Popcorn as holiday decoration and treats

In the late 1800s, popcorn was a fascinating treat (not a lot of streaming options back then), thus it became increasingly popular around holidays like Christmas. Victorian revelers would use popcorn to spruce up their mantelpieces, doorways and evergreens; ornaments were created using popcorn balls, a popular sweet that was cheap to make. Today, popcorn is still used for decoration and gift giving.

Here are some tips and a recipe from the Popcorn Board:

How to string popcorn:

Make a large amount of popcorn the day before and allow it to sit out overnight. Fresh popcorn breaks easily; day-old popcorn is tougher. Make a fresh batch to eat while you make your popcorn garland using the stale popcorn.

Thread a needle with strong thread, waxed cotton thread, or even dental floss. Select the length you want or keep the thread on the spool and cut once you've reached the desired length after stringing.

Start stringing one popcorn kernel at a time by inserting the tip of the needle into the center of each piece. Alternate with cranberries if desired.

When finished, cut the string, remove the needle, and tie large knots at both ends.

Carefully hang the garland on your tree, mantel, or even your outside shrubs for animals to enjoy.

Coconut Popcorn Snowballs

Popcorn plays with peppermint and coconut for some wintertime fun and flavor!

Yield: 8 (4-inch) balls

Ingredients

2 cups shredded or flaked sweetened coconut

3 quarts popped popcorn

4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter or margarine

3 cups miniature marshmallows

1 teaspoon coconut or vanilla extract

8 candy canes or candy cane sticks, about 3-4 inches

Directions

Place a large sheet of wax (or parchment) paper over a work surface. Spread coconut onto paper.

Spray a large mixing bowl lightly with cooking spray and place popcorn inside.

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in marshmallows and stir until marshmallows are melted and mixture is smooth. Pour over popcorn and mix well until coated.

Spray hands with cooking spray and press the popcorn firmly to form into balls. Place balls on coconut and roll and press coconut to coat. While holding popcorn ball, gently press a candy cane into each ball.

Serve immediately or wrap individually in plastic wrap for storage.

Nutrition Facts

350 calories

17 g total fat

12 g saturated fat

15 mg cholesterol

130 mg sodium

48 g carbohydrates

2 g fiber

30 g sugar

2 g protein

110 mg potassium