Description
Imagine hosting a party where the snacks aren’t just delicious—they’re downright magical. Glow-in-the-Dark Candy Popcorn Bombs bring that wow factor, transforming ordinary popcorn into luminous, sweet spheres that captivate guests of all ages. Whether you’re planning a spooky Halloween bash, a neon-themed birthday party, or just want to add an extra sparkle to a cozy movie night, these glowing treats promise to light up your celebration in every sense.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 cups popped popcorn
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ¼ cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- Neon food coloring (green, blue, pink, or purple)
- 1 teaspoon tonic water (key for the glow effect)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Edible glow-in-the-dark sprinkles (optional, for extra sparkle)
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Place the popped popcorn in a large mixing bowl.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Stir until sugar dissolves.
- Allow the mixture to reach 250°F (hard-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat and quickly stir in vanilla extract, tonic water, baking soda, and neon food coloring. The mixture will foam slightly.
- Immediately pour the hot syrup over the popcorn and use a spatula to mix until evenly coated.
- Once cooled slightly, butter your hands and shape the coated popcorn into balls.
- Place the popcorn balls onto the lined baking sheet and sprinkle with glow-in-the-dark edible sprinkles if using.
- Let the popcorn balls cool completely before serving.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer for precise temperature control.
- Butter your hands generously to easily shape the popcorn into balls.
- Neon green and blue typically glow the brightest under UV light.
- Tonic water is essential for the glow effect; regular water won’t work.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes