Roy Jones MD
@rjones
Molasses Popcorn Taffy Balls
A delightful treat combining the crunch of popcorn with the sweetness of molasses taffy. Perfect for parties or as a fun snack, these popcorn balls are easy to make and sure to please both kids and adults alike!
Details
- Difficulty:medium
- Estimated Cost:N/A
- Ingredients:8
- Views:7
Recipe Information
- Prep time50 min.
- Cook time7 min.
- Total time57 min.
- Servings12
Ingredients
- 6 cups
- as needed
- 2 cups
- 1 cup
- 1/2 cup
- 1/2 cup
- 1/4 cup
- 1/2 teaspoon
Cooking Instructions
Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Molasses Popcorn Taffy Balls.
Step 1
Begin by placing the freshly popped popcorn in a spacious bowl, allowing ample room for mixing.
Step 2
Prepare a separate bowl filled with ice water and set out several buttered plates for the taffy pulling stage.
Step 3
In a large 6-quart saucepan, combine white sugar, light corn syrup, dark molasses, water, butter, and salt.
Step 4
Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, and attach a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature.
Step 5
As the mixture heats, bring it to a gentle boil, tilting the pan slightly to help dissolve any sugar crystals clinging to the sides.
Step 6
Use a wooden spoon to scrape down the sides as necessary.
Step 7
Keep heating until the thermometer registers between 300°F and 310°F, or until a small drizzle of syrup dropped into the cold water hardens, which should take about 7 to 10 minutes.
Step 8
Once the syrup reaches the desired temperature, pour approximately 1 cup onto each buttered plate and let it cool for about 3 to 5 minutes until it's safe to handle.
Step 9
When cool enough, pull the syrup between your hands until it transforms into a light golden hue; the longer you pull, the lighter it becomes.
Step 10
Twist the syrup into a long rope, roughly 3/4-inch thick, and place it back on a buttered plate to harden.
Step 11
Once set, break the taffy into bite-sized pieces.
Step 12
Next, carefully pour the remaining hot syrup over the popcorn while someone stirs vigorously to ensure an even coating.
Step 13
To prevent sticking, butter your hands and dip them into the ice water.
Step 14
Quickly grab portions of the popcorn mixture and shape them into 3-inch balls, repeating this process until all the popcorn is formed into delightful treats.
Step 15
Enjoy the sweet, nostalgic experience of making your own popcorn taffy balls, perfect for sharing or savoring on your own.