Popcorn Balls

This is one of my husbands favorite treats:
2 c. white sugar
1 c. light corn syrup
1/2 butter
1/4 c. water
salt to taste
1 t. pure vanilla extract
1 t. distilled white vinegar (optional; I only use when I remember to)
5 quarts of popped popcorn

Keep the popped popcorn hot in a 325* to 350* oven.

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, corn syrup, butter, and water. Stir and heat to hard crack stage.* Remove from heat, add vanilla and vinegar (if using), and mix well.

Pour slowly over popped popcorn while stirring. Wait 5 minutes and shape into 10 three inch balls.

*Hard crack stage is around 300* F on a candy thermometer. If you do not have a candy thermometer, drop a spoonful of syrup into cold water. I it seperates into hardened threads, it is ready.