INGREDIENTS:

1 cup sugar

1/3 cup white corn syrup

1/3 cup water

1/4 cup butter

1/2 teaspoon vinegar

1 teaspoon vanilla

3 quarts popped popcorn (2 large microwave bags) 



TO PREPARE:

    
Combine sugar, syrup, water, butter, salt and vinegar.  Cook, stirring until sugar is dissolved. 

Continue cooking, without stirring until syrup reaches 270 on a candy thermometer or forms a firm ball when a little bit is dropped in a cup of cold water.  Add vanilla. 

Pour syrup over popped popcorn, stirring until all kernels are covered.  Rub butter on hands and shape into balls, about the size of a tennis ball. 

Make in small batches and do not double this recipe.  May add color for holidays.