The Cute $22 Popcorn Maker That Gives the Movie Theater Version a Run for Its Money (It’s Perfect for My Tiny Kitchen!)

My entire life, I’ve always bought bagged microwave popcorn because I thought that making it in anything but a microwave was way above my expertise level. That is — until Priyanka Chopra-Jonas herself (yes, keep reading) sent me Dash’s ridiculously cute and compact popcorn maker to celebrate the launch of her new collab with Rob’s Backstage Popcorn (which is beyond delicious, BTW). While I’m not a former movie theater concessions stand worker like another editor at Apartment Therapy, I do know that this popcorn maker is the secret to equally irresistible popcorn at home.

I was gifted this adorable aqua popcorn maker from Rob’s Backstage Popcorn to recreate their newest Priyanka’s Mumbai Nights flavor at home. And, since I first turned it on, I knew I’d (almost) never buy the premade stuff again. Seriously: It’s so easy to use, I could do it with my eyes closed — though I certainly don’t recommend that for obvious safety reasons. I can’t say I’m surprised that I’m so impressed as Dash is an editor-loved brand.

Without further ado, here’s how to get movie theater-level popcorn. Simply fill the measuring cup (which doubles as a nifty butter-melting tray) attached at the top with kernels, drop ’em in the high-capacity heating chamber in the middle, push the one-touch start button, and you’ll have movie theater-worthy popcorn in minutes. It makes up to 16 cups at a time, so it’s great for larger groups as well.

Best of all, this gadget uses hot air instead of oil to make popcorn, so it’s a lot healthier than many other kinds of popcorn. It’s hard to know what’s exactly in the bagged stuff at the store, so I love that I can control what’s going into my movie snack. I will say that I’m a sucker for popcorn seasonings, so I’ve been experimenting with a few kinds — obviously Priyanka’s Mumbai Nights seasoning and the ranch seasoning from Trader Joe’s. Next on my list? A sweet version mixed with some pretzels and chocolate!

Functionality-wise, it checks all the boxes, too. It’s no secret I have zero room to spare in my tiny NYC studio kitchen, so its compact size is perfect for small spaces. Between its dashing-good looks (sorry, couldn’t resist!), slim design, and price point, this small but mighty kitchen gadget has quickly become one of my favorite things in my kitchen. Oh, did I mention it’s on sale for just $20?! Just like the popcorn, you better get it while it’s fresh and hot.

Buy: DASH Hot Air Popcorn Popper Maker, $21.99 (normally $24.99)

This post originally appeared on Kitchn. See it here: The Adorable $20 Popcorn Maker That Gives the Movie Theater Version a Run for Its Money (It’s Perfect for My Tiny Kitchen!)