With a vintage 70s look, the West Bend 82306 Stir Crazy 6-quart Popcorn Popper is a fun popper that  produces great tasting popcorn. Since you can control the amount of popcorn, oil and seasoning in this popper, it’s a great healthy alternative to microwave popcorn. Like the Whirley Pop Popcorn Popper, the Stir Crazy popper stirs the popcorn kernels during the popping process, which greatly limits the amount of old maids (unpopped kernels). Unlike the Whirley Pop, you don’t have to stand over the stove manually cranking the stirring rod.

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How the Stir Crazy Popcorn Popper Works

Operating the Stir Crazy popper is pretty easy and the popping process takes just as long as it does with a microwave popcorn bag. First, add the amount of oil and corn you desire (the Stir Crazy can produce up to 6 quarts of popcorn). Place clear bubble cover back on the unit. Plug the cord into the base and then into the outlet. At this point, the stirring arm will start to rotate. You can now watch the magic of popcorn popping. Once popping is completed, just flip the popper over and use the bubble cover as a popcorn bowl. Keep in mind that, as with any popcorn popping process, a lot of steam gets created, so be careful lifting up the base.

Watch the West Bend Stir Crazy Popcorn Popper in Action

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Adding Butter During the Popping Process: Does it work?

The Stir Crazy popper top has holes that allow butter to melt through during the popping process. It’s actually a pretty simple set up. However, sometimes the butter does not completely melt. You can simply push the butter through the holes with a pastry brush. Or, you can melt butter in the microwave for 20 seconds and pour over the popcorn after popping.

Cleaning the Stir Crazy Popcorn Popper

West Bend recommends cleaning the Stir Crazy Popcorn Popper after each use. The bubble cover can be washed with a dishcloth or sponge. Since it's a plastic cover, don't use anything abrasive. The stirring rod can be removed easily for cleaning by unscrewing a center knob. The popper base can be cleaned with a damp dishcloth or sponge. Additionally, a nylon-scouring pad can be used. West Bend reports that discoloration of the finish can occur with consistent use. If this occurs, simply saturate a soft cloth with lemon juice or vinegar and rub the finish. 

Overall Impressions of the West Bend 82306 Stir Crazy 6-quart Popcorn Popper

Basically, this is a simple to use popcorn popper that can produce tasty popcorn. We feel the stirring arm helps to produce more popped kernels and helps to spread the oil around thoroughly during the cooking process. That’s one of the reasons we love the Whirly Pop. Of course, the benefit of the Stir Crazy popper is that you don’t have to constantly supervise the popping.

Storage can be an issue with the Stir Crazy popcorn popper. Its unique bubble design can play havoc in pantries and under cabinets. At the same time, we love the retro 70s look. So, we make room for this popper where we can.

Overall, there’s a lot to recommend. It looks pretty cool. It pops most if not all of the popcorn. And it’s fun to watch the popcorn fly about as they pop. Just watch these kids’ reactions.

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Do you own a West Bend Stir Crazy Popcorn Popper? If so, let us know how like it.

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