Homemade Rainbow Bouncy Balls
Ingredients:
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
1/4 cup (60ml) water
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple – gel food coloring is recommended for vibrant colors)
Optional: Sprinkles or edible glitter
Instructions:
1. Prepare your workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease the parchment paper with cooking spray or butter. This will prevent the bouncy balls from sticking. Have a bowl of ice water ready nearby.
2. Combine ingredients in a saucepan: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, corn syrup, water, cream of tartar, and salt. Stir gently until the sugar is completely dissolved.
3. Cook the mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. Clip a candy thermometer to the side of the pan and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C) – this is the hard-crack stage. This stage is crucial for the bouncy texture. Do not overheat, as this can make the balls brittle.
4. Remove from heat and add flavoring: Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully stir in the vanilla extract. Be cautious as the mixture will be very hot.
5. Divide and color the mixture: Divide the hot mixture evenly into six separate bowls. Add a different food coloring to each bowl, stirring until the color is evenly distributed. If using gel food coloring, a small amount will go a long way. Start with a few drops and add more until you achieve the desired color intensity.
6. Prepare the bouncy balls: Lightly grease your hands with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. Using a teaspoon or a small spoon, scoop a small amount of colored mixture and roll it between your greased palms to form a small ball.
7. Cool the balls: Immediately drop the formed ball into the bowl of ice water. Let it sit for a few seconds until it cools and hardens. Remove the bouncy ball from the ice water and place it on the prepared parchment paper. Repeat this process with the remaining colored mixture, creating a variety of rainbow-colored bouncy balls.
8. Add optional decorations (optional): While the balls are still slightly pliable, you can add sprinkles or edible glitter for extra decoration. Gently press the sprinkles or glitter onto the surface of the ball.
9. Let the balls fully set: Allow the bouncy balls to cool and fully harden completely on the parchment paper before handling or storing them. This usually takes about 30 minutes.
10. Enjoy your homemade rainbow bouncy balls!: Once cooled and hardened, your bouncy balls are ready to be enjoyed! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last for several weeks if kept properly.