How to Make Popcorn Balls Using JELL-O

Popcorn balls become festive and flavorful when made with JELL-O.

Popcorn balls are a favorite treat for parties and holidays. Instead of making plain ones using just sugar and syrup, these goodies can also be flavored using JELL-O in the recipe. JELL-O is a dry mix containing sugar, gelatin, flavoring and food coloring. It is a versatile ingredient in many types of recipes. When mixed with the sugar and syrup, it creates a wonderful sugar glaze to turn popcorn balls into delicious, colorful snacks many will enjoy.

Things You'll Need

• 1 cup popcorn kernels
• Air popcorn popper or microwave
• Large mixing bowl
• Saucepan
• 1-3 oz. JELL-O package
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup sugar
• Large spoon
• Oil or margarine
• Large cookie sheet
• Plastic wrap

Instructions

1. Pop the popcorn using the air popper. If an air popper is not available, pop the corn in the microwave by placing a 1/2 cup of popcorn into a microwave safe bowl with a lid that is left slightly open for venting out the hot air. Set the microwave for 2 minutes and shut off when the popping is nearly ended.

2. Place the popcorn into the large mixing bowl and set aside.

3. Lightly grease the cookie sheet with oil or margarine and set aside.

4. Add the JELL-O mix, corn syrup and sugar in the sauce pan. Cook over medium to high heat, stirring constantly, until it reaches the boiling stage. Continue to boil for 1 minute.

5. Remove the liquid from the stove and drizzle it over the popcorn. Toss it loosely with the large spoon.

6. Pour the mixture onto the cookie sheet and with greased hands quickly form the popcorn into balls.

7. They are ready to eat as soon as they have cooled. Wrap the finished popcorn balls in plastic wrap to keep fresh.

Tips & Warnings

• You can form the balls directly from the bowl if you wish and then place them onto the cookie sheet until you ready to wrap them in plastic wrap.

• Popcorn microwave bowls are available at stores that carry kitchen equipment and cost less than investing in a air popper.

• Pick different colors of JELL-O for different holidays.

• Be careful when forming the balls; some glaze may still be hot and could burn your hands.

Resources

• Cooks.com: Jello Popcorn Balls