Grandma Hornsby's popcorn balls

25 min
easy
7 ingredients

Grandma Hornsby's popcorn balls

Popcorn balls, known in some Latin American countries as "bolitas de maíz dulce" or simply "popcorn balls," are a traditional sweet that has accompanied many generations during celebrations and special moments. Originating in the United States, these treats became popular thanks to families who shared their secret recipes, like Grandma Hornsby's, whose preparation has been passed down orally and in writing in different households.

In Mexico and other countries, although similar variants are prepared with different techniques and flavors, the concept of binding popcorn with a sweet and sticky mixture is common. In Venezuela, for example, they are called "peloticas de maíz," while in Colombia they keep a name closer to their essence, "bolas de maíz dulce." This recipe symbolizes creativity in traditional cooking and combines simple flavors with a crunchy and sweet texture that delights both children and adults alike.

How to make Grandma Hornsby's popcorn balls

Ingredients: Granulated sugar, brown sugar, light corn syrup, water, butter, popcorn, salt.

Put the sugar, brown sugar, syrup, and water in a saucepan—stir until all the sugar is dissolved.

Add the butter—continue cooking but without stirring, until it reaches a temperature of 240°F.

Put the popcorn in a large mixing bowl and add the salt to them.

Pour the caramelized mixture over the popcorn and mix well.

Form small balls and then wrap them in wax paper.

Las bolas de palomitas de maíz de la abuela Hornsby

Ingredients (7)

  • Granulated Sugar
  • Brown Sugar
  • Light Corn Syrup
  • Water
  • Butter
  • Popcorn
  • Salt

Instructions (9 steps)

  1. 1 Put the sugar
  2. 2 brown sugar
  3. 3 syrup
  4. 4 and water in a saucepan—stir until all the sugar dissolves
  5. 5 Add the butter—continue cooking but without stirring
  6. 6 until it reaches a temperature of 240°F
  7. 7 Put the popcorn in a large mixing bowl and add the salt to it
  8. 8 Pour the caramelized mixture over the popcorn and mix well
  9. 9 Form small balls and then wrap them in wax paper