My grandmother used to make popcorn balls at Christmas in her old blue enameled turkey roaster with a simple recipe similar to this one. Today's kids would probably be happier with Rice Krispie Treat balls. Mabel Smith's Popcorn Balls 1 (12 oz.) bottle Brer Rabbit Molasses (Full Flavor) 3/4 c. sugar 1 3/4 cup un-popped corn Pop corn and throw away any un-popped kernels. This is a lot of corn and you will need a couple of very large bowls for mixing. Lightly salt, if desired. Mix molasses and sugar in large sauce pan. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Bring to a full boil for approximately 5 minutes. Test by dropping a few drops in very cold water. When it forms a soft ball, mixture is ready. Pour very slowly over corn, a little at a time, stirring often, to make certain all corn is well covered. Butter hands and form into balls. Place on waxed paper.
Bea, homemade popcorn balls were always a failure at our house. They either came out too soft, and fell apart, or the molasses turned sugary. Apparently getting that temperamental little soft ball just right takes real talent---even more difficult than fudge. And trying to eat popcorn balls would take the skin off the inside of your mouth. I do this...
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I'm a popophile too, but NOT the "kettle-corn" style. Pop Secret, microwaved with extra salt added is my favorite.
What's not to love about a mildly flavored carrier for salt & butter that you can eat with your hands? I pop mine with a special microwave popper (although paper bags also work fine), then pile on the melted butter and salt. I couldn't tell you the last time I popped it on the stovetop. But my favorite (that I've not had since I was a kid) is TV Time. I have no idea what that fluorescent yellow goo is they put in that tube, but it sure tastes good...or so I recall. I will not eat the stuff that comes in a microwave popping bag. I just don't like it.
I wonder if I am the only one that has mastered the fine art of eating popcorn without dentures? It is a slow process, but a rewarding one. It is all about the salivation of the exploded kernel.
Alas, I failed miserably whilst trying to eat it WITH dentures so yes, without is soooo much better. No sneaky particles getting under the plate.