Grandpa's Crunchy Popcorn Balls

Combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, unsalted butter, and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly as the mixture begins to boil and reaches its hard-crack stage, which is equivalent to 300 degrees F (or the temperature at which caramelized sugar turns a deep amber color). \nOnce you've achieved this stage, remove the saucepan from the heat source and quickly add either a few drops of pure vanilla extract or white vinegar; mix thoroughly to combine.

Next, slowly pour the hot sugar mixture over a large batch of freshly popped popcorn kernels while stirring constantly with a spoon or spatula. \nAllow the mixture to cool and set for 5 minutes, then use your hands or a small cookie scoop to shape the mixture into 3-inch round balls.