Popcorn Balls - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 1/2 qt. popcorn
1 c. sugar
1/2 c. water
1/4 c. light corn syrup
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. vinegar
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

Preparation

Measure popcorn into buttered bowl (4-quart or larger). Combine together in heavy 1 1/2-quart saucepan the sugar, water, corn syrup, salt and vinegar.
Stir over heat until sugar is dissolved; cover.
Bring to boil and let boil briskly for 3 minutes.
Uncover; insert candy thermometer and cook mixture until hard ball stage, 260\u00b0.
Remove from heat; stir in vanilla.
Pour over popcorn.
Stir with large buttered spoon.
Immediately form balls; handle gently to avoid packing.
Use butter on hands if necessary.