HTmarket.com has a broad selection of Popcorn Machines, in a huge variety of styles, sizes, and capabilities. If you're new to purchasing or using a popcorn machine, you might have some questions. Hopefully, this list of the most frequently asked questions will be something you find useful! If you have any further questions, please feel free to call our knowledgeable and experienced staff at 1-888-764-9273.
HTmarket.com Popcorn Machines and Supplies
1: What popcorn machine should I choose?
This is based on servings needed as answered in question #2 below. You should also consider price/value, build quality, features and warranty information.
How to Choose a Popcorn Machine
Watch our video on how to select the right size popcorn popper for your situation. Professor talks about popcorn kettle size and why it's important to know the output you need to select the right equipment. He also speaks to your usage and how that will effect your decision on the popper.
2: What Size Popcorn Machine Do I Need?
Popcorn machines are grouped by the size (in ounces) of the kettle. The best way to determine the size of machine you will need is to figure out how many one-ounce servings you will go through during a two hour movie. A single 1-ounce serving is a bag approximately 3 -1/2" wide by 2" deep and 8" tall (This serving size is roughly equivalent to a small popcorn at your local movie theater). If you have a home theater, consider this: you may only have 30 minutes to pop the popcorn or less before the movie to keep the popcorn fresh, and you don't want to reload the machine during the movie. To be conservative, you should use two 1-ounce servings per person. For example, if you have 10 people you will need 20 ounces of popcorn, so with a 4-ounce machine you will need to reload 5 times at a approximately 3 to 4 minutes a time. The 4-ounce machine could handle the job but the 8 ounce machine would do it quicker and with less hassle, requiring perhaps 2 reloads. If you usually have a smaller crowd (2-6 people), the 4-ounce machine would be great. However, if you entertain larger crowds on a regular basis, you should consider the 6 or 8 ounce machines. We sell the best brand popcorn equipment from Paragon International, Benchmark USA, and Cretors.
Helpful Links
- 4oz Popcorn Machines
- Commercial Popcorn Machines
3: What makes popcorn pop?
A popcorn kernel is actually comprised of approximately 12% moisture . As you heat up the kernel, the moisture turns into steam and expands. Once the kernel reaches 475 degrees Fahrenheit, the expanding steam forces the hull to explode (or pop). That's when the magic happens!
How to Make Popcorn with a Popcorn Popper
Watch our video on how to make popcorn with a professional popper. We show you how easy it is to use popcorn portion packs.
4: What type of oil should I use to cook popcorn?
The type of oil that you use will affect the taste of the popcorn. The most common type that is used is coconut oil. It's normally regarded as the best tasting, and has long been a staple at movie theaters. However, the health-conscious often prefer canola oil, due to its lower fat and cholesterol content. Other types that are often used are sunflower, peanut and soy.
Helpful Links- Popcorn Machines and Popcorn Supplies
5: What's the best way to keep my popcorn machine clean?
These surfaces can be cleaned using standard window cleaner. You'll want to note that you should never submerge a kettle in any type of liquid. The kettle has electrical components inside of it that can short out if wet. Kettles are designed to be wiped out with a clean cloth after each use. Should you have a kettle that gets burned-on oil stains, you can order the kettle cleaning kit, which will allow you to clean it to near-new conditions.
Helpful Links
- Antique Popcorn Machine
- Contemporary Popcorn Machine
- Popcorn Supplies
6: What's the best ratio of oil to corn for popcorn machines?
It's important to know the best ratio of oil to corn kernels when running your popcorn machine, especially if you are using the bulk popcorn instead of the prepackaged corn and seasoning. So how much corn or oil do you use? Well it all depends on the size of your popcorn machine's kettle!
Bulk Corn/Oil Measurements for Popcorn Machines
| Size of Machine | Amount of Oil | Amount of Corn |
|---|
| 4 oz. | 1/4 cup | 1/2 cup |
| 6 oz. | 1/4 cup | 3/4 cup |
| 8 oz. | 1/3 cup | 1 cup |
| 12 oz. | 1/2 cup | 1 1/2 cups |
| 14 oz. | 1/2 cup | 1 3/4 cups |
| 16 oz. | 2/3 cup | 2 cups |
| 20 oz. | 3/4 cup | 2 1/2 cups |
Helpful Links
- Bulk Popcorn
Also be sure to check out our handy Popcorn Machine Guide for more information on popcorn machines!
FAQs
Pick #1: Coconut oil
Coconut oil is the most popular oil used for popcorn machines, especially at movie theaters. You can often find coconut oils with butter flavoring, which helps create that classic movie theater taste. While this oil isn't the lightest on calories, your customers will definitely love the flavor.
What are some fun facts about the popcorn machine? ›
The first commercial popcorn machine was invented by Charles Cretors in 1885. Nebraska produces the most popcorn in America, around 250 million pounds per year. Microwaveable popcorn was invented by Pillsbury in 1982. Popcorn is a healthy GMO-free and gluten-free snack.
How long does it take for popcorn to pop in a popcorn maker? ›
Your popcorn machine will take about 5-7 minutes to heat up the kettle to be ready to pop. Simply add the contents of a portion pack and you'll have popcorn in about 4-5 minutes.
How many tablespoons of oil do I need for a popcorn machine? ›
Two tablespoons of oil and 1/4 cup of popcorn. If your off a little bit it won't matter. Make sure the popper has warmed up before you add(5 minutes) but turn it off when you add the oil and popcorn.
What happens if you put too much oil in popcorn machine? ›
Kernels that have too much of oil slathered around them are difficult to pop and they end up being soggy. In order to avoid this from happening you can use two tablespoons of oil for half a cup of popcorn.
What are 5 facts about popcorn? ›
10 Fun Popcorn Facts
- Popcorn is the official snack of Illinois. ...
- Popcorn comes in two shapes: “snowflake” or “mushroom.” Movie theaters use “snowflake” shaped popcorn because it's bigger.
- Americans eat around 17 billion quarts of popcorn every year.
There are a few possible explanations why unpopped popcorn kernels are referred to as “old maids.” It might be because unpopped kernels don't contain enough moisture to create a burst. Also, as the unpopped kernel fails to pop, the parallel is made with an old maid who remains unmarried beyond the usual age.
What was the popcorn machine invented? ›
When was the first popcorn machine invented? In 1885, however, Charles Cretors invented the first commercial, large-scale popcorn machine, which increased the opportunity for the production of popcorn.
Why is my popcorn not popping in popcorn machine? ›
So it really comes down to two possibilities. Your popcorn doesn't have enough moisture to pop, or it isn't getting hot enough. Most likely it's the moisture level.
Can you add butter to a popcorn machine? ›
To make popcorn, we use half a stick of butter, a cup of popcorn, and a half teaspoon of Flavacol (which makes it taste exactly like movie theater popcorn). If you prefer, you can also use oil instead of butter or salt instead of Flavacol.
Your popcorn machine should be cleaned at the end of each day for the best results. Not only does this keep you in the clear in case of a health inspection, but it helps your machine run strong longer. Popcorn machine filters should be washed or replaced on a weekly basis or according to manufacturer instructions.
What kind of oil is best for popcorn machine? ›
The type of oil that you use will affect the taste of the popcorn. The most common type that is used is coconut oil. It's normally regarded as the best tasting, and has long been a staple at movie theaters. However, the health-conscious often prefer canola oil, due to its lower fat and cholesterol content.
How to flavour popcorn in a popcorn machine? ›
You can add flavour during cooking, if you wish, by drizzling salt, sugar or melted butter through the top. Why not experiment with a variety of toppings? How about chocolate, maple syrup or even bacon and cheese?
What kind of oil do movie theaters use to pop popcorn? ›
It's a personal preference—and there are certainly people who eat both and wouldn't even notice the difference.” AMC, Regal, and Marcus theaters use coconut oil, while Cinemark opts for canola, and other regional chains use a blend.
What oil is healthiest for popping popcorn? ›
Use walnut, avocado or extra virgin olive oils
Walnut, avocado or extra virgin olive oils are best when making popcorn on the stovetop. Canola oil is the next best option. Flaxseed and wheat germ oil shouldn't be heated, so they don't really work for popping popcorn.
Is it better to put olive oil or butter on popcorn? ›
Olive oil is a healthy and tasty alternative to butter. There are several kinds of olive oil, but you want to choose one with a mild flavor for your popcorn. A good quality olive oil has a rich flavor and provides heart-healthy fats.
Can I use olive oil in a popcorn machine? ›
A: We have this popper and love it! I like to use canola oil and my husband likes the taste of olive oil when he makes it. We have tried the taste of flavored popcorn oils and don't like them. I am sure you will enjoy experimenting and discovering which you like best.
