Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot with lid
- Candy thermometer
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 250°F.
2. In a large pot, heat the popcorn kernels over medium-high heat until they start to pop. Cover the pot with a lid and shake it occasionally until the popping slows down.
3. Remove the pot from the heat and transfer the popcorn to a large mixing bowl.
4. In a separate pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the granulated sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt, and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
5. Increase the heat to medium-high and attach a candy thermometer to the pot. Cook the mixture until it reaches 250°F, stirring occasionally.
6. Pour the hot mixture over the popcorn and stir until the popcorn is evenly coated.
7. Spread the popcorn onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15 minutes.
8. Remove the popcorn from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
9. Pour the powdered sugar into a large plastic bag and add the popcorn. Shake the bag until the popcorn is coated with powdered sugar.
10. Serve the snowball popcorn immediately or store it in an airtight container.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat oven to 250°F
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Salted butter can be used instead of unsalted butter.
- Honey can be used instead of corn syrup.
- Brown sugar can be used instead of granulated sugar.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts or dried fruit to the popcorn mixture before baking.
- Use different flavors of extract, such as almond or maple, for a different taste.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a large pot to prevent the popcorn from overflowing.
- Stir the popcorn mixture gently to avoid breaking the popcorn.
- Let the popcorn cool for a few minutes before adding the powdered sugar to prevent it from melting.
Storage instructions:
- Store the snowball popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the snowball popcorn, place it in the oven at 250°F for 5-10 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the snowball popcorn in a large bowl or on a platter.
- Sprinkle extra powdered sugar on top for a snowy effect.
Garnishes:
- Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies can be sprinkled on top for a festive touch.
Pairings:
- Serve the snowball popcorn with hot cocoa or apple cider.
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit or vegetables can be served alongside the snowball popcorn for a balanced snack.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the popcorn mixture is too sticky, add more powdered sugar until it reaches the desired consistency.
Food safety advice:
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches the correct temperature to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Popcorn has been a popular snack food for centuries, dating back to ancient civilizations in the Americas.
Flavor profiles:
- The snowball popcorn has a sweet and buttery flavor with a crunchy texture.
Serving suggestions:
- The snowball popcorn is perfect for a holiday party or movie night.
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