Marshmallow Popcorn Balls..Gift from the Kitchen

Years ago popcorn balls were part of the Christmas candy assortment that was offered after the big Christmas dinner at my in-laws home. My mother in law made them with a boiled syrup mixture instead of marshmallows. It was a sweet treat for the children and adults alike.
I haven't made popcorn balls in a very long time and so decided to do so again this year. I rolled some in sprinkles, some with candies, and the rest I left plain. Feel free to add and decorate as you wish. Can you imagine the excitement in a little child's face when you hold out a basket of popcorn balls and say 'you can pick one'?

• 12 cups popped corn (1/2 cup corn kernels) 
• 1/4 cup butter
• 4 cups mini marshmallows
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Sprinkles or candies

1. Melt butter in a medium size saucepan over medium heat until melted.
2. Add marshmallows. Cook until marshmallows are completely melted, stirring constantly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and salt. 
4. Place popcorn in a large bowl and add marshmallow mixture, mix until well coated.
5. Moisten hands frequently with water as you shape mixture into balls. Roll them in sprinkles or press candies into balls.
6. Place on parchment or waxed paper and allow to set firm. They will firm up more quickly if you refrigerate them.
7. Wrap in cellophane or small plastic bags and your little treats are ready to hand out.
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