Additional Coverage:
- I’ve eaten most of Trader Joe’s fall foods. Here are the 10 you actually need to try, from frozen meals to easy breakfasts. (businessinsider.com)
As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets that crisp, autumn bite, one thing is certain: Trader Joe’s has once again rolled out its beloved lineup of fall-themed goodies. Our local news team — or, more accurately, our resident fall-foodie correspondent — has been hard at work (and play!)
sampling the seasonal selections. After years of delicious dedication, we’re ready to unveil the cream of the crop, the absolute must-haves that deserve a permanent spot in your autumn pantry.
So, grab your coziest sweater, because we’re diving into Trader Joe’s Fall ‘Haul’ of Fame!
Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese: A Frozen Masterpiece
Forget those bland frozen dinners! Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese is a gourmet experience disguised as a convenience meal.
This isn’t just mac and cheese; it’s a velvety dream of rich butternut squash sauce, infused with aromatic sage and a perfect trifecta of Gouda, cheddar, and Parmesan. The rigatoni cooks up perfectly al dente, holding onto that thick, creamy sauce like a delicious secret.
It’s so good, you’ll be tempted to claim you made it from scratch – we won’t tell!
Pumpkin and Ginger Hold the Cone Treats: Your Dream Fall Dessert
Move over, basic desserts! The Pumpkin and Ginger Hold the Cone treats are an absolute autumnal revelation.
Imagine creamy pumpkin ice cream meeting the zesty warmth of ginger in a delightful miniature cone. It’s a symphony of spicy and sweet that’s bold in flavor yet surprisingly delicate, making it the ideal bite-sized indulgence after dinner.
Trust us, these little cones are a major upgrade from your usual grocery store ice cream.
Pumpkin Cranberry Crisps: The Ultimate Cheese Board Upgrade
Elevate your next cheese board with Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Cranberry Crisps. These aren’t your average crackers; they’re a delightful blend of pumpkin spice and tart cranberry, adding a touch of fancy to any spread.
Sweet enough to be a treat, yet savory enough for your favorite dips, their sturdy texture holds up beautifully. We love them with a sweet chèvre or, yes, even pumpkin hummus – but they’re equally delicious all on their own!
Pumpkin Spice Hummus: Surprisingly Delicious
Who knew hummus could be this exciting? Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Hummus might sound unconventional, but it’s a surprisingly delightful dip that perfectly captures the essence of pumpkin pie without any artificial taste.
The rich squash flavor shines through, complemented by warm nutmeg and cinnamon, all rounded out with a pleasant nuttiness. It’s thicker than typical hummus but surprisingly whipped and light – so light, in fact, you might find yourself reaching for a spoon!
Try it with the pumpkin-cranberry crisps or a simple graham cracker for a sweet, seasonal treat.
Pepita Salsa: Our Flavorful Kryptonite
Prepare for your new favorite chip companion: Trader Joe’s Pepita Salsa. This chunky, flavor-packed salsa is a true autumn superstar, boasting an irresistible mix of smoky chipotle, sweet bell pepper, and savory garlic.
It’s got just enough mellow heat to keep spice lovers happy without causing a meltdown. The finely ground pepitas (pumpkin seeds) add a lovely texture and a protein boost, ensuring this salsa is never watery.
Fantastic with fall chips or as a zesty addition to your morning eggs!
Frozen Pumpkin Waffles: Subtlety Done Right
Sometimes, you crave pumpkin without the full-on spice assault. Enter Trader Joe’s Frozen Pumpkin Waffles!
These breakfast heroes deliver a subtle, mellow hint of pumpkin spice – think a gentle whisper, not a shout. They strike the perfect balance, offering just enough autumnal flavor to be special without overwhelming your taste buds.
With crunchy edges, a chewy center, and a fluffier interior than many other frozen options, they’re perfect with a pat of butter or dressed up with maple syrup or a cinnamon spread.
Harvest Chili: A Satisfying Vegetarian Comfort
For a hearty, comforting meal that screams fall, look no further than Trader Joe’s Harvest Chili. This vegetarian wonder puts a delicious autumn spin on a classic, blending sweet potato, butternut squash, and pumpkin puree with a black bean and spicy base.
Every spoonful is a symphony of smoky, spicy, savory, and subtly sweet notes. Packed with flavor (and hidden veggies like cauliflower!), it’s incredibly satisfying and ready in under ten minutes.
It’s quickly become a Meatless Monday staple around here!
Pumpkin Rolls: Hello, “Desserts for Breakfast Season”!
Welcome to “desserts for breakfast season”! As soon as the temperatures dip, our thoughts turn to cozy morning treats, and Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Rolls are at the top of our list.
These ready-to-bake delights are a delightful cross between a bakery-style cinnamon bun and your favorite pumpkin bread. Incredibly soft, with a gentle hint of nutmeg and fall spices, each roll hides a sticky, cinnamon-infused core – a true treasure!
And don’t even get us started on the cinnamon and nutmeg-tinged icing; it’s so good, you’ll want to lick the plate clean. Stock your freezer now!
Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Slims: The Perfect Fall Snack
Hold the phone – Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Slims are back, and we couldn’t be more thrilled! These crispy, thin pretzels are coated in a sugary-sweet yogurt topping, subtly infused with pumpkin spices, and sprinkled with crunchy, spiced pepitas.
The irresistible blend of sweet and salty, combined with that satisfying crispy-crunchy texture, makes them an utterly unique and addictive snack. Seriously, these are a must-have mainstay for your fall snacking rotation.
Pumpkin Bread Mix: Effortless Autumnal Baking
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just dipping your toes into the kitchen, Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Bread Mix is a seasonal savior. Unlike other mixes, this one consistently delivers a wonderfully moist loaf in less than an hour.
The flavor is incredible, easily rivaling your favorite coffee shop’s offering. Nutmeg and clove lead the charge, beautifully complemented by cinnamon and real pumpkin, with a hint of brown sugar or molasses adding depth.
Best of all, it’s not overly sweet, making it the perfect companion for your morning coffee throughout the fall and early winter months.
So there you have it – our definitive guide to Trader Joe’s fall essentials. Whether you’re craving sweet, savory, or something in between, these seasonal stars are sure to bring a taste of autumn magic to your home. Happy fall, and happy shopping!