Do you love the delicious popcorn you get at the movie theatre? Do you wish you could recreate that perfectly crispy popcorn at home? Let me explain how to choose a popcorn machine and show you the best popcorn makers of 2021.
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Why You Should Trust My Opinion On The Best Popcorn Makers
- Cookbook Author: I've written 5 Instant Pot Cookbooks and 2 Air Fryer Cookbooks so I've spent more than my fair share of time in the kitchen.
- Efficient: That's the only way I know how to do things in the kitchen. Who has time to waste when you're trying to get food on the table? I'm known for my ruthless efficiency and use the pot in pot cooking method every chance I get.
- Gadget geek!: I'm a self-proclaimed food tech enthusiast and have been known to purchase (and review) just about any kitchen appliance I can get my hands on.
What Should You Look For In A Popcorn Machine?
One of the most important things to take into consideration when you're choosing a popcorn maker is how thoroughly it pops your popcorn. No one wants a pan full of kernels or to waste a ton of popcorn because it didn't pop.
Another thing you need to consider when you're shopping for the perfect popcorn machine is how easy it is to use. Some of the popcorn poppers on the market can be tricky to use and require several steps to pop your kernels. Make sure you do your research how they work before you commit to buying.
What Are The Different Types Of Popcorn Machines?
There are three different types of popcorn machines you can choose from. Depending on how much effort you want to put into popping the perfect bowl of popcorn, you can choose from the following types of popcorn makers:
- Microwave
- Stovetop
- Electric
How To Choose The Best Popcorn For Popping
If you're new to popping your own popcorn at home you may be led to believe that all popcorn is created equal. I'll be the first person to tell you that is simply not the case.
There is a multitude of different types of popcorn kernels to choose from on the market. Some have different seasonings, some have added oils, some are organic, and some are more affordable than others.
I've tried a variety of different types of popcorn kernels and I have a few favorites. They are:
- Great Northern Popcorn Kernels
- Bob's Red Mill Whole White Popcorn Kernels
- Orville Redenbacher's Gourmet Popcorn Kernels
- Benchmark Popcorn Kernels
What Is The Best Recipe For A Popcorn Machine?
While there are at least a million different ways to make popcorn (I know because I've tried at least half of them), over the years I have come up with the perfect recipe.
Here's my favorite popcorn recipe:
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1/2 teaspoon flavacol
- 1/4 cup of popcorn kernels
Best Popcorn Makers Of 2021
Popcorn Makers
If you love the speed and convenience of microwaved popcorn but want to skip the extra chemicals and processed ingredients that come in prepackaged options, the Nordic Ware Microwave Popcorn Popper is the solution you've been waiting for.
In as little as three minutes, you can have perfect air popped popcorn with the help of this Cuisinart EasyPop Hot Air Popcorn Maker. It is easy to use, easy to clean, and easily tucks away in a cabinet when not in use.
Unlike some of the other popcorn makers on this list, this Whirly-Pop Popcorn Popper isn't made out of plastic. If you're a sucker for nostalgia and love picking pieces that are aesthetically pleasing for your kitchen, this is the one for you. If you're not a fan of another full-sized appliance for your kitchen or just want a stovetop option you'll love this popcorn popper.
This is my absolute favorite popcorn machine I've ever used. It consistently produces perfectly popped kernels and is a breeze to use. Plus it's a breeze to clean after each use.
Do you have a home movie theatre that needs that finishing touch? Love to entertain and want the perfect thing to wow your guests? The Great Northern Antique Style Popcorn Machine will do just that. Make popcorn good enough to rival your favorite movie theatre right at home.
The Ecolution Pop Popcorn Popper is the most affordable popcorn popper on my list. Not only is it inexpensive, but it's also incredibly easy to use. The small size makes the perfect portion for 1-2 people. Snuggle up for the perfect date night movie with a perfect bowl of popcorn.
If you have limited kitchen and storage space, you'll love the Popco Silicone Microwave Popcorn Popper. Pop up to 15 cups of popcorn at one time and then be amazed at how it collapses to less than 3 inches tall for storing. It comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee that allows you to feel comfortable with making the jump to purchase one of your own.
The Preso Orvillle Redenbacher stirring popper is has a see-through top so you can watch your popcorn while it pops. It has spinning arms to prevent kernels from burning. It cooks well with butter and oil for the perfect buttery bowl.
The functionality of this Great Northern Popcorn Spinner Stovetop Popcorn Popper is my favorite stovetop option. It pops up to 5 quarts of popcorn at a time and has a manual spinner function that allows you to turn the popcorn while it is cooking to avoid any burnt kernels. When your popcorn is finished, just wipe down the inside with a paper towel and store it away with your pots and pans until the next time your popcorn craving strikes.
Pop up to 18 cups of popcorn in less than 2 1/2 minutes with the Presto Orville Redenbacher Hot Air Popper. You'll love how easy this is to clean. Simply take a wet rag and wipe down the inside of the cover and the outside of the base after every use and you're ready to pop your next bowl.
Can I Use My Instant Pot To Pop Popcorn?
While you technically CAN use your Instant Pot to pop popcorn with a glass lid, I have found it gives very inconsistent results. The inside of the pot doesn't heat up quite enough or evenly enough to completely pop the kernels. This leaves you with a pan full of unpopped kernels. This can be terribly frustrating when you're expecting to sit down with a bowl of popcorn for movie night.
Want More Helpful Buying Guides?
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- The Best Baking Pans of 2020
- How To Choose A Slow Cooker
- How To Choose An Air Fryer
- Food Processor Vs. Blender - Which Should You Choose?
- How To Choose A Food Processor
- Kitchen Gadgets For Foodies
- How To Choose A Waffle Iron
- The Best Spatulas For Every Job
- Which Mandoline Slicer Should You Choose
- The Best Dash Kitchen Appliances
If you found this article on how to choose a popcorn machine and the best popcorn makers of 2021 helpful, make sure you share it on Facebook and Pinterest so they can choose the right one too.
Originally Published October 30, 2020
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