Cannon Balls(Popcorn)
Cannon Balls are sweet, chewy popcorn treats coated in a rich caramel-like mixture, perfect for satisfying cravings and enjoyed by both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pop the corn in shortening, about a dishpan full.
- Combine brown sugar, molasses, and water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Cook until the mixture reaches the hard crack stage, about 20 minutes of stove time and 12 minutes of hard boiling.
- Pour the hot syrup over the popped corn.
- With greased hands, form the coated popcorn into balls.
- Wrap each ball in waxed paper.
- Makes about 16 medium-sized balls.
Tips & Substitutions
For perfectly popped corn, use fresh kernels and avoid overcrowding the pot. If you prefer a lighter flavor, substitute half of the molasses with honey. If you want a crunchier texture, add a pinch of salt to the syrup before pouring it over the popcorn. Experiment with different types of sugar for unique flavors; dark brown sugar adds richness while light brown sugar provides a milder taste.
Serving Suggestions
Cannon balls make a fun snack for parties, movie nights, or as a festive treat during holidays. They pair wonderfully with a warm cup of cocoa or cider. Consider serving them alongside other sweet snacks like Chocolate Pizza(Kids Of All Ages Love This!) for a delightful dessert spread. They also make great gifts when wrapped in decorative cellophane.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cannon balls in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their texture. Avoid refrigeration, as humidity can make them chewy. If they do soften, you can briefly re-crisp them in a low oven (around 200°F) for a few minutes, just until they regain their crunch. Enjoy within a week for optimal freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cannon Balls(Popcorn) contains roughly 112 calories, with 3g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (85% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 24g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different sugars. Brown sugar is traditional for its rich flavor, but you can use white sugar combined with molasses to achieve similar results. Just remember that the type of sugar will slightly alter the taste and texture of the final product.
What should I do if my syrup doesn't reach the hard crack stage?
If your syrup doesn't reach the hard crack stage, it won't firm up properly when cooled. Ensure your stove is set to medium-high heat and use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature closely. If you find it hasn't reached the right stage, continue boiling while stirring frequently until it does.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by substituting the butter or shortening used for popping the corn with a plant-based oil like coconut or canola oil. Additionally, ensure that the brown sugar you use is vegan-friendly, as some sugars may be processed with bone char.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).