My Pop's Popcorn Balls

Everyone knows that I am picky when it comes to popcorn balls. I like the old fashioned kind not those gross, sticky kind that most people make. This is by far the best recipe for popcorn balls ever....Just ask my Pop.

2 1/2 quarts popped corn
1 Cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 Cup water
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon vinegar
1/4 Cup light corn syrup

Combine in a heavy saucepan; sugar, water, corn syrup, salt and vinegar.
Stir over heat til sugar is dissolved. Cover; bring to a boil and let boil briskly for 3 minutes. Uncover, insert candy thermometer and cook mixture to hard ball stage (260 degrees.) Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla. Pour slowly over popped corn, stirring to coat each kernel. Immediately form into balls; handle gently to avoid packing balls. Use buttered hands if necessary.

Makes 12- 2 1/2" diameter balls.