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Crispy Cracker Jack Popcorn Balls

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A nostalgic sweet and crunchy treat combining crispy popcorn, caramel glaze, and salty roasted peanuts, perfect for snacks, parties, and gifting.

Ingredients

Scale
  • About 12 cups popped popcorn kernels (preferably air-popped)
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • ½ cup light corn syrup
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup roasted peanuts
  • A pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Pop about 12 cups of popcorn kernels using your preferred method. Remove any unpopped kernels and set popcorn aside in a large mixing bowl lined with parchment paper.
  2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, softened unsalted butter, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently but constantly to dissolve sugar and melt butter. Once bubbling, stop stirring and cook until deep golden amber color (about 5-7 minutes) or 250°F (121°C) if using a candy thermometer.
  3. Remove saucepan from heat and quickly stir in baking soda and vanilla extract. The mixture will foam up, creating a crispy, airy texture.
  4. Immediately pour hot caramel over popcorn and roasted peanuts. Gently fold with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula to coat every kernel evenly.
  5. Let mixture cool for 3-5 minutes until safe to handle. Lightly butter your hands or use parchment paper to shape mixture into balls about 2.5 inches (6 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cool completely for about 30 minutes before serving or packaging.

Notes

Use fresh popcorn for best texture. Butter or oil hands before shaping to prevent sticking. Work quickly when mixing caramel and popcorn. Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to a month. Variations include chocolate drizzle, nut-free seeds, spiced caramel, and smaller bite-sized balls.

Nutrition

Keywords: popcorn balls, Cracker Jack, caramel popcorn, sweet snack, popcorn treat, peanuts, caramel glaze, nostalgic snack

Find it online: https://rowanrecipes.com/crispy-cracker-jack-popcorn-balls-recipe-5-easy-steps-for-sweet-crunch/