Homemade Popcorn Balls

1. Line the bottom of a medium pot with vegetable oil, around 3-4 tablespoons, depending on the size of your pot. A heavy-bottomed pot is preferred, but any will work. Heat the oil on medium high heat.
2. Once the oil starts to pop, add a single-layer of popcorn to the bottom of the pan and cover with the lid. Gently shake by moving the pot slowly back and forth over the burner to cook kernels evenly. As the kernels begin to pop it may become necessary to place your hand lightly on the lid of the pot to hold it in place.
3. When the popping slows to around 3-5 second intervals, remove from heat, remove lid and transfer to a large bowl.
5. Bring sugar, corn syrup and salt to a boil in a small saucepan, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Cook over high heat until mixture reaches 255 degrees F on a candy thermometer. Stir in vanilla.
6. Pour mixture over popcorn evenly, and continue tossing with buttered hands (or gloves, it’s hot) until thoroughly coated.
7. Add candy, nuts, or dried fruit and distribute them evenly in the popcorn.
8. Press into 3 or 4-inch balls and transfer onto waxed paper or a non-stick surface to cool.