a popcorn ball with a construction paper sheep face on it to make a sheep popcorn ball

Spring celebrations pair best with treats that balance whimsy with simplicity, and sheep popcorn balls do exactly that. This popcorn balls recipe blends a classic homemade popcorn ball with an easy paper craft to transform a simple snack into an Easter treat that stands out on classroom treat tables, party trays, and springtime displays. Soft white popcorn forms the fluffy “wool,” while a paper sheep face brings personality and visual appeal.

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As a spring treat for kids, sheep popcorn balls offer more than just sugar. The activity combines cooking, fine motor work, and creative assembly. The result is a hands-on spring snack idea that suits Easter classroom party treat planning, homeschool snack time, church events, and spring-themed celebrations.

This post walks through how to make traditional popcorn balls from scratch and then turn them into cheerful sheep using basic craft supplies.

Why Sheep Popcorn Balls Work as an Easter Snack for Kids

Popcorn balls have been part of American kitchens for generations. Their light texture, simple ingredients, and adaptable shape make them ideal for seasonal treats. Adding a sheep theme fits naturally with spring imagery and Easter traditions, while remaining neutral enough for a wide range of settings.

As an Easter classroom party treat, this sheep popcorn balls recipe offers clear advantages:

Individually portioned and easy to distribute
No baking required
Visually themed without relying on candy overload
Suitable for make-ahead prep

Each popcorn ball is practical for teachers and parents who need treats that travel well and stay intact.

Ingredients for Homemade Popcorn Balls

ingredients to make the sheep popcorn balls recipe

This popcorn balls recipe makes a classic version of the treat with a light vanilla finish. The recipe yields enough mixture for multiple popcorn balls, depending on size.

7 cups popcorn kernels
1 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup water
1/3 cup light corn syrup
1 teaspoon salt (If salted popcorn is used, omit the salt)
1/2 stick unsalted butter
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions: How to Make Popcorn Balls

1. Pop the popcorn kernels.
Pop 7 cups of popcorn using an air popper or stovetop method. Remove any unpopped kernels and place the popped corn in a very large heat-safe bowl.

sugar, water, corn syrup, salt, and butter in a pan

2. Prepare the sugar mixture.
In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, water, light corn syrup, butter, and salt if using. Place the saucepan over medium heat.

3. Cook the mixture.
Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the butter melts completely. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Allow it to boil for approximately 2–3 minutes without stirring, ensuring the syrup thickens slightly.

adding vanilla to the sugar, water, corn syrup, salt, and butter mixture

4. Add vanilla extract.
Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully stir in the vanilla extract. The mixture will release steam.

a pan dumping the sugar, water, corn syrup mixture over the popcorn

5. Coat the popcorn.
Slowly pour the hot syrup over the popped popcorn while gently stirring with a heat-resistant spoon. Continue mixing until the popcorn is evenly coated.

6. Shape the popcorn balls.
Allow the popcorn to cool slightly until safe to handle. Lightly butter hands or wear food-safe gloves. Scoop portions of popcorn and press gently into round balls.

7. Cool completely.
Place the popcorn balls on parchment paper and allow them to cool fully. Once cooled, they are ready for packaging or decorating.

Supplies for Sheep Popcorn Balls Craft

popcorn balls in bags, black marker, black construction paper, and scissors

After the Easter treats have cooled, make the sheep using these simple craft supplies:

Popcorn balls placed in clear treat bags
Black construction paper
White construction paper
Black marker
Glue

Books To Read While Snacking

My favorite book to pair with these sheep popcorn balls is Sheep in a Jeep by Nancy E. Shaw. It’s a fun story that uses rhyming as a way to keep kids entertained and to develop language skills. If you’d rather pair this spring snack idea with an Easter book, check out some of my favorites:

Happy Easter, Biscuit!: A Lift-the-Flap Book: An Easter And Springtime Book For Kids

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