Introduction
Thank you for choosing the DASH SmartStore™ Deluxe Stirring Popcorn Maker. This appliance is designed to provide a convenient and efficient way to make delicious, movie-theater-style popcorn at home. With its innovative stirring mechanism and versatile design, you can enjoy perfectly popped kernels and easy cleanup.
This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use of your popcorn maker, including setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting tips. Please read it thoroughly before first use and keep it for future reference.
Important Safeguards
When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should always be followed, including:
- Read all instructions before operating the appliance.
- Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs.
- To protect against electrical shock, do not immerse cord, plugs, or appliance in water or other liquid.
- Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used by or near children.
- Unplug from outlet when not in use and before cleaning. Allow to cool before putting on or taking off parts.
- Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug, or after the appliance malfunctions or has been damaged in any manner.
- The use of accessory attachments not recommended by the appliance manufacturer may cause injuries.
- Do not use outdoors.
- Do not let cord hang over edge of table or counter, or touch hot surfaces.
- Do not place on or near a hot gas or electric burner, or in a heated oven.
- Extreme caution must be used when moving an appliance containing hot oil or other hot liquids.
- Do not use appliance for other than intended use.
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information, go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Product Overview
The DASH SmartStore™ Deluxe Stirring Popcorn Maker is designed for ease of use and convenient storage. It features a stirring bar for even popping and a multi-functional lid that doubles as a serving bowl and storage solution.
The complete Dash SmartStore Deluxe Stirring Popcorn Maker, showcasing the base unit with a clear dome filled with freshly popped popcorn, and a separate serving bowl also filled with popcorn.
Components:
- Base Unit: Contains the heating element and stirring mechanism.
- Non-stick Cooking Surface: For popping kernels with minimal oil.
- Stirring Bar: Ensures even popping of all kernels.
- Clear Dome/Serving Bowl: Allows you to watch popcorn pop and doubles as a serving dish.
- Lid with Butter Melting Tray: Melts butter directly onto the popcorn as it pops and serves as a storage lid.
- Measuring Cup: For precise measurement of kernels.
A detailed view of the non-stick cooking surface with popcorn kernels and the integrated stirring bar, designed to ensure even popping.
Setup
- Unpack: Carefully remove all components from the packaging.
- Clean: Before first use, wash the clear dome/serving bowl, lid, and stirring bar in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry. Wipe the base unit with a damp cloth. Do not immerse the base unit in water.
- Assemble: Ensure the stirring bar is securely attached to the center of the non-stick cooking surface on the base unit.
Operating Instructions
Follow these steps to make delicious popcorn:
- Add Oil: Pour your desired amount of cooking oil (e.g., vegetable, canola, coconut) onto the non-stick cooking surface.
- Add Kernels: Use the included measuring cup to add popcorn kernels to the cooking surface. The popcorn maker can produce up to 24 cups of popped popcorn.
A hand is shown pouring unpopped popcorn kernels from a measuring cup into the heating plate of the popcorn maker.
An image highlighting the capacity of the popcorn maker, showing it can produce up to 24 cups of popcorn, with approximate dimensions of 13 inches high and 11 inches wide.
- Place Dome: Carefully place the clear dome/serving bowl onto the base unit, ensuring it is seated properly.
- Add Butter (Optional): Place butter cubes into the butter melting tray located on top of the clear dome. The heat from the popping corn will melt the butter, allowing it to drizzle onto the popcorn.
A close-up of butter cubes placed in the designated melting tray on top of the popcorn maker's clear lid, showing the melting process.
- Start Popping: Plug the popcorn maker into a standard electrical outlet and press the Power Button. The stirring bar will begin to rotate, and the heating element will activate.
- Monitor: Allow the popcorn to pop until the popping sound slows significantly (typically 3-5 minutes).
- Serve: Once popping is complete, turn off and unplug the unit. Carefully place the storage lid onto the clear dome/serving bowl. Using oven mitts, grasp the handles of the base and the serving bowl, then flip the entire unit over. Detach the base unit from the serving bowl. Your fresh popcorn is now ready to enjoy!
The popcorn maker's clear bowl, filled with popcorn, is shown detached from the base, demonstrating its dual function as a serving dish.
Convenient Storage:
The SmartStore™ design allows the base unit to nest inside the serving bowl, and the lid provides closure for quick, clean, and easy storage, taking up less cabinet space.
A hand placing the storage lid on the popcorn bowl, illustrating the SmartStore™ nesting design where the base fits inside the bowl for space-saving storage.
Maintenance & Cleaning
Proper cleaning and maintenance will ensure the longevity of your popcorn maker.
- Unplug and Cool: Always unplug the appliance from the power outlet and allow it to cool completely before cleaning.
- Clean Non-stick Surface: The non-stick cooking surface can be wiped clean with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as this can damage the non-stick coating.
- Wash Bowl and Lid: The clear dome/serving bowl, lid, and stirring bar are dishwasher safe or can be washed by hand with warm, soapy water.
- Clean Base Unit: Wipe the exterior of the base unit with a soft, damp cloth. Never immerse the base unit in water or any other liquid.
- Storage: Once clean and dry, store the popcorn maker by nesting the base unit inside the serving bowl and securing it with the lid.
An image emphasizing the non-stick cooking surface of the popcorn maker, highlighting its ease of cleaning after use.
Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your popcorn maker, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Popcorn not popping or few kernels pop. | Not enough oil; old or dry kernels; insufficient heat. | Ensure correct amount of fresh oil and kernels. Check power connection. |
| Popcorn is burning. | Too much oil; too many kernels; left on too long. | Use recommended oil and kernel amounts. Turn off immediately after popping slows. |
| Stirring bar not rotating. | Stirring bar not properly installed; obstruction. | Ensure stirring bar is securely in place and free of debris. |
| Popcorn is not crispy. | Excess moisture. | Ensure all components are dry before use. The steam vent helps with crispiness. |
Specifications
- Brand: DASH
- Model Number: DSSP355GBAQ02
- Capacity: 24 Cups (popped)
- Color: Aqua
- Material: Plastic
- Product Dimensions: 13.3"L x 11.3"W x 11.2"H
- Item Weight: 5.63 pounds
- Power Rating: 850 W
- Voltage: 120 V / 60 Hz
- UPC: 810051852431
Warranty & Support
DASH is committed to providing high-quality products and excellent customer service. Your DASH SmartStore™ Deluxe Stirring Popcorn Maker comes with a manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the included warranty card for specific terms and conditions.
For additional support, including home-tested recipes and assistance with your product, please contact our customer support team based right here in the USA.
You can also find more information and a digital version of the user guide here: DASH SmartStore™ Deluxe Stirring Popcorn Maker User Guide (PDF)
The included recipe guide and instruction manual, suggesting various flavor inspirations for popcorn.
