My Favorite Trader Joe's Products

Not sponsored

Is is peak capitalism to have a favorite grocery store? Probably. But let me tell you about my love — nay — passion for Trader Joe’s.

First opened in Pasadena, California in the 1960s, Trader Joe’s has amassed a near cult-like following in recent years. They specifically cater to the “over educated and underpaid” (source), so it’s no wonder I was so drawn in. I was charmed by their niche products and nautical theme, what can I say?

You can of course buy apples and yogurt at Trader Joes’, but you can also find unique items like cauliflower gnocchi, everything but the elote seasoning, and caramel apple mochi. And people LOVE their seasonal products. In the spring time, I run to TJ’s to stock up on Brazil nut body butter, and in the fall I’m there for all things apple and pumpkin. I’m so loyal to Trader Joe’s, that I do the majority of my grocery shopping there and supplement with whichever traditional grocery store is closest to the Trader Joe’s location I went to.

Do not sleep on Trader Joe’s flower section!

I still remember my first trip to Trader Joe’s on a visit with my grandpa and step-grandma when I was in high school. For years I thought it was a health food store because they are extremely health conscious. I didn’t go back for a few years, but when I finally did with my college bf, I was a changed woman. Bring on the butternut squash mac and cheese.

I’ve tried so many TJ’s products at this point that friends often text me to ask my opinions (I’m honored tbh), but honestly, it can be overwhelming if you’re not familiar with their whole thing. So, whether you’ve never been to Trader Joe’s (illegal) or you’re just looking for new products to try, here’s a list of some of my favorites. I tried not to include a ton of popular products like the frozen dumplings or the hash browns (but pls try if you haven’t), so hopefully you’ll find something new to try in this list even if you’re a seasoned TJ’s shopper. And, of course, let me know your favorite products in the comments so I can find new products too!

Desserts

I know desserts are supposed to come at the end, but they’re my favorite thing so I’m starting with them. Fight me.

1. Root beer float bars - I never hear anyone talk about these, and they’re SO good. It’s a root beer float on a stick, what’s not to like?

   

2. Gluten free yellow mini sheet cake - I’m not gluten free, but if I was, I’d be grateful this existed because I promise you cannot tell that there’s no gluten. I know usually when people say that it’s like when they tell you “you look sooo much like my cousin!” and then they show you their cousin and you have to re-evaluate your self perception, but I’m telling you this cake is not like that!

   

3. Chocolate Brooklyn babka - While we’re in the bakery aisle, go ahead and grab the babka too. This was one of the first products I fell in love with, and I used to get it every single time I went. Now it’s more of an occasional treat, but it still hits every time.

   

4. Soft strawberry licorice twists - The most perfect texture. I’m obsessed.

   

Snacks

1. Mini mochi rice nuggets - these get stuck in your teeth like crazy but they’re so salty and addictive that you won’t mind. I love to put these on salads like croutons!

   

2. Dark chocolate rice cakes - These are kind of a sleeper hit. I forget about them, but when I remember how good these are with a smear of peanut butter, I will not be stopped from eating them every day for weeks.

   

3. PB&J bar - Another one I never hear people talking about! Which, upon further review, might be because they’re for kids, but I loveeee these so much.

   

Basics

1. Demi baguettes - these are good for garlic bread, sandwiches, bruschetta, etc. And I love that they’re the perfect size for shopping for one.

   

2. Peanut butter protein granola - This does not taste like a high-protein product, I swear. It just tastes like peanut butter and joy.

   

3. 10-Minute farro - I’ve been trying to make farro the next trendy grain for years. It’s not working, but this tastes way better than brown rice, cooks faster, and contains more protein and fiber. Try it!

   

4. Organic rolled oats with ancient grains and seeds - The name is too long, but it makes the absolute best oatmeal. And it’s gluten free if you’re into that kind of thing.

   

5. Salmon rub - I guess this isn’t a “basic” but I do keep it on hand at all times. So far I’ve only used this on salmon, but I’m sure you could use it on other things. It’s the perfect blend of smoky and sweet and spicy.

   

Dairy/Dips

1. Feta spread - this is a newer product, but I hope it sticks around. I love this on a grain bowl or as a dip.

   

2. Toscano cheese - Someone had this at a dinner party I attended, and I’ve been obsessed with it ever since. It’s so satisfyingly sharp, a quality I really appreciate in a cheese.

   

3. Garlic spread dip - This is just toum (Lebanese garlic sauce) with a TJ’s label on it, but it’s INCREDIBLE. I love this as a mayo replacement on sandwiches and to dip mini naan in.

   

Frozen

1. Scallion pancakes - Don’t look at the calorie count if that’s something that’s concerning to you. You’ll enjoy them more if you don’t tbh.

   

2. Dutch griddle cakes - I tried these on a suggestion from a friend (hi Katelyn) who was spreading the good word, and now I am here to evangelize about the best frozen breakfast product money can buy. If you try one thing from this list, let it be these.

   

3. Tandoor garlic naan - It’s bread with garlic, you’ll like it!

   

Seasonal

1. Pumpkin brioche - I wait for this all year long. The regular brioche is good, but the pumpkin with the cinnamon swirl is ELITE.

   

2. Honeycrisp apple cinnamon yogurt - Yogurt feels like a weird thing to plug, but here we are. Stock up if you see it in the fall because once it’s gone, it’s gone!

   

3. Maple butter - I realize all the seasonal products are fall-themed so far, but it’s the best season for a reason. I have three of these in my pantry right now because I’m afraid they won’t bring it back.

   

4. Mini peppermint meringues - I think I just like the texture of these. Weird because I hate eggs and that’s essentially what meringues are, but the heart wants what it wants. Anyway, I only ever get the peppermint, so someone tell me if the vanilla ones they have year round are comparable.

   

5. Brazil nut body butter - I mentioned this above, but it deserved a spot on the list too. TJ’s has a lot of good skincare and body products, but the seasonal (spring) Brazil nut body butter is something special.

   

Further Reading:

If you’d like to learn more about the history of this ? grocery store, I recommend this Sounds Like a Cult podcast episode and the book The Secret Life of Groceries by Benjamin Lorr.

Life Updates:

1. I signed up for an intermediate ceramics class, which starts next month and I’m beyond excited to get back to making little trinkets out of clay.

2. My bf’s parents are here this weekend and helping out with house things (read: his dad is doing most of the work while Cody hands him tools and his mom and I go get coffee). I’m so so grateful to have a bathroom door that latches AND working laundry machines.

3. I went blonder for the summer. I can’t wait to make being a blonde again my entire personality.

4. I just completed week 2 of my couch to 5k training. I don’t have an actual 5k to work toward yet, but I’m keeping an eye out for local ones. So far, I’m just enjoying running around my neighborhood.

5. I posted a new YouTube video about the moving process and it has two whole likes, so give it a watch/like if you’re feeling generous!