Pumpkin Popcorn Balls

Fall is here!!!  Unfortunately the fall weather is not here yet in California!

But I’m ready for some pumpkin treats and this one can be done without firing up the oven or stove.

You can whip up these pumpkin popcorn balls in the microwave!

They are shaped like pumpkins, but not flavored like pumpkins.  They are actually flavored by orange jello.  Jello popcorn is tried and true around here.  (my sister did a post on it here)

It’s so easy and surprisingly tasty!

Here’s the recipe:

In microwavable bowl, melt 1/2 c butter,

Stir in a 3oz. box of jello (orange in this case). and 1/4 cup corn syrup.

Microwave again until it reaches a full boil (try 1 min. then more if needed). Stir.

Mix in 1/4 tsp. baking soda. Stir for 2-3 minutes.

Mix in 12 cups popcorn. I never actually measure, I just add until its all covered evenly.

Microwave the whole thing for 30 seconds more.

-You can do more if you prefer it crispy instead of gooey.

Then have the kids form them into balls.

We use plastic bags with a little non-stick spray on them as gloves for the kids.

I use tootsie roll minis for the stem.  For a green leaf, you can shape starbursts, green apple tootsie rolls, or laffy taffys into a leaf shape.  In the picture above (top of post) I cut leaves out of green air heads. This is a “use whatever you can find” situation.  Be sure to press the stem in while the popcorn ball is still warm and pliable.

These pictures were taken three years ago and I’ve done it with my kids every year since!

It is for sure a fall treat tradition.  I have some friends who have made them for school class parties too!

Thanks for having me again Stephanie!  I hope you and your readers get a chance to try out these pumpkin popcorn balls this fall!

For more fall treat ideas, visit my sister and I on our blog, bee in our bonnet!