Popcorn Owls

Directions

1. 1
   Place popcorn in a large bowl; keep warm in a 200 F oven.
2. 2
   In a heavy saucepan, combine the sugar, water, corn syrup and salt.
3. 3
   Cook over medium heat until a candy thermometer reads 250 F (hard-ball stage).
4. 4
   Remove from the heat; stir in butter and vinegar until butter is melted.
5. 5
   Immediately pour over popcorn; toss to coat.
6. 6
   When mixture is cool enough to handle, quickly shape into five 3-1/4-in.
7. 7
   balls and five 4-in.
8. 8
   balls, dipping hands in cold water to prevent sticking.
9. 9
   Flatten bottom of popcorn balls slightly for stability.
10. 10
    Place a small ball on top of a large ball, forming the owls head and body.
11. 11
    Immediately decorate owl, using marshmallow creme to attach candies.
12. 12
    Add candy corn for claws.
13. 13
    Press the orange slices into sides for wings.
14. 14
    Flatten and cut additional orange slices to make triangle ears and nose and 3/4-in.
15. 15
    circular eyes.
16. 16
    Press M&Ms into orange circles to complete the eyes.
17. 17
    Add a 3-in.
18. 18
    licorice strip above eyes.