My mother made these for me when I was a little girl. I still love them.
1 (3.3-ounce) bag microwave popcorn, popped
⅓ cup molasses
¾ cup sugar
¼ cup water
¼ teaspoon vinegar
¼ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons butter
Place the popped corn in a large bowl. In a small saucepan combine the molasses, sugar, water, vinegar, and salt. Cook on low heat without stirring until the thermometer registers 270 degrees.
Remove from the heat and add the butter, stirring only to mix. Pour over the popped corn, stirring constantly. When cool enough to handle, shape into tennis ball–size balls and place on waxed paper. Serve in a wooden bowl.
Makes 10 servings.