Caramel Apple Popcorn Balls

SERVES: 8

CHILL TIME: 5 Min

COOK TIME: 3 Min

Crunchy, sticky, sweet...this recipe for Caramel Apple Popcorn Balls has got it all! It's sure to please everyone at your Halloween party, from the gourmands to the sugar-happy kids!

What You'll Need

1 (3.5-ounce) bag plain or butter-flavored microwave popcorn
2 cups apple-cinnamon-flavored cereal rings
1/2 cup chopped dried apples
1 (14-ounce) package caramels, about 48, unwrapped
2 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
8 non-toxic wooden craft sticks

What to Do

Pop popcorn according to package directions. Carefully open bag and pour 6 cups popcorn into a large bowl; discard unpopped kernels. Enjoy remaining popcorn separately. Add cereal and dried apples to bowl with popcorn.
In a large microwave-safe bowl, microwave the caramels, water and butter, uncovered, on HIGH (100% power) for 2-1/2 to 3 minutes, or until melted and smooth, stirring every minute. Mix in the cinnamon then pour over the popcorn mixture; stir until evenly coated. Let cool for 5 minutes.
With lightly buttered hands, shape mixture into balls around each craft stick. Place on lightly buttered wax paper to set and cool.