A whimsical treat that combines fluffy popcorn with a sweet, gooey candy coating that glows in the dark, perfect for movie nights and celebrations.
Prep Time20 minutesmins
Cook Time10 minutesmins
Total Time30 minutesmins
Course: Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy, Fun
Servings: 8servings
Calories: 180kcal
Equipment
Saucepan
Mixing Bowl
Spatula
Baking Sheet
Candy Thermometer
Ingredients
Popcorn
8cupspopped popcorn
Candy Mixture
1cupgranulated sugar
1/2cuplight corn syrup
1/4cupwater
1teaspoonvanilla extract
1/2teaspoonbaking soda
1teaspoontonic water(for glow effect)
1/2teaspoonsalt
2tablespoonsunsalted butter
to tasteedible glow-in-the-dark sprinkles(optional)
Instructions
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
Add the popped popcorn to a large bowl, discarding any unpopped kernels.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, water, and salt. Stir until sugar fully dissolves.
Allow the mixture to boil until it reaches 250°F (hard-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
Remove from heat and quickly whisk in vanilla extract, tonic water, baking soda, and neon food coloring. The mixture will foam, so be cautious!
Immediately pour the candy coating over the popcorn and use a spatula to mix until evenly coated.
Butter your hands and shape the coated popcorn into balls while it's still warm.
Place popcorn balls onto the prepared baking sheet and, if desired, sprinkle with glow-in-the-dark edible sprinkles.
Let them cool completely before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
For best results, use neon food coloring and tonic water to create a glowing effect under blacklight. Store in an airtight container for up to one week.