Kristen McLane

Posted by Kristen McLane on January 31st, 2008 in Daily Life, Family, Food and Drink, Kids

I found this kid-friendly recipe for Festive Fruity Popcorn Balls. I’ve made popcorn balls but I don’t think I’ve made them yet with my children. My kids love recipes they can help make. This “healthy” variation sounds fun. I’d probably add a few sweets like m&m’s along with the dried fruit to add to the appeal.

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

1/4 cup apple juice or water

3 Tbsp. butter

2 Tbsp. light corn syrup

1/4 tsp. salt

9-10 cups popped popcorn (uncooked kernels removed)

2 cups raisins or apricots (or other dried fruit), diced

Combine the brown sugar, apple juice, butter, corn syrup, and salt in a 2-3 quart saucepan. Boil over medium heat for 5-6 minutes, until the mixture is slightly thickened (250 degrees on a candy thermometer). Place the popcorn and dried fruit in a buttered bowl, and drizzle the hot sugar mixture over them, stirring quickly with a wooden spoon. Kids will love this next part: have them butter their hands and let them quickly shape the mixture into balls. Wrap the popcorn balls in cellophane. Makes 12 popcorn balls.