Description
These festive treats combine sweet and salty flavors into adorable pumpkin-shaped bites that are perfect for Halloween gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup popcorn kernels
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Orange food coloring (a few drops)
- Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips for decoration
Instructions
- 1. Pop Your Popcorn: Start by popping your popcorn kernels using an air popper or stovetop method with a little oil. Transfer the popped popcorn to a large mixing bowl.
- 2. Make the Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil while stirring constantly for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
- 3. Add Color: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in enough orange food coloring to achieve the desired pumpkin hue.
- 4. Combine Popcorn with Caramel: Pour the warm caramel sauce over the popped popcorn while gently stirring to coat each piece evenly.
- 5. Shape into Balls: Let the mixture cool slightly (enough to handle). Grease your palms with butter or cooking spray and form handfuls of popcorn mix into balls about the size of tennis balls.
- 6. Decorate Your Pumpkins: If desired, melt chocolate chips and use them to create cute pumpkin faces on each ball. Allow them to cool until solidified.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 popcorn ball (45g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Store Jack-O’-Lantern Popcorn Balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For added fun, experiment with different food coloring or decorations like sprinkles. Ensure your hands are slightly damp when shaping to prevent sticking.