If you are thinking about getting a popcorn maker to make fluffy, hot popped kernels for your family movie nights, we’re here to help.
In this guide we review the 3 best popcorn makers on the market in Australia, and also include a handy FAQ section to help you get the best product for your needs in your shopping basket.
1. Sunbeam Popcorn Maker (Top Pick)
Likely the most popular popcorn on the market globally, the Sunbeam Popcorn Maker is a retro design machine capable of making 12 cups of popped corn in just a few minutes.
Non-slip feet ensure it stays in place whilst it is making your snacks, while it’s lightweight, plastic construction means it is easy to transport and store.
Health conscious consumers will love the fact that there is no need to use any oil as the machine simply uses hot air to pop the kernels.
Although, you can add butter to a special tray which melts whilst the popcorn is being made, should you want something a little more indulgent.
What We Like:
- Quick and easy
- Consistent popcorn
- Butter melting tray
- No need to use oil
What We Don’t Like:
- Doesn’t come with cups or serving bowl
2. Wabash Valley Farms Whirley Stovetop Popcorn Maker
If you prefer a traditional stovetop popcorn maker, then the Wabash has you covered. Made from high-quality aluminum, with a polished wooden handle, it looks phenomenal in a modern kitchen, even when it isn’t being used.
When you do feel ready to make some popcorn with the Whirley popper you just turn your stovetop on, pour in your unpopped kernels, close the lid and use the turning mechanism for 3 minutes until your perfectly fluffy, hot popcorn is ready.
Homeowners who love an easy clean will appreciate the quick release lid and ability to conveniently wipe-down and store the Whirley.
What We Like:
- No need for electric or batteries
- Attractive design
- Easy-clean e
- Suitable for camping
What We Don’t Like:
- Thin metal used for gears may not be durable
- May still require shaking in addition to using gears
3. Lekue Microwave Popcorn Popper/ Popcorn Maker
Looking for a compact, convenient popcorn maker? Look no further than the Lekue. The bowl is entirely collapsible, so it takes up minimal space in the kitchen. When you’re ready to make delicious popcorn, simply pop out the bowl and fill it to the line with kernels, then add the special suction lid. In just 90 seconds you’ll have tasty popcorn to enjoy with the whole family.
Looking for convenient cleaning of your kitchen gadgets? The Lekue microwave popper is dishwasher safe, so once you’ve enjoyed your tasty snack you can simply pop it on the rack with your other dishes without any fiddly cleaning needed.
What We Like:
- Collapsible
- Simple and easy to use
- Suction lid prevents loose popcorn escaping
- Dishwasher safe
What We Don’t Like:
- May not pop all the kernels in one go
- Timing as not to burn some kernels may need some practice
Popcorn Maker FAQs
If you’re looking for a way to enjoy freshly popped popcorn at home, you’re probably wondering what to look for. Different machines use different popping methods, some are quite large, some require more work than others – there’s a lot to consider.
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To help you get delicious batches of popcorn from your new popcorn cooker, here’s our handy FAQ guide for popcorn makers:
The main methods of popping corn are on the hob, in the microwave or in an air popcorn popper. With a hot air machine the popcorn for air popper is nearly 100% popped because the circulation is really good. Stove top machines with a stirring rod are next on the list in terms of popping the most kernels and not leaving too many unpopped kernels. Microwave poppers tend to be the least effective as there is no stirring as the heat is applied to the corn.
However, you might like the process of shaking and stirring your pan on the stovetop. You might prefer the compact nature of a collapsible microwave bowl. So do consider other elements of the appliance in addition to how it makes popcorn as ultimately, all methods create popped corn, it is just some require a little more work than others to pop all the kernels.
If you are looking for a popcorn maker that is as healthy as possible, leaving you room to add your own flavours to the cups of popcorn you make, a hot air popper is a good choice. The best type will work quickly and efficiently. Look for signs in the reviews of most popcorn getting popped, which is a good sign the hot air design works well. In this article we reveal our top pick for hot air popcorn makers and discuss its pros and cons.
If you are looking for a popcorn machine for a home theater, the chances are an electric product that is minimally messy, and quick, is the best option. Some popcorn makers can create a serving bowl of popcorn in minutes, which is ideal when you’re setting up for a movie night. Look for speedy cooking, ease of use and a large capacity when choosing a popcorn maker for this reason.
Convenience should be near the top of your list when searching for a popcorn maker. If making popcorn is to you something you want to sort out quickly as you prepare a healthy snack for the kids lunches or, you make a tasty treat to go with a movie, then look for convenient benefits like: easy to clean features, a quick popping process, large capacity and easy to store features.
