Vermont Maple Popcorn Balls

1/2 cup popcorn, popped
1 cup pecans or walnuts
1 cup maple syrup
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Combine popped corn and pecans or walnuts in a large bowl.

Put the maple syrup and butter into a heavy saucepan. Cook to 260 degrees F on a candy thermometer. Remove from heat and add the vanilla extract. Stir well and pour over the popped corn and nuts. Shape into balls.