Country Cousins Popcorn Balls

Cooking Instructions:

Combine sugar, apple juice, syrup, butter, and salt in a heavy saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Remove sugar from sides of pan with a wet brush. Cook, without stirring, until mixture reaches 270 degrees Fahrenheit (soft crack stage on a candy thermometer). Add vanilla. Pour mixture over popped popcorn, peanuts, and dates. Mix well. Wet or butter hands and shape into 3-inch balls.