Popcorn Balls

There’s something about old-fashioned popcorn balls that just makes me smile. They’re simple, a little sticky, and somehow manage to taste like childhood in every bite. If you grew up with them, you know exactly what I mean — that buttery-sweet smell filling the kitchen, hands covered in syrup, and someone inevitably yelling, “Don’t touch them yet, they’re hot!” It’s one of those recipes that feels like home no matter how many years go by.

I love that popcorn balls are the kind of treat that don’t try too hard. They’re not fancy, they don’t require a mixer or a long list of ingredients — just popped popcorn, sugar, corn syrup, butter, and a little vanilla. Simple, sweet, and totally nostalgic. The kind of recipe you can whip up on a rainy afternoon or as a last-minute holiday treat. And bonus — you probably already have everything you need sitting in your pantry.

When I make these, it instantly feels like a throwback. I remember standing in my grandma’s kitchen, watching her stir that bubbling syrup while we waited impatiently for our turn to shape the popcorn balls. She’d always tell us to “be careful, it’s hot!” but of course, we couldn’t resist sneaking a piece anyway. Now, my kids hover around the counter just like I used to — giggling, stealing bits of sticky popcorn, and leaving little trails of sugar everywhere. It’s messy, it’s chaotic, and it’s perfect.

The best part about popcorn balls is how easy they are to make your own. You can keep them classic or add your own twist — toss in festive sprinkles, drizzle with melted chocolate, or even mix in some mini marshmallows if you’re feeling extra fun. Around Halloween, I’ll use orange and black sprinkles and wrap them up for the kids’ friends. At Christmas, it’s red and green all the way. They look adorable tied up in cellophane with a little ribbon, and they make such a cute (and super inexpensive) homemade gift.

And listen — if you’ve never made them before, don’t overthink it. The syrup part sounds fancy, but it’s literally just stirring butter, sugar, and corn syrup together on the stove until it boils for a couple minutes. Once you add the vanilla and baking soda, it’ll puff up slightly (that’s your cue to move fast!). Pour it over the popcorn, mix it up, and shape them before they cool too much. I like to butter my hands just a bit to make rolling easier… plus, it smells amazing.

They’re sweet, crunchy, and a little chewy — kind of like caramel corn’s fun cousin. And they’re the kind of snack that disappears fast because no one can eat just one. My kids love them. I love them.

These popcorn balls are the definition of simple joy. They’re a little bit messy, a little bit nostalgic, and a whole lot of fun. Whether you’re making them for a holiday, a movie night, or just because you need a little pick-me-up, they’re the kind of treat that brings everyone together. And honestly, that’s my favorite kind of recipe; the ones that make you slow down, laugh a little, and enjoy the moment.

Because life’s too short not to get a little sticky every now and then.

Ingredients for Popcorn Balls

How to make Popcorn Balls: ingredients you need!

12 cups popped popcorn

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup Karo Corn Syrup

1/4 cup butter or margarine

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

3 tablespoons festive sprinkles (optional)

Popcorn Balls Video Tutorial

For those of you who would love a visual step-by-step tutorial here is one for you of these yummy Popcorn Balls!

How to Make Popcorn Balls

How to make Popcorn Balls: a step by step guide

Combine sugar, corn syrup, butter and salt.

Bring this mixture to a boil while stirring constantly. Once it starts boiling, boil for 2 minutes – and keep stirring constantly!

Once 2 minutes has passed, remove the syrup mixture from heat. Stir in vanilla and baking soda.

Pour mixture over popcorn and stir to combine

Add in fun festive extras (sprinkles, M&Ms, etc.) to make these balls pop!

Let cool slightly and shape into twelve 3-inch popcorn balls.

Popcorn Balls: SIDE IDEA

These popcorn Balls are so yummy with my Pumpkin Spice Martini or for a non alcoholic version, check out my Iced Pumpkin Spice Chia Tea Latte (it's a Starbucks copycat!!)

Crazy Busy Mama Tip

Grease up your hands! It makes shaping the balls so much easier!

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Mama, If you give this Popcorn Balls recipe a try and love it, I’d be thrilled if you could leave a comment and a 5-star rating below! Your feedback not only makes my day but also helps me understand what kinds of recipes you'd like to see more of.

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More Easy Fall Dessert Recipes

If you love this Popcorn Balls, be sure to check out these other easy Fall Dessert recipes that will add fun and flavor to every meal.

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