When it comes to movie nights, we recognize the significance of having the perfect popcorn maker. With so many options to choose from, it can be a bit of a challenge finding the ideal one.
That's why we've put together a comprehensive list of the 14 best popcorn makers with butter melter to help elevate your movie night experience. From hot oil poppers to hot air poppers, there's a model for every preference and need.
But before you rush to make a decision, there are crucial factors you need to consider to ensure you find the ideal popcorn maker for your movie nights.
Key Takeaways
- The capacity and cleaning of the butter melter are important factors to consider when choosing a popcorn maker. A larger capacity allows for a delicious buttery coating on each kernel, and easy cleaning is essential for longevity and popcorn quality.
- User-friendly design is crucial for an enhanced popcorn-making experience. Look for clear instructions, easy-to-use controls, and a simple assembly. A clear and transparent popping chamber allows for monitoring of the popcorn, and a detachable and easily accessible butter melter makes cleaning convenient.
- Popping efficiency and butter distribution consistency are key factors in the quality of the popcorn. A good popcorn maker ensures that most, if not all, kernels are popped, and the butter melter should evenly distribute the butter for an enjoyable popcorn experience.
- Optimal popcorn quality enhances the overall movie night experience. The popcorn maker should produce fluffy and tasty popcorn, and the butter melter should effectively distribute the butter for a delicious coating.
West Bend Stir Crazy Hot Oil Popcorn Popper
The West Bend Stir Crazy Hot Oil Popcorn Popper is an ideal choice for popcorn enthusiasts who desire a convenient and efficient way to make up to 6 quarts of delicious popcorn with a built-in butter melter. With its motorized stirring rod and automatic reversal function, it ensures larger kernels and more pops per batch without any sticking issues.
The nonstick coated popping plate makes cleaning a breeze, while the heat-resistant handles and clear vented cover provide safety and visibility. Its nesting design allows for simple storage, and the built-in no-tangle cord wrap keeps things tidy. Weighing just 4.52 pounds, this electric popper is easy to handle and maintain.
The West Bend Stir Crazy Hot Oil Popcorn Popper is a must-have for anyone who enjoys hassle-free popcorn making with a touch of buttery goodness.
Best For: Popcorn enthusiasts who want a convenient and efficient way to make up to 6 quarts of delicious popcorn with a touch of buttery goodness.
Pros:
- Motorized stirring rod for larger kernels and more pops per batch
- Built-in butter well and snap-on butter cap for improved melting
- Nonstick coated popping plate for easy cleaning
Cons:
- Some customers had issues with uncooked popcorn
Ecolution Patented Micro-Pop Microwave Popcorn Popper, 1.5-Quart, Red
For those seeking a convenient and healthier way to enjoy gourmet popcorn at home, the Ecolution Patented Micro-Pop Microwave Popcorn Popper offers a versatile solution. It features a butter-melting feature and temperature-safe borosilicate glass construction.
This 1.5-quart, red popper is designed for fast gourmet popcorn without the need for oil or butter. The 3-in-1 lid not only measures kernels but also doubles as a butter melter, adding to the convenience.
With its dishwasher-safe borosilicate glass, cleaning up is a breeze. The popper's ability to circulate hot air prevents burning, ensuring a perfect batch every time. Users appreciate the popcorn's taste and the ease of use.
It's a great addition for healthy snacks, movie nights, and experimenting with various snack recipes. The Ecolution popper is a highly-rated, well-received option for those seeking a healthier and more sustainable snacking experience.
Best For: Popcorn enthusiasts seeking a convenient and healthier way to enjoy gourmet popcorn at home.
Pros:
- Fast gourmet popcorn without the need for oil or butter
- Dual-function lid for measuring kernels and melting butter
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
Cons:
- Potential risk of water getting between the plastic and glass during washing
Presto Poplite Hot Air Popcorn Popper (Aqua)
Ideal for those seeking a low-fat, heart-healthy snack option, the Presto Poplite Hot Air Popcorn Popper (Aqua) offers a convenient and efficient way to enjoy freshly popped popcorn without the use of oil. This hot air popper can produce up to 18 cups of popcorn in about 2 1/2 minutes, outperforming other leading poppers with virtually no unpopped kernels. The cap doubles as a measuring cup and butter-melting tray, adding to its convenience.
Additionally, hot air popcorn is a whole grain and a good source of fiber, making it a healthier and more economical option than microwave bag popcorn. While some users have reported issues with the butter melter, overall feedback highlights its ease of use, efficiency, and easy cleaning. With its compact size and built-in cord wrap, storage is convenient.
Best For: Health-conscious individuals looking for a convenient and efficient way to enjoy low-fat, heart-healthy popcorn without the use of oil.
Pros:
- Produces up to 18 cups of popcorn in about 2 1/2 minutes
- Hot air method results in virtually no unpopped kernels
- Easy to clean and compact for convenient storage
Cons:
- Some users may find the cord length inconvenient for certain setups
DASH Hot Air Popcorn Popper Maker – Red
A versatile choice for popcorn enthusiasts looking for a healthier, mess-free snack option with minimal cleanup is the DASH Hot Air Popcorn Popper Maker in Red. This quick and easy popcorn maker uses hot air instead of oil or microwave bags, making it a healthier choice. With a high capacity heating chamber that can produce up to 16 cups of popcorn, it's suitable for movie nights or entertaining guests. The included measuring cup also doubles as a butter melting tray, adding flavor to your popcorn. The manual operation with a one-touch start button makes it easy to use. The dishwasher-safe popping chute and butter tray simplify the cleaning process.
Although some customers have reported issues with unpopped kernels shooting out and operational noise, the overall positive reviews and competitive pricing make this popper a compelling option.
Best For: Movie enthusiasts and snack lovers looking for a healthier and convenient way to enjoy freshly popped popcorn at home.
Pros:
- Uses hot air instead of oil or microwave bags, offering a healthier option.
- High capacity heating chamber can produce up to 16 cups of popcorn, making it suitable for entertaining guests.
- Dishwasher-safe popping chute and butter tray simplify the cleaning process.
Cons:
- Some customers have reported issues with unpopped kernels shooting out during operation.
Coors Light Hot Air Popcorn Maker, Football Shaped Air Popper
The Coors Light Hot Air Popcorn Maker, Football Shaped Air Popper is perfect for sports and beer fans who enjoy healthy, oil-free popcorn with a touch of convenience. This officially branded air popper adds a fun, football-themed twist to movie nights or game days.
Using hot air circulation, it produces fluffy popcorn without the need for oil, ensuring a mess-free experience. The built-in serving bowl adds to the convenience, and the dishwasher-friendly parts make cleanup a breeze. Additionally, the kernel measuring cup doubles as a butter melter, allowing for easy customization.
With its official Coors Light Rocky Mountain themed graphics and football shape, it also makes for a great gift for sports and beer enthusiasts. At 3.1 pounds and with dimensions of 12.25 x 8.75 x 12.25 inches, it's a compact and fun addition to any entertainment space.
Best For: Sports and beer fans looking for a fun, convenient, and mess-free way to enjoy healthy, oil-free popcorn during movie nights or game days.
Pros:
- Uses hot air circulation for healthy air-popped popcorn
- Official Coors Light Rocky Mountain themed graphics and football shape
- Convenient built-in serving bowl
Cons:
- Some users experienced a high number of unpopped kernels
DASH Turbo POP Popcorn Maker – Aqua
With its compact design and multifunctional features, the DASH Turbo POP Popcorn Maker – Aqua is a convenient choice for popcorn enthusiasts seeking a space-saving and versatile option. The cyclonic air flow design ensures faster popping, reduces unpopped kernels, and eliminates overcooking.
This popcorn maker uses hot air to pop 8 cups of popcorn without oil or added preservatives, offering a healthier alternative to microwave bags. Its measuring cup doubles as a butter melting tray, perfect for creating movie theater-style popcorn.
While some users experienced kernels getting stuck and popping out of the top, the majority praised the popper's ability to pop most kernels and leave none burned. With positive feedback on the spinning action and the fun experience of watching the popcorn pop, this popper is a great addition to movie nights.
Best For: Movie enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals looking for a compact and convenient popcorn maker for movie nights and healthier snacking options.
Pros:
- Compact design suitable for small kitchens, apartments, dorms, or RVs
- Uses hot air to pop 8 cups of popcorn without oil or added preservatives
- Measuring cup doubles as a butter melting tray for movie theater-style popcorn
Cons:
- Some users experienced kernels getting stuck and popping out of the top
Coors Light Hot Air Popcorn Maker, Football Shaped Air Popper
For popcorn enthusiasts who appreciate convenience and a touch of sports-themed flair, the Coors Light Hot Air Popcorn Maker offers a fun and hassle-free way to enjoy oil-free snacks. This football-shaped air popper is an official Coors Light Rocky Mountain themed popcorn maker that uses hot air circulation to pop kernels. This results in fewer unpopped kernels and healthier snacking.
The popcorn maker comes with a Kernel Measuring Cup/Butter Melter, adding to the convenience. Additionally, it has a built-in serving bowl, making it easy to enjoy your freshly popped popcorn. The fast and easy cleanup of this portable and oil-free popcorn maker makes it a perfect gift for sports and beer fans.
The Coors Light Hot Air Popcorn Maker is a unique and practical addition to any movie night or game day gathering, adding a touch of excitement to snack time.
Best For: Movie nights, game day gatherings, and sports enthusiasts who want a convenient and fun way to enjoy oil-free snacks.
Pros:
- Uses hot air circulation for fewer unpopped kernels
- Includes Kernel Measuring Cup/Butter Melter for added convenience
- Portable and oil-free for healthier snacking
Cons:
- May not be suitable for those looking for traditional buttery popcorn flavor
Elite Gourmet Automatic Stirring 3Qt. Popcorn Maker Popper (EPM330M)
Ideal for popcorn enthusiasts seeking a convenient and efficient way to enjoy perfectly popped kernels, the Elite Gourmet Automatic Stirring 3Qt. Popcorn Maker Popper (EPM330M) offers quick-heat technology and an electric stirring rod for a delightful popcorn experience.
With its ability to pop up to 3 quarts of popcorn at once, this hot oil popcorn machine ensures faster popping and even heating, resulting in healthy and flavorful popcorn with no added preservatives. The nonstick popping hot plate is easy to clean, and its 2-in-1 transparent cover doubles as a serving bowl. The ventilated design keeps popcorn crispy, and the trusted brand's 40 years of experience speaks to its quality.
Customer reviews praise its performance, efficiency, compact design, and the machine's ability to produce tasty and healthy popcorn. While some feedback mentions concerns about the plastic cover for the butter well and cleaning process, the overall consensus is positive.
Best For: Popcorn enthusiasts who want a convenient and efficient way to enjoy perfectly popped kernels.
Pros:
- Quick-heat technology for faster popping
- Electric stirring rod for even heating and increased popping rate
- Healthy and flavorful popcorn with no preservatives added
Cons:
- Fragility of the plastic cover for the butter well
West Bend Stir Crazy Movie Theater Popcorn Popper
When craving movie theater-style popcorn at home, the West Bend Stir Crazy Movie Theater Popcorn Popper stands out with its 4-quart capacity and motorized stirring rod, making it an excellent choice for popcorn enthusiasts looking for a convenient and efficient popcorn maker.
This countertop machine comes with a non-stick stainless steel popcorn kettle, a serving scoop, and a ¼ cup kernel cup, offering a hassle-free popcorn-making experience. Its patented quick release lever and magnetic cover make it easy to empty and fill the kettle. The motorized stirring rod ensures more pops per batch, while the kernel catcher tray helps eliminate unpopped kernels.
While it may require some effort to clean, the machine's performance and the joy it brings to family and loved ones make it highly recommended. Additionally, it's ideal for serving a large number of guests and can be a cool gift for movie enthusiasts.
Best For: Movie enthusiasts and anyone looking for a convenient and efficient countertop popcorn maker.
Pros:
- 4-quart capacity for serving a large number of guests
- Motorized stirring rod for more pops per batch
- Comes with a serving scoop, kernel cup, and non-stick stainless steel kettle
Cons:
- Cleaning the machine can be a bit tedious
Cuisinart CPM-700P1 EasyPop Popcorn Maker, Red
The Cuisinart CPM-700P1 EasyPop Popcorn Maker, Red, offers a convenient and efficient way to enjoy freshly popped popcorn with customizable oil and salt levels. It is an excellent choice for popcorn enthusiasts who value versatility and simplicity.
The popcorn maker features a popping bowl with built-in ventilation and a cover, as well as a motorized stirring arm for even mixing. The brushed stainless steel base with an embossed logo and On/Off switch adds a touch of style to the appliance.
Cleaning is made easy with the removable non-stick aluminum cooking plate. With a capacity to pop up to 16 cups of popcorn, this popcorn maker is perfect for hosting movie nights or entertaining guests. The non-slip feet with cord storage add to its practicality.
For added peace of mind, the Cuisinart popcorn maker comes with a limited 3-year warranty. It is designed to meet the needs of popcorn lovers, providing an enjoyable and hassle-free popcorn popping experience.
Best For: Popcorn enthusiasts who want a versatile and user-friendly popcorn maker for enjoying customizable oil and salt levels in their popcorn.
Pros:
- Built-in ventilation and stirring arm for even mixing
- Easy to clean with removable non-stick aluminum cooking plate
- Pops up to 16 cups of popcorn
Cons:
- Some users reported issues with the levers that lock the plate onto the base
Goodful Silicone Popcorn Popper, Collapsible Microwavable Popcorn Maker
With its fast gourmet popcorn popping and dual function lid for melting butter, the Goodful Silicone Popcorn Popper is a convenient choice for those seeking a versatile and easy-to-use popcorn maker with a butter melter.
This collapsible hot air microwavable popcorn maker has a 3-quart capacity and is made without BPA. Its compact, collapsible design allows for easy storage, and it pops evenly with few unpopped kernels, resulting in tender and easy-to-chew popcorn.
Additionally, the Goodful Silicone Popcorn Popper is dishwasher safe, making it easy to clean. Users have praised its performance, taste, and ease of use, and it has received positive feedback for being a high-quality, homemade alternative to prepackaged bags.
The popper's ability to melt butter and be used for other purposes like melting chocolate adds to its appeal.
Best For: Those looking for a convenient and versatile popcorn maker with the added feature of melting butter.
Pros:
- Fast gourmet popcorn popping
- Dual function lid for melting butter
- Compact and collapsible design for easy storage
Cons:
- Bowl can get hot; caution advised
Elite Gourmet Fast Hot Air Popcorn Popper (4-Quart, Yellow)
Ideal for those seeking a convenient and healthier way to enjoy freshly popped popcorn, the Elite Gourmet Fast Hot Air Popcorn Popper (4-Quart, Yellow) utilizes hot air technology to produce up to 4 quarts of oil-free popcorn in less than 3 minutes. This popcorn popper comes with a measuring cup and butter melting tray, making it easy to add flavor. Its built-in stirring system ensures even popping, and the popped corn is conveniently directed into a bowl.
The compact design and electric operation make it a space-saving and user-friendly choice for any movie night. Despite some minor complaints about cord length and unpopped kernels, the majority of customers have praised its performance, ease of use, and space-saving design. For those seeking a reliable and efficient popcorn maker, the Elite Gourmet Fast Hot Air Popcorn Popper is a top contender.
Best For: Movie enthusiasts looking for a convenient and healthier way to enjoy freshly popped popcorn at home.
Pros:
- Utilizes hot air technology for oil-free popcorn
- Built-in stirring system for even popping
- Compact design and electric operation for user-friendly experience
Cons:
- Short cord length
DASH SmartStore™ Stirring Popcorn Maker, 3QT Hot Oil Electric Popcorn Machine – Aqua
For those who enjoy making gourmet movie-theater-style popcorn at home with the added convenience of a built-in butter melting tray, the DASH SmartStore™ Stirring Popcorn Maker, 3QT Hot Oil Electric Popcorn Machine in Aqua offers a compact and easy-to-use option. This popcorn maker can produce up to 12 cups of fresh, fluffy popcorn, and its built-in measuring cup allows for portioning 4, 8, or 12 cups of popped kernels. The cover with vents also serves as a butter melting tray, enhancing the flavor of the popcorn. Additionally, its compact design allows the base to nest inside the lid for convenient storage. Customers have praised its functionality, ease of cleaning, and the quality of popcorn it produces. Some users have mentioned minor issues such as the potential for oil splashing and condensation-related mess when adding butter.
Overall, the DASH SmartStore™ Stirring Popcorn Maker offers a delightful popcorn-making experience for movie nights.
Best For: Those who enjoy making gourmet movie-theater-style popcorn at home with the added convenience of a built-in butter melting tray.
Pros:
- Produces up to 12 cups of fresh, fluffy popcorn
- Built-in measuring cup for portioning 4, 8, or 12 cups of popped kernels
- Compact design for convenient storage
Cons:
- Potential for oil splashing when leaving the top open for steam to exit
Presto 04821 Orville Redenbachers Hot Air Popper, 1 Liters, White
The Presto 04821 Orville Redenbachers Hot Air Popper is a top choice for those seeking a quick and healthy popcorn option. It has a fast popping capability, popping up to 18 cups of popcorn in less than 2-1/2 minutes. This hot air popper offers a guilt-free snack with just 30 calories per two-cup serving and 0 calories from fat. Its easy-to-clean design, along with the butter melter that doubles as a measuring cup, adds to its appeal.
However, some users have reported issues with the butter melter not functioning well as a warmer, occasional popcorn flying out, and the absence of an on/off switch. Despite these concerns, the Presto 04821 remains a popular choice, providing a quick, low-calorie popcorn option for movie nights and snacks.
Best For: Health-conscious individuals looking for a quick and low-calorie popcorn option.
Pros:
- Fast popping capability, producing up to 18 cups of popcorn in less than 2-1/2 minutes.
- Low calorie count, with just 30 calories per two-cup serving and 0 calories from fat.
- Easy-to-clean design with a butter melter that doubles as a measuring cup.
Cons:
- Butter melter doesn't work well as a warmer.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Popcorn Maker With Butter Melter
When choosing a popcorn maker with a butter melter, we need to consider various factors.
The capacity of the butter melter, the ease of cleaning and maintenance, and the overall user-friendly design are important points to consider.
Additionally, the quality of the popcorn produced by the maker is a crucial factor to keep in mind.
Features to Consider
Consider the size and capacity of the popcorn maker with butter melter to ensure it meets your needs for serving. A larger capacity is ideal for hosting movie nights or gatherings, whereas a smaller one might be sufficient for personal use.
Look for a non-stick butter melter to make cleaning easier and ensure that the butter is evenly distributed. Additionally, consider the popping efficiency and speed of the machine. A fast and efficient popcorn maker can save time and prevent burnt kernels. Some models also offer customizable options for butter distribution, allowing you to control the amount of butter used.
Lastly, check for safety features such as heat-resistant handles and transparent lids to monitor the popping process. These factors contribute to an enjoyable popcorn-making experience.
Butter Melter Capacity
To ensure butter melter capacity meets your popcorn-making needs, consider the amount of butter the machine can accommodate without overwhelming the popcorn. The butter melter capacity is crucial because it determines how much butter you can add to your popcorn. A larger capacity allows for more butter, ensuring that each kernel gets a delicious buttery coating.
It's essential to choose a popcorn maker with a butter melter that can hold enough butter for your desired serving size. If you enjoy heavily buttered popcorn, a larger capacity will be more suitable, while those who prefer a lighter coating may find a smaller capacity sufficient.
Assessing the butter melter capacity will help guarantee that your popcorn turns out just the way you like it, perfectly buttered and ready for movie night.
Cleaning and Maintenance
We find that keeping the popcorn maker with butter melter clean and well-maintained is essential for its longevity and the quality of the popcorn it produces.
When choosing a popcorn maker with a butter melter, consider models with removable parts that are dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning. Additionally, look for non-stick surfaces and accessible crevices to simplify the cleaning process.
Regular maintenance, such as wiping down components after each use and removing any residual butter or oil, can prolong the lifespan of the popcorn maker. Some models also come with maintenance instructions or cleaning tools to aid in upkeep.
Prioritizing cleaning and maintenance not only ensures a better popcorn experience but also contributes to the overall durability and performance of the popcorn maker with butter melter.
User-Friendly Design
When selecting a popcorn maker with a butter melter, it's important to prioritize a user-friendly design that enhances the overall popcorn-making experience.
Look for features such as clear instructions, easy-to-use controls, and simple assembly. A clear and transparent popping chamber allows you to monitor the popcorn as it pops, preventing any burnt kernels.
Additionally, a well-designed butter melter should be easily accessible and detachable for convenient cleaning. Consider a popcorn maker with a built-in stirring mechanism to ensure even butter distribution and prevent any clumping.
Ergonomic handles and heat-resistant materials are also essential for safe and comfortable handling. Ultimately, a user-friendly design not only streamlines the popcorn-making process but also ensures that anyone, regardless of their experience level, can enjoy delicious, buttery popcorn with ease.
Popcorn Quality
Considering the importance of achieving optimal popcorn quality, selecting a popcorn maker with a butter melter involves evaluating key factors such as kernel popping efficiency and butter distribution consistency.
The kernel popping efficiency is crucial as it directly impacts the fluffiness and taste of the popcorn. A good popcorn maker should ensure that most, if not all, kernels are popped, minimizing wastage and ensuring a satisfying batch of popcorn.
Additionally, butter distribution consistency is vital for an enjoyable popcorn experience. The butter should be evenly melted and distributed, ensuring that each kernel is coated for a consistent flavor.
When choosing a popcorn maker with a butter melter, these factors play a significant role in determining the quality of the popcorn produced, ultimately enhancing the movie night experience.
Durability and Reliability
Selecting a popcorn maker with a butter melter requires careful consideration of its durability and reliability to ensure consistent performance over time.
When evaluating durability, look for popcorn makers constructed from high-quality materials such as stainless steel or heat-resistant plastic, as these are more likely to withstand regular use without wear and tear.
Additionally, consider the reliability of the popcorn maker by researching customer reviews and product warranties. A reliable popcorn maker should consistently produce evenly popped kernels and effectively melt butter without frequent malfunctions.
Look for features such as sturdy construction, reliable heating elements, and easy-to-clean components to ensure a long-lasting and dependable popcorn-making experience.
Prioritizing durability and reliability will lead to a satisfying and long-lasting investment in a popcorn maker with a butter melter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use the Popcorn Maker With Butter Melter to Make Other Types of Snacks Besides Popcorn?
Yes, we can use the popcorn maker with butter melter to make other types of snacks besides popcorn.
The butter melter can be used to add delicious flavor to a variety of snacks, such as roasted nuts, pretzels, or even to drizzle over homemade potato chips.
Experimenting with different snacks can enhance your movie night experience and add a tasty touch to your favorite treats.
How Long Does It Take for the Butter to Melt in the Butter Melter?
It takes about 3-5 minutes for the butter to melt in the butter melter. We've found that it's pretty quick and convenient, especially when we're eager to get our movie night started.
Just pop the butter in, and by the time the popcorn is ready, the butter is perfectly melted.
It's a small but essential part of our movie night routine, and we love how easy it's to use.
Are the Popcorn Makers With Butter Melters Easy to Clean?
Yes, the popcorn makers with butter melters are easy to clean.
We've found that the removable parts can be easily washed by hand or in the dishwasher, making the cleaning process a breeze.
The non-stick surfaces also help prevent any stubborn butter or oil residue from sticking, so maintenance is hassle-free.
Can I Use Different Types of Butter in the Butter Melter?
Isn't it intriguing that we can use various types of butter in the butter melter? Yes, we can!
Different types like salted, unsalted, or even flavored can be used to enhance the popcorn's taste. It's a great feature of these popcorn makers.
This flexibility allows us to personalize our popcorn experience and cater to different taste preferences.
Can I Control the Amount of Butter That Is Dispensed Onto the Popcorn?
Yes, we can control the amount of butter dispensed onto the popcorn. The butter melter typically comes with adjustable settings, allowing us to regulate the flow of butter onto the popcorn.
This feature provides flexibility in customizing the buttery flavor to suit our preferences. We can easily adjust the dispenser to achieve the perfect balance of buttery goodness for our movie night popcorn.
Conclusion
So, if you're looking to elevate your movie nights with perfectly popped popcorn and melted butter, these 14 options have got you covered.
And if you're worried about the hassle of cleaning up after using a popcorn maker, fear not! Many of these models are easy to clean and maintain, so you can enjoy your movie night without any added stress.
Happy popping!
From sneaky childhood butter licks to penning some of our most popular articles, Jamie’s journey with butter has been lifelong. His culinary background gives him a unique perspective, allowing him to craft mouthwatering articles that educate and tantalize equally. Jamie’s travel adventures revolve around finding the world’s best buttery treats when he isn’t writing.
