Ingredients:

7 quarts popped popcorn

1 cup sugar or brown sugar (brown sugar will darken the color of the balls)

1 cup light corn syrup

¼ cup water

3 tbl butter

1 tbl vanilla extract

1 tsp salt

Directions:

1. 1. Keep popped popcorn warm in a 200°F oven while you make the candy.
2. 2. In a heavy saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, water and salt. Cook over medium heat until a candy thermometer reads 235° (soft ball stage).
3. 3. Remove from the heat and add the butter and vanilla. Add food coloring if desired. Stir until butter is melted. Immediately pour over popcorn and stir to coat evenly.
4. 4. When mixture is cool enough to handle, quickly shape into 3 or 4-inch balls. Rinse hands in cold water frequently to prevent sticking. Place on wax paper until completely cooled, about 15 minutes.

Bon Appetit!