My mother had a marvelous knack for making something out of almost nothing. Every holiday, birthday, or special occasion was commemorated with something special, regardless of her meager resources. Here’s a super easy Valentine’s Day treat from her recipe collection. It’s super quick and easy to make, economical and gluten free! Package it up in cello bags with a bit of ribbon and stickers, and you’ve got the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for a whole classroom of youngsters, or just that special someone on your list.
Pink Candy Popcorn:
4 quarts hot-air popped popcorn (about 1/2 cup before popping)
1 cup sugar
1/3 cup milk
1/8 tsp salt
1/2 TBS corn syrup
1/2 tsp vanilla
pink paste food coloring (less than 1/16 tsp)
OR liquid red food coloring, add to desired color
butter for greasing bowl
Pop the popcorn in a hot air popper. Pour into a very large bowl, greased with butter. Combine sugar, milk, corn syrup and salt in a heavy saucepan. Cook over medium high heat, stirring constantly, until mixture boils. Boil until the syrup reaches soft ball stage or 230 degrees (about 5-7 minutes). To test, pour a drop of syrup into very cold water. The drop should form into a soft ball that can be pressed between your fingers. Remove from heat, add vanilla and food coloring and stir to combine. Pour evenly over popcorn and stir until all popcorn is thoroughly coated with candy. Be careful! Syrup is very hot! Cool completely before bagging.
Cook’s Note: This recipe may be doubled without any modifications.
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