7 Foods the Rest of America Can Thank Minnesota For (2024)

The land of 10,000 lakes (and some pretty delicious eats) deserves a big thank you for some of its stellar food inventions.

1. Pizza Rolls

Okay seriously, if this one reason isn’t enough to bow down to Minnesota, I don’t know what is. In 1951, the Totino’s family brought this slumber party snack turned college food staple to life right in the heart of Minneapolis, Minnesota. I believe it is safe to say that childhood (and college) truly would not be the same without these. Don’t want to buy? DIY.

2. Toast

Sorry, but no Minnesota did not actually invent toasted bread. BUT, the very first pop-up toaster was invented in Minnesota way back in 1926. So, next time you bite into that perfect, gooey (maybe even homemade) Pop-Tart, send a little love to all your friends in Minnesota.

3. Corndogs

If you have not made it to the Minnesota State Fair yet, it’s time to go. A Minnesota native myself, I can attest that there is truly no other place like it (and definitely no shortage of interesting food). Way back in 1940, a Fair vendor by the name of Jack Karnis introduced the first corndog and I think we can all agree that he deserves a BIG thank you.

4. SPAM

Short for “Spiced Ham,” Hormel (based in Austin, MN) first launched this pork-ham meat hybrid in 1937. Though I can’t decide if this product makes me proud to be a Minnesotan (the SPAM Museum might be a little over the top), some people can’t get enough of it. If you have never tried the infamous SPAM, it might be time to give it a whirl.

5. Apples

Behold the state fruit of Minnesota. We have students at the University of Minnesota to thank for developing the very first Honeycrisp (as well as the Haralson and Snowsweet, just to name a few) apples.

6. Bundt Cake

I mean it’s basically a giant donut, what’s not to love? Minnesota native H. David Dalquist revolutionized baking with the introduction of his Bundt pan and the world (more like the Midwest) will never be the same. If you have never tried one, make your own or, if baking isn’t within your expertise, try ordering one (or 10) of these homemade cakesbased in MN.

7. Milky Way Bars

Minnesota, you have truly outdone yourself. Temporary home to Mars candy back in the 1920s, Minnesota gets credit for not only the Milky Way, but also the Snickers and the Three Musketeers bars. Franklin and Ethel Mars moved their chocolate factory from Tacoma, Washington to Minneapolis, Minnesota just in time for the debut of the chocolatey, caramel-filled Milky Way. So, cheers to you, Franklin, cheers to you.