Candy Cane Popcorn Balls

• 4 quarts popped popcorn
• 2 teaspoons water
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup butter
• 2 cups sugar
• 24 miniature candy canes

1. Place popcorn in a large greased bowl or roasting pan; set aside. In a small bowl, combine the water, baking soda and vanilla; set aside.
2. In a heavy saucepan, combine corn syrup and butter; heat over medium heat until butter is melted. Add sugar; cook and stir until sugar is dissolved and mixture comes to a boil. Cook and stir until a candy thermometer reaches 230u0b0 (thread stage), about 2 minutes.
3. Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla mixture (mixture will foam) until blended. Immediately pour over popcorn, stirring to coat evenly. Cool for about 5 minutes, stirring several times.
4. When cool enough to handle, firmly shape with buttered hands into 2-in. balls. Insert straight end of candy cane in the center of each ball.

popcorn, water, baking soda, vanilla, light corn syrup, butter, sugar, canes

Taken from www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/candy-cane-popcorn-balls/ (may not work)