Popcorn Owls

Directions

1. 1
   Place popcorn in a large oven-proof bowl; keep warm in oven at 200° In a heavy saucepan, combine the sugar, water, corn syrup and salt. Cook over medium heat until a candy thermometer reads 250° (hard-ball stage).
2. 2
   Remove from the heat; stir in butter and vinegar until butter is melted. Immediately pour over popcorn; toss to coat.
3. 3
   When mixture is cool enough to handle, quickly shape into five 3-1/4-in. balls and five 4-in. balls, dipping hands in cold water to prevent sticking. Flatten bottom of popcorn balls slightly to allow them to sit flat.
4. 4
   Place a small ball on top of a large ball, forming the owl's head and body.
5. 5
   Immediately decorate owl, using marshmallow creme to attach candies.
6. 6
   Add candy corn for claws. Press the orange slices into sides for wings. Flatten and cut additional orange slices to make triangle ears and nose and 3/4-in. circular eyes. Press M&M's into orange circles to complete the eyes.
7. 7
   Add a 3-in. licorice strip above the eyes.