Molasses Popcorn Balls

You'll want these at Hallowe'en...Thanksgiving...Christmas!

3 quarts popped popcorn
1 1/2 cups Brer Rabbit Molasses
1/4 cup water
1/2 cup sugar
2 teaspoons cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
5 tablespoons vegetable shortening

Pick over popcorn, discarding all hard kernels. Combine molasses, sugar, water, vinegar and salt; cook slowly, stirring constantly, to 270º F. (or when a small quantity dropped into cold water forms hard ball). Remove from heat, add vanilla extract and shortening, stirring only enough to mix. Pour over popped corn, stirring constantly. Grease hands; shape lightly and quickly into balls. Cool. Wrap in waxed paper. Makes 28-30