Popcorn Balls

Shortly before our marriage, I came across this recipe for popcorn balls in an old cookbook. Since then, it has provided many hours of fun memories with many different people. I remember as a child lingering by the gourmet popcorn stand in our mall longing after the enormous variety of flavors in enticing colors - and priced outstandingly beyond our frugal budget. Occasionally, a friend would share a bite or two with me. So you see why I was so delighted to find such a simple recipe. I could finally make my own - whatever flavor I desired, and eat to my heart's content! :)
Especially nice for making with a group of people you love, it's easy to turn out loads of balls with plenty to share for everyone - and with a very affordable price tag! In addition, these do make fun gifts wrapped up in a bit of wax paper and tied with ribbon. Plastic wrap may show off the colors better, but it also tears open more easily. They also make an appealing addition to a bake sale, particularly when made in team colors.



Popcorn Balls

16-18 cups of popped popcorn
1 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup sugar
1 pkg. gelatin (4 oz. size) any flavor

Put popcorn in large bowl or pan.
Mix corn syrup and sugar in saucepan; bring to boil.
Boil one minute. Remove from heat.
Stir in gelatin powder until disolved.
Pour over popcorn, stirring to coat popcorn.
Grease hands well.
As soon as it is cool enough to handle, form balls.

Tips:
* When making these with a group, we find it easier to designate jobs. Someone pops the corn, someone mixes the syrup, someone prepares the table and greases little hands, someone stirs the mixture, etc.
* The amount of popped corn you use is adjustable, depending on how heavily coated you like your popcorn.
* Before pouring on hot syrup, remove as many unpopped kernels as you can from your popped corn - makes for a nicer ball without hard kernels to break your teeth. :)
* Use a wooden spoon or utensil with a stiff handle to stir - and someone with muscles.
* We spread a couple of large sheets of wax paper on the table to place our shaped balls on where they continue cooling and hardening.
* We do not like to pack our balls too tightly. It's easier for little teeth to eat them if they are packed gently.
* One batch is not enough. :>