Caramel popcorn balls Recipe

1/4 C. butter or margarine
1 C. brn sugar
1/2 C. light (white) corn syrup
2/3 C. Eagle brand sweetened cond. milk
1/2 tsp. vanilla
5 qts. popped corn (can use micro-wave)
1/2 C. salted peanuts (optional)

In saucepan combine butter, sugar and corn syrup. Stir well and bring to a boil over med. heat. Stir in cond. milk;simmer, stirring constantly, til mixture comes to soft ball stage (234 to 238*) Stir in vanilla. Pour over popped corn and stir to coat. Butter hands lightly; shape into balls about 3 1/2" in diameter. Makes about 15.