The Most Popular Kitchen Appliance in Every State, According to Google Data

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Whether you can't go a week without using your air fryer to whip up an easy dinner that everyone in your family will love, or simply can't imagine starting a day sans your beloved espresso machine, everyone has their favorite kitchen appliance. Recently, the folks over at Surety First—a California-based insurance agency—analyzed Google Trends data from the last year to evaluate the relative popularity of kitchen gadgets by finding the most-searched-for item within each individual state. The data shows Americans love everything from peelers to hot dog toasters (the top pick in Missouri!) and revealed some insightful information about the culinary preferences of people across the country.

For example, residents of Alabama and Kentucky, both southern states, picked the deep fryer as their favorite kitchen gadget, which isn't exactly a surprise when you consider that area's love of fried food. Similarly, it's no shock that coffee-crazed Washingtonians favor their espresso machines, while Texans—a bunch known for their love of barbecue—can't live without a meat tenderizer.

Surety First

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However, not all of the most popular kitchen gadgets in each state have an obvious tie to that state's culinary history. In Alaska, for example, where the average winter temperature ranges from 0 to -30 degrees, the most popular kitchen gadget is an ice cream maker. Over in North Dakota, residents are inexplicably preoccupied with their popcorn makers.

Not surprisingly, the most popular appliances in the nation—aka those that took the top spot in the most states—are all about convenience. Yes, we're talking about your Crockpots, toaster ovens, and more. Scroll down to learn more about some of the most popular kitchen gadgets across the country, including how to use each of them to whip up something really tasty.

Crockpot

Given that this appliance—a branded slow cooker—can make everything from pulled-pork tacos to cheesecake, it's no surprise that it was the most popular kitchen gadget in three states—South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Two additional states, Idaho and Tennessee, bestowed top honors to the Instant Pot and multi-cooker, respectively. Both appliances are very similar to a slow cooker, like the Crockpot. Ready to put your own slow cooker to good use? Check out these slow cooker recipes you can make with just two ingredients.

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Air fryer

While not as versatile as a slow cooker, an air fryer is a great investment if you love making dishes like ricotta meatballs and baked chicken tenders. That's probably why this countertop appliance was the most popular kitchen gadget in Indiana and Kansas. If you're new to the air fryer game, or are considering getting one, take a peek at our beginner's guide, which includes everything you need to know about the popular appliance.

Deep fryer

Residents in Alabama and Kentucky can't get enough of their deep fryers. Though similar to an air fryer, deep fryers cook food in hot oil, while air fryers use only about a tablespoon of oil (or less), and cook the food using rapidly circulating hot air. As you may have guessed, a deep fryer comes in handy when you're whipping up any fried food, such as French fries and apple and cheddar fritters.

French press

The coffee snobs in Colorado and Oregon love a French press, and we totally get it. The compact appliance offers direct infusion for full-bodied coffee, and is especially handy for coffee drinkers who prefer dark roasts. If you're ready to channel your inner barista, check out our step-by-step guide to making a perfect pot of French press coffee at home.

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Ice cube tray

For New Yorkers and Oklahomians, a standard ice cube tray is a kitchen must-have. Sure, it's not as flashy as some of the other gadgets on this list, but let's not underestimate the importance of cubes of frozen water. After all, ice is often a crucial smoothie ingredient, and, of course, a critical component of many refreshing cocktails and other beverages.