Hamilton Beach Built-In Measuring Cup Hot Air Popcorn Maker
Last updated: March 2, 2023
Our Review Process
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We looked at the top Hot Air Popcorn Makers and dug through the reviews from some of the most popular review sites. Through this analysis, we've determined the best Hot Air Popcorn Maker you should buy.
Overall Take
This red Hamilton Beach popcorn maker takes just a few minutes to work, and the built-in measuring cup makes it even easier to use. Pop as many as 18 cups in just one batch.
In our analysis of 15 expert reviews, the Hamilton Beach Built-In Measuring Cup Hot Air Popcorn Maker placed 6th when we looked at the top 6 products in the category. For the full ranking, see below.From The Manufacturer
QUICK AND EASY SNACK: Make hot and delicious popcorn in just minutes. It’s easy to use – just add the kernels with the built in measuring cup, plug it in and let the fun begin. SERVES A CROWD: Pops up to 18 cups per batch for a crowd. HOT AIR = HEALTHY: Uses hot air for a healthy snack, no oil or fats needed. POPS INTO YOUR FAVORITE BOWL: Pops into your favorite bowl for easy serving and cleanup. PERSONALIZED TO YOUR TASTE: Customize your snack just the way you want, healthy or decadent, it’s up to you. Add melted butter and salt for traditional tastes or try something different like Parmesan cheese, chili powder or cinnamon sugar. Add popcorn to roasted nuts, chocolate chips, and dried fruit to make a satisfying trail mix. MULTI-FUNCTIONAL CUP: Measuring cup doubles as a butter melting cup. As the popcorn pops, hot air melts the butter and you can pour it on the freshly popped kernels. EASY TO CLEAN: With no oil needed, clean-up is a snap. After the unit is completely cooled, you can wash the popping chute and measuring cup in warm soapy water.
Expert Reviews
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Overview
Making popcorn in a frying pan was the original way to enjoy this snack at home, but inventors first introduced hot-air popcorn makers for consumers in the 1970s. However, once the microwave was invented, its ease of use made hot-air poppers practically obsolete.
Now, like so many bygone things, these popcorn poppers are back in a big way because many consider them as a healthier way to make the beloved snack. They do not use oil; you only need hot air.
Hot-air popcorn makers work by spinning popcorn kernels in central chambers. As the kernels reach the outside, they encounter hot air generated by an electrical element. It takes a few minutes for the tiny amount of water in every kernel to convert into steam. The kernel’s hull cannot resist the pressure and explodes; when the air hits the starchy fibers inside, you have popcorn. It then travels out through a plastic chute and lands in a bowl.
Most hot-air popcorn makers have built-in or included cups to measure the kernels, but you can also use these to melt butter or add seasonings. The best thing about these poppers is that no oil is required, so they can pop large amounts of kernels without having to stop and add anything, and there’s virtually no cleanup afterward! Many people eat the popped kernels without embellishment, but you should feel free to add salt, sugar, nuts, chocolate chips, candies or other mix-ins to make the most of movie night!
Hot-air poppers come in different colors, and some even have decorative details that you might like. They do cost more than other popcorn makers, but you will save money in the long run over constantly buying microwave popcorn, as bulk popcorn kernels are much cheaper.
Buying Advice
- Some hot-air popcorn makers can produce more popcorn than others, so get a bigger one if you plan to feed many people.
- Only add the recommended amount of kernels; otherwise, the machine may overheat.
- For cleanup, read the manufacturer’s instructions. The chute and measuring cup might be safe to put in the dishwasher but not the central part of the unit.
- Always empty the base after popping because un-popped kernels can burn the next time you use the popper.
- Do not add anything to the machine before the kernels. Sprinkle on salt and add butter and goodies after the popcorn is in your serving bowl.