Puffed Wheat Balls
Sweet, crunchy puffed wheat balls are a nostalgic treat with caramel-like flavor, perfect for snacking or sharing at gatherings, appealing to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place cereal in a large bowl; set aside.
- In a heavy saucepan, bring brown sugar and corn syrup to a boil.
- Add butter or margarine to the saucepan and stir until melted.
- Stir in evaporated milk and sugar, then cook until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage (about 235°F or 113°C).
- Remove from heat and pour over the cereal, mixing well to coat.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto waxed paper to cool and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure you bring the brown sugar and corn syrup to a full boil before adding the butter. If you want a nutty flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or seeds. You can also use honey or maple syrup instead of corn syrup for a different sweetness. Make sure to keep the mixture at soft ball stage for proper texture, which is essential for the puffed wheat to hold together.
Serving Suggestions
Puffed wheat balls make a delightful snack or treat for parties and gatherings. They pair beautifully with a glass of milk or a warm cup of tea. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside Icebox Ginger Muffins for a sweet and crunchy contrast. These treats are also great for lunchboxes or as a quick energy boost during the day.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover puffed wheat balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you notice them getting sticky, you can separate them by gently tossing them with a small amount of powdered sugar. Reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds if you want them slightly warm, but they're best enjoyed at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Puffed Wheat Balls contains roughly 1490 calories, with 15g protein, 317g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (212% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (82% of the Daily Value), and iron (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 23g 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 cereal instead of puffed wheat?
Yes, you can substitute puffed wheat with other cereals like puffed rice or corn puffs. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly. Adjust the cooking time as needed, ensuring the mixture coats the cereal well and sets properly.
How can I make these puffed wheat balls more nutritious?
To boost the nutritional value, consider adding ingredients like ground flaxseed, chia seeds, or dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries. These additions will enhance the flavor while increasing fiber and vitamins, making the treat a bit healthier without compromising on taste.
Can I make these puffed wheat balls vegan?
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, simply replace the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil. Use a vegan-friendly corn syrup, and check that your evaporated milk is a plant-based alternative, like coconut or almond milk, to keep the recipe completely dairy-free.
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).