Old Timey Popcorn Balls with Molasses

Ingredients

• 2 quarts popped popcorn
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/3 cup water
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 tablespoon butter or margarine
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

Directions

1. Place popcorn in a large bowl and set aside. In a heavy saucepan, combine molasses, sugar, water, vinegar and butter. Cook, without stirring, over medium heat until the mixture reaches 235 degrees F on a candy thermometer (soft-ball stage). Add baking soda and stir well. Remove from heat and immediately pour over popcorn, stirring gently with a wooden spoon until well coated. When cool enough to handle, quickly shape into 3-in. balls, dipping hands in cool water to prevent the syrup from sticking.