Caramel Corn Popcorn Balls

Instructions

1. Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper and set aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl, place the popped popcorn and set it nearby.

3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, corn syrup, and salt. Stir occasionally until the mixture comes to a boil.

4. Once the mixture is boiling, stop stirring and allow it to cook until it reaches 250°F on a candy thermometer (hard ball stage).

5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

6. Pour the hot caramel mixture over the popcorn in the mixing bowl. Using a rubber spatula, gently toss the popcorn to coat it evenly with the caramel.

7. Allow the caramel-coated popcorn to cool slightly to avoid burning your hands when shaping the popcorn balls.

8. With buttered or damp hands, scoop up a portion of the caramel popcorn mixture and shape it into a ball. Press firmly but gently to ensure the popcorn sticks together.

9. Place each popcorn ball on the prepared baking sheet and let them cool completely before serving.

10. For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled popcorn balls or sprinkle with sea salt.