The Dash SmartStore Deluxe Stirring Popcorn Maker – Aqua delivers a theater-style popcorn experience right in your home with its practical, easy-to-use design. Able to whip up as much as 24 cups of hot, fresh popcorn per batch, it’s perfect for film nights, family treats, or hosting friends. The clear serving bowl lets you watch and enjoy your popcorn immediately, while the well-designed storage lid helps keep any extras crisp and ready for later.
A major benefit of this popcorn maker is its simplicity and efficiency. Simply add oil and kernels, press the start button, and the integrated stirring rod ensures even popping for kernels of all sizes. The built-in butter-melting tray, which also serves as a steam vent, lets you melt butter and infuse flavor while cooking. The lid features a measuring cup for precise portioning—8, 16, or 24 cups—so you never have to guess the right amount, reducing waste and ensuring consistent results.
Additionally, the SmartStore design focuses on everyday convenience. After popping popcorn, the base fits neatly inside the bowl, and the lid secures on top, allowing for compact and organized storage—even in small kitchens. Users also appreciate how simple it is to clean, thanks to the nonstick surface and removable stirring rod; leftover oil and residue can usually be wiped away with minimal effort.
Specification
Here are the specifications for Dash SmartStore Deluxe Stirring Popcorn Maker – Aqua:
General & Performance
- Capacity: up to 24 cups of popped popcorn.
- Works with 8, 16 or 24 cup batches (depending on how many kernels / oil you measure).
- Heating: Electric hot-oil popping (not air-popped).
- Power: 850 W.
- Voltage requirement (as sold in standard markets): 120 V ~ 60 Hz.
Design, Capacity & Dimensions
- Features a clear serving container, which doubles as a bowl for serving, along with a lid to keep remaining popcorn fresh.
- Integrated measuring cup in the lid for precise portion control.
- Integrated stirring rod guarantees uniform popping for all kernel sizes.
- The lid also functions as a butter-melting tray and steam vent, allowing butter to be added while popcorn pops.
- Compact / SmartStore design: the base nests inside the bowl for storage — more space-efficient.
- Approximate product dimensions: 13.3 in (L) × 11.3 in (W) × 11.2 in (H).
- Approximate item weight: around 3.15 kilograms (~6.9 lbs).
Included Components & Use Info
- Includes the main popcorn machine, a transparent serving bowl that also functions as a storage lid, a lid-mounted measuring cup, and a user guide.
- For best results, wash non-stick surfaces and removable components by hand.
Key Features
Here are the key features of the Dash SmartStore Deluxe Stirring Popcorn Maker – Aqua:
- Large-batch capacity — Produces up to 24 cups of popcorn per batch, perfect for movie nights, family treats, or hosting friends.
- Built-in measuring cup — The lid functions as a measuring cup with indicators for 8, 16, or 24 cups, allowing you to portion the exact amount of kernels.
- Stirring bar for even popping — An integrated stirring rod turns the kernels as they cook, promoting even popping and minimizing un-popped kernels; suitable for all kernel sizes.
- Butter-melting tray / steam-vent lid — The lid also serves as a butter-melting tray, letting you infuse fresh buttery flavor as the popcorn pops.
- Transparent serving bowl — The transparent bowl allows you to see the popcorn pop and also serves as a bowl for serving once done.
- Compact, stackable SmartStore design — When not in use, the base fits inside the bowl and the lid closes on top for compact, organized storage.
- Simple, one-touch operation — Simply add oil and kernels, press start, and let the popcorn maker handle the rest — no fuss, no complicated steps.
- Versatility & convenience — The design allows you to enjoy theater-style popcorn at home with minimal mess; the bowl and measuring cup are detachable for easy cleaning, and operation is simple.
How to use the DASH SmartStore™ Deluxe Stirring Popcorn Maker
Here’s a clear, easy How to Use guide for the Dash SmartStore Deluxe Stirring Popcorn Maker – Aqua:
- Set Up the Popcorn Maker
Set the popcorn maker on a level, stable surface. Ensure the bowl is properly seated on the heating base. Take off the measuring cup/butter tray from the lid to open the vent. - Add Oil and Kernels
Add your chosen cooking oil to the heating plate (typically 1–2 tbsp depending on batch size). Use the measuring cup to measure 8, 16, or 24 cups of kernels and pour them into the base, spreading evenly. - Start Popping
Set the transparent bowl onto the base and lock it in place. Reattach the measuring cup on top if melting butter, adding a small amount to drip onto the popcorn as it cooks. Press start, and the internal stirring rod will rotate automatically for even popping. - Flip & Serve
When the popping slows to 2–3 seconds between kernels, turn off the machine. Using oven mitts or a towel (as the unit may be hot), invert the unit so the bowl becomes the serving dish and the base sits on top. Carefully remove the base, and your popcorn is ready to enjoy. - Clean & Store
Let all components cool fully. Clean the heating plate with a soft cloth, and hand-wash the bowl, lid, and measuring cup. Nest the base inside the bowl and cover with the lid for neat, space-saving SmartStore storage.
Tips and recipe suitable for the DASH SmartStore™ Deluxe Stirring Popcorn Maker
Here are useful tips and easy recipes perfect for the Dash SmartStore Deluxe Stirring Popcorn Maker:
Tips for Best Results
- Use the right oil.
Coconut oil, canola oil, vegetable oil, or avocado oil all work well. Avoid butter directly on the plate (use the butter-melting tray instead). - Pre-measure kernels for accuracy.
Measure kernels with the integrated cup to prevent overfilling — this helps avoid burning and ensures uniform popping. - Don’t skip the stirring rod.
Ensure the stirring rod is correctly positioned before use; this minimizes unpopped kernels and prevents burning. - Add seasonings after popping.
Place the popcorn in a large bowl, coat first with melted butter or oil, then sprinkle powdered seasonings for better adhesion. - Keep the lid vent clear.
This allows steam to escape, keeping your popcorn crisp rather than soggy. - Flip carefully and let steam escape.
Once popping ceases, power off the machine and carefully invert it to avoid hot steam. - Clean immediately after cooling.
Clean the heating plate with a soft cloth to prevent oil residue from accumulating.
Easy Recipes Suitable for the Popcorn Maker
1. Classic Movie-Style Butter Popcorn
Ingredients:
- ½ cup kernels (for 24 cups)
- 1–2 tbsp coconut or canola oil
- 2–3 tbsp melted butter
- Salt to taste
Steps:
- Add oil and kernels to the base.
- Add butter to the warming tray to melt as the popcorn starts popping.
- Pop, flip, and drizzle the melted butter over the popcorn.
- Sprinkle salt and toss to coat.
2. Sweet Caramel Popcorn
Ingredients:
- Popped popcorn from the Dash machine
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup butter
- 1 tbsp corn syrup or honey
- Pinch of salt
Steps:
- Pop your popcorn and transfer it to a large bowl.
- In a small pot, melt butter, brown sugar, syrup, and salt.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thick.
- Drizzle over the popcorn and mix quickly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
3. Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Popcorn
Ingredients:
- Freshly popped popcorn
- 2 tbsp melted butter or olive oil
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Pinch of parsley (optional)
Steps:
- Drizzle butter/oil over the popcorn.
- Sprinkle Parmesan and garlic powder.
- Toss until evenly coated.
- Add parsley for extra flavor.
4. Spicy Chili-Lime Popcorn
Ingredients:
- Popped popcorn
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp lime zest or a few drops of lime juice
- Salt to taste
Steps:
- Add melted butter to the popcorn.
- Mix chili powder, paprika, and salt.
- Sprinkle and toss well.
- Add a light touch of lime for a zesty kick.
Cleaning Guide
Here’s a clear and safe How to Clean guide for the Dash SmartStore Deluxe Stirring Popcorn Maker – Aqua:
1. Unplug and Let Everything Cool
Once popping is finished, switch off and unplug the machine. Let the base, bowl, and lid cool fully before cleaning to avoid burns and preserve the non-stick coating.
2. Clean the Clear Bowl, Lid & Measuring Cup
These parts are the easiest to wash.
- Wash with warm water and light dish soap.
- Clean with a soft sponge to prevent scratching the clear plastic.
- Rinse and dry thoroughly before storing.
(Avoid placing parts in the dishwasher unless your model’s manual specifies they are dishwasher-safe.)
3. Wipe the Heating Plate
Do not immerse the heating plate in water.
- Wipe off oil or residue using a damp cloth or soft sponge.
- For stubborn areas, apply a small amount of mild soap to a cloth, then wipe again with a clean, damp cloth.
- Dry with a soft towel.
- Do not use abrasive pads, steel wool, or strong cleaners, as they can harm the non-stick surface.
4. Clean the Stirring Rod
If removable:
- Remove it gently from the base.
- Wash with warm soapy water, rinse, and dry.
If non-removable:
- Gently clean around it using a damp cloth.
5. Remove Oil Buildup (Optional Deep Clean)
If oil film builds up over time:
- Mix a little baking soda with water to form a paste.
- Gently rub it onto the heating surface using a soft cloth.
- Wipe clean with a damp cloth and dry.
This helps restore the finish without scratching.
6. Store Properly
Once completely dry:
- Place the base within the transparent bowl (SmartStore design) for easy storage.
- Place the lid on top and store in a cool, dry area.
What to avoid when using the DASH SmartStore™ Deluxe Stirring Popcorn Maker
Here’s a clear and helpful What to Avoid When Using guide for the Dash SmartStore Deluxe Stirring Popcorn Maker – Aqua:
1. Avoid Overfilling the Kernels or Oil
Adding more kernels or oil than the measuring cup recommends can cause:
- Burning
- Overflowing popcorn
- Uneven popping
Always stick to 8, 16, or 24-cup measurements exactly.
2. Avoid Putting Butter Directly on the Heating Plate
Butter can scorch easily and harm the non-stick coating. Always use the lid’s built-in butter-melting tray.
3. Avoid Touching or Moving the Unit While Hot
The base, bowl, and lid become very hot.
Do not lift, shake, or invert the unit until the popping cycle is complete and the machine is switched off.
4. Avoid Using Metal Utensils or Abrasive Cleaners
These can scratch the non-stick heating plate and reduce performance.
Use soft cloths or silicone tools only.
5. Avoid Blocking the Steam Vent
The vent on the lid must stay open to release steam.
Preventing airflow causes soggy popcorn and can hold in excess pressure.
6. Avoid Leaving the Popper Unattended
Hot oil popcorn makers operate at high temperatures.
Always remain close to avoid burning or overheating.
7. Avoid Submerging the Base in Water
The heating base contains electrical components.
Wipe with a damp cloth only; do not soak or rinse under running water.
8. Avoid Using Spray Oils
Spray cooking oils can leave a sticky buildup that’s hard to clean and may harm the non-stick surface.
In conclusion, the Dash SmartStore Deluxe Stirring Popcorn Maker – Aqua is a convenient, easy-to-use appliance that delivers delicious, evenly popped popcorn with minimal effort. Its SmartStore design, large capacity, and simple cleanup make it a practical choice for families and movie lovers. Overall, it’s a reliable, space-saving popcorn maker that enhances any snacking experience.