Easy Peanut Butter Popcorn Balls

Sweet, chewy popcorn balls loaded with creamy peanut butter come together fast on the stovetop. Great for parties and movie night.

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Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 6

Total Time: 21

Servings: 12

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

▢ 10 cup popped popcorn Pick out and discard any unpopped kernels.
▢ 7 tbsp light corn syrup
▢ 6 tbsp granulated sugar
▢ 0.5 cup creamy peanut butter Smooth-style works best.
▢ 2 tbsp unsalted butter
▢ 1 tsp vanilla extract
▢ 0.25 tsp fine salt

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Line a baking sheet with parchment. Lightly oil your hands or a scoop.
Place the popcorn in a very large bowl and remove any unpopped kernels.
Heat corn syrup, sugar, and butter in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until dissolved. Simmer 2 minutes.
Take the pan off heat. Stir in peanut butter and salt until smooth, then mix in vanilla.
Pour the warm mixture over the popcorn. Toss gently with a spatula until evenly coated.
Let cool 2–3 minutes. With oiled hands, form 12 balls, pressing just until they hold.
Set the balls on the baking sheet and let firm up about 15 minutes before serving.

Notes

Try stirring in a handful of chopped roasted peanuts or drizzling the set balls with melted chocolate. For a softer chew, swap half the corn syrup for honey. To store, wrap each ball tightly in plastic and keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy Peanut Butter Popcorn Balls flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.