Looking for a quick and delightful treat that requires no baking? These no-bake caramel popcorn balls are here to save the day! Perfect for a movie night or a sweet snack, this recipe transforms simple popcorn into a sticky, sweet delight that everyone will love.
Imagine biting into a ball of fluffy popcorn coated in rich, buttery caramel – it’s a taste sensation that brings back childhood memories. Whether you’re preparing a treat for a party or just satisfying a sweet tooth, these no-bake caramel popcorn balls are a fantastic choice.
These treats are not just easy to make; they are also a fun activity to do with kids or friends. Simply mix, shape, and enjoy! Plus, you can customize them with your favorite add-ins like nuts or chocolate.
Easy No-Bake Caramel Popcorn Balls Recipe
These no-bake caramel popcorn balls are sweet, chewy, and incredibly addictive. Coated in a glossy caramel sauce, they offer a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor. Perfectly sweet with a hint of saltiness, they make for a great snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 cups popped popcorn
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare Popcorn: Pop the popcorn using your preferred method and place it in a large bowl. Make sure to remove any unpopped kernels.
- Make Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, butter, corn syrup, and salt. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. Let it boil for 4-5 minutes without stirring.
- Add Baking Soda: Remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract. The mixture will bubble up.
- Combine: Pour the caramel sauce over the popcorn and mix gently until all the popcorn is evenly coated.
- Form Balls: Once the mixture is cool enough to handle, use your hands (lightly greased) to form the popcorn into balls about the size of a golf ball.
- Cool: Place the popcorn balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool completely.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 12 balls
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 6g
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 23g