The Ultimate Guide to Best Small Kitchen Appliances in 2023

In the ever-evolving world of culinary innovation, kitchen appliances have become indispensable tools for both amateur and seasoned chefs alike. But what happens when you find yourself working with a kitchen that’s more “cozy” than “spacious”? Fear not, fellow culinary enthusiasts! Even with limited countertop real estate, you can still create culinary masterpieces with the right arsenal of small kitchen appliances.

The year 2023 has witnessed a surge in the demand for compact and efficient kitchen gadgets, and we’re here to navigate through this exciting landscape, showcasing the best small kitchen appliances that will revolutionize your cooking experience. From countertop ovens that rival their larger counterparts to blenders that can whip up smoothies in a flash, our curated list will empower you to unlock new culinary possibilities, regardless of the size of your kitchen.

Our guide will delve into the key considerations when choosing small kitchen appliances, explore the latest trends, and highlight the top-rated models in each category. So, whether you’re a budding chef tackling your first apartment or a seasoned cook looking to streamline your culinary process, join us on this journey into the world of small but mighty kitchen appliances.

Countertop Ovens: Unleashing Baking Power in a Compact Form

Countertop ovens have become a game-changer for apartment dwellers and anyone seeking to save space without sacrificing baking capabilities. These versatile appliances offer a surprising array of functions, from toasting and broiling to baking and roasting, all within a footprint that fits comfortably on your kitchen counter.

One of the major advantages of countertop ovens is their ability to preheat quickly, often taking less than half the time compared to traditional ovens. This time-saving feature is a boon for busy individuals who want to whip up a quick snack or meal without waiting around for the oven to reach the desired temperature.

Top Countertop Oven Picks for 2023

Here are some of the top-rated countertop ovens that have impressed us with their performance and features:

1. Breville BOV800XL Smart Oven Pro

The Breville BOV800XL Smart Oven Pro is a true powerhouse in the countertop oven category. It boasts 10 different cooking functions, including air fry, bake, broil, toast, pizza, reheat, and more. Its impressive 1800-watt heating element ensures even cooking and browning, while the intuitive digital controls make it a breeze to operate.

2. Cuisinart TOA-60 Convection Toaster Oven

For a more budget-friendly option that delivers excellent results, consider the Cuisinart TOA-60 Convection Toaster Oven. This compact oven provides 0.6 cubic feet of cooking space, making it perfect for smaller kitchens or those who primarily bake for one or two people. Its convection technology ensures even heat distribution, resulting in crispy pastries and perfectly roasted vegetables.

3. Ninja Foodi XL 10-in-1 Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven

If you’re looking for a countertop oven that can do it all, the Ninja Foodi XL 10-in-1 Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven is worth considering. As the name suggests, it boasts 10 different cooking functions, including air fry, bake, roast, broil, reheat, dehydrate, and more. Its spacious capacity makes it ideal for larger families or those who frequently entertain.

Blenders: Mastering Smoothies, Soups, and More

Blenders have become an essential part of modern kitchens, offering a convenient way to create smoothies, soups, sauces, and even ice cream. While traditional blenders can be bulky, the rise of compact blenders has made it possible to enjoy their benefits without sacrificing precious countertop space.

When selecting a small blender, consider the following factors:

• Power: A higher wattage generally indicates a more powerful blender, capable of crushing ice and blending tough ingredients.
• Jar Size: Choose a jar that suits your needs. Smaller jars are ideal for individual smoothies, while larger jars are better for making smoothies for the whole family.
• Noise Level: Blenders can be noisy, so consider a model with lower noise levels if it’s a concern.

Top Small Blender Picks for 2023

Here are some of the top-rated small blenders that deliver both convenience and performance:

1. Ninja Personal Blender with Auto-iQ

The Ninja Personal Blender with Auto-iQ is a compact and versatile appliance that excels in both smoothie and meal prep applications. Its Auto-iQ technology offers pre-programmed settings for different tasks, making it easy to create perfectly blended smoothies, sauces, and even dips. Its single-serve size is perfect for individual portions.

2. NutriBullet Pro 900 Series

The NutriBullet Pro 900 Series is a popular choice among smoothie enthusiasts. It’s known for its powerful motor that can pulverize even the toughest ingredients, including frozen fruit and leafy greens. Its compact size and sleek design make it a welcome addition to any kitchen countertop.

3. Vitamix Personal Blender

For those seeking a premium small blender, the Vitamix Personal Blender is a strong contender. This powerful blender boasts Vitamix’s signature blending technology, resulting in smooth and consistent results. Its sleek design and easy-to-clean features make it a popular choice for both beginners and seasoned chefs.

Food Processors: Chopping, Slicing, and Shredding with Ease

Food processors are a time-saving essential for anyone who loves to cook. These versatile appliances can handle a wide range of tasks, from chopping vegetables and slicing fruits to making dough and grinding nuts. While full-sized food processors can be quite bulky, compact models offer the perfect solution for smaller kitchens.

Top Small Food Processor Picks for 2023

Here are some of the top-rated small food processors that deliver big results in a compact package:

1. Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus Food Processor

The Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus Food Processor is a true workhorse in the compact food processor category. It features a powerful motor that can handle a wide variety of tasks, from chopping vegetables and slicing fruits to making hummus and nut butters. Its compact size makes it perfect for smaller kitchens or those who primarily cook for one or two people.

2. Hamilton Beach Food Processor

For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Hamilton Beach Food Processor. This compact model offers a surprisingly wide range of functions, including chopping, slicing, shredding, and kneading. Its easy-to-use design and dishwasher-safe parts make it an excellent choice for busy cooks.

3. Ninja Mega Kitchen System with Auto-iQ

If you’re looking for a small food processor that can also handle other tasks, the Ninja Mega Kitchen System with Auto-iQ is an excellent choice. This versatile appliance combines the functions of a food processor, blender, and personal blender in a single unit. Its Auto-iQ technology offers pre-programmed settings for different tasks, making it easy to create a variety of culinary creations.

Coffee Makers: Brewing a Perfect Cup Every Time

For coffee lovers, a great coffee maker is an indispensable companion. But not all coffee makers are created equal. Compact coffee makers have emerged as a popular option for smaller kitchens and those who prefer a more minimalist approach to brewing.

When choosing a small coffee maker, consider the following factors:

• Brewing Method: Choose a method that aligns with your coffee preferences. Drip coffee makers are the most common and offer a simple and straightforward brewing experience. Single-serve coffee makers are ideal for those who only brew one cup at a time. French presses and pour-over methods offer a more hands-on experience and can produce a more robust flavor.
• Carafe Size: Select a carafe size that matches your needs. Smaller carafes are ideal for single-serve portions, while larger carafes are better for multiple cups.
• Features: Consider features like programmability, auto-shutoff, and keep-warm functions that can enhance your coffee brewing experience.

Top Small Coffee Maker Picks for 2023

Here are some of the top-rated small coffee makers that offer a delightful brewing experience:

1. Keurig K-Mini Plus Single-Serve Coffee Maker

The Keurig K-Mini Plus Single-Serve Coffee Maker is a popular choice for those who want a simple and convenient way to brew a single cup of coffee. It offers a variety of brewing sizes, from a single “K-cup” to a travel mug. Its compact size makes it perfect for small kitchens or dorm rooms.

2. Black + Decker Coffee Maker

For a more traditional