Popcorn Balls Recipe - Christmas fun for all to enjoy.

3 quarts popped popcorn
1~1/2 cups salted mixed nuts ~ coarsely chopped 
3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1/3 cup light corn syrup
1/3 cup margarine or butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla
3 different colors of food coloring - 6 or 7 drops each

Spray a large roasting pan with cooking spray; add popcorn and mixed peanuts removing any un-popped corn kernels, place roasting pan into a 250º oven to keep warm. Set out 3 large mixing bowl for each color of popcorn ball and spray empty bowl with cooking spray.

In a 2 ~ quart saucepan combine brown sugar, corn syrup, margarine and salt. Stirring constantly, bring to a boil over medium heat. Without stirring, boil 3 minutes or until the mixture reaches 270° on a candy thermometer.

Remove HOT syrup from heat; with a long handled spoon carefully stir in baking soda, vanilla. Pour 1/3 of the HOT syrup into the 3 bowls, stir in the food coloring. Remove warm popcorn from the oven and dump 1/3 into each bowl; stir with a big spoon or fork until popcorn is evenly coated. When warm enough to handle {not cold or the balls won't stick together}, rub a small amount of margarine or butter on your hands to keep the balls from sticking to your hands. Form into 2 to 3 inch popcorn balls.

Set popcorn balls on waxed paper until cold, wrap individually in clear plastic wrap or small zip lock bags.