Favorite Popcorn Balls

Directions

1. 1
   Place popcorn in large bowl or roasting pan; set aside.
2. 2
   Combine sugar, corn syrup, boiling water and vinegar in 3-quart heavy saucepan.
3. 3
   Cook, stirring occasionally, over medium heat 6-8 minutes or until mixture comes to a boil.
4. 4
   Stir in cream of tartar.
5. 5
   Continue cooking, stirring occasionally 15-18 minutes or until mixture reaches 270F or small amount dropped in ice water forms a hard but elastic strand.
6. 6
   Remove from heat; add butter, soda and vanilla.
7. 7
   Stir until butter is melted and mixture is combined.
8. 8
   Pour syrup mixture over popcorn.
9. 9
   (Mixture will be very hot.)
10. 10
    Stir until all popcorn is coated.
11. 11
    Gently stir in candy.
12. 12
    Shape, using buttered hands and working quickly, about 1 cup popcorn mixture into a ball.
13. 13
    Place onto waxed paper.
14. 14
    Repeat with remaining popcorn.
15. 15
    Cool completely.