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Caramel Apple Popcorn Balls

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Relive cozy memories with these Caramel Apple Popcorn Balls, a delightful and surprisingly simple treat combining the classic flavors of caramel apples with the crunch of popcorn.

Ingredients

Scale

Main ingredients

  • 12 Caramel Apple Cow Tales® (secret weapon for flavor and chew)
  • 0.5 cup corn kernels (for popping)
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (to pop corn)
  • 0.5 cup butter (1 stick, foundation for caramel)
  • 1 cup sugar (for caramel)
  • 0.33 cup light corn syrup (for smooth caramel)
  • 3 oz apple-flavored gelatin (1 box, for apple flavor and color)

Instructions

  1. Pop your corn: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or air popper over medium-high heat. Add corn kernels, cover, and shake. Remove from heat when popping slows. Pour popped corn into a large bowl.
  2. Craft the caramel: In a medium saucepan, combine butter, sugar, and light corn syrup. Heat over medium heat, stirring until butter melts and sugar dissolves.
  3. Boil to perfection: Bring the caramel mixture to a rolling boil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the hard-ball stage (around 245°F/118°C or when a small amount forms firm, pliable balls in ice water).
  4. Infuse the apple: Remove caramel from heat and quickly stir in apple-flavored gelatin until dissolved and the caramel has an apple tint.
  5. Marry the flavors: Swiftly pour the warm caramel over the popped popcorn. Gently stir with a greased spatula to coat evenly.
  6. Add the chew: While the caramel is still warm and pliable, cut Caramel Apple Cow Tales® into bite-sized pieces and press them into the popcorn mixture.
  7. Let magic set: Allow the popcorn mixture to cool completely (1-2 hours) until firm. Gently break apart into individual popcorn balls or clusters.

Notes

For extra crunch, add chopped peanuts or pecans. Experiment with other gelatin flavors like cherry or strawberry. A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth. Grease hands and tools to handle sticky caramel. Don’t overcook the caramel. Work quickly once caramel is made. Popcorn can be popped a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.

Find it online: https://speedydishes.com/caramel-apple-popcorn-balls-recipe/