And thanks to popcorn makers, you can easily make theater-worthy batches of buttery kernels at home. So, before you make a purchase, take a look at these questions and contemplate how you’d answer them. To make a batch, all you have to do is turn the "pop" switch on and let it preheat for a few minutes. Electric: Electric versions have become very popular, quickly producing popcorn with the push of a button. Your choice of machine will determine the type of popcorn you can make, and you need to weigh up the benefits of tasty oil-based popcorn makers versus the healthier air-popped variety.

At some indeterminate point, dad retired that oil-stained device, replaced by the ease and efficiency of microwave popcorn.

Studies have shown that BPA (Bisphenol A) is a hormone disrupter when it is consumed, which makes us lean toward brands that claim their popcorn maker is BPA-free and melamine-free plastic, silicone, stainless steel or aluminum. They’re affordable, easy to use, and won’t send popcorn flying across the kitchen as some air poppers do. Eva has more than 10 years of experience in the food industry, working as a food stylist, personal chef and marketing manager.

I had the same results when I tried making smaller batches, following the recommendation to cook 2 tablespoons of kernels for 3 minutes.Equipped with a stirring rod to avoid sticking and burning, this maker produces 6 quarts (24 cups) of perfectly crisp popcorn in less than four minutes. There are popcorn makers that can produce 24 cups in one batch as well as models designed for solo snacking.