. They were often sold at fairs and carnivals and were a favorite among children.
Flavor profiles:
These popcorn balls are sweet and crunchy with a hint of vanilla.
Serving suggestions:
Serve these popcorn balls as a fun and festive snack at your next party or gathering.
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