I have a confession to make. Even though Trader Joe’s offers competitive prices on groceries, shopping there isn’t always so good for my budget — especially during the fall. That’s because come September, the shelves at Trader Joe’s are loaded with pumpkin-flavored items that I can’t seem to get enough of.
This week, I made my annual fall pilgrimage to Trader Joe’s and was incredibly impressed with its 2024 fall lineup. Here are a few of the top items I scooped up that you may want to try.
1. Maple Spiced Nut Mix
Surprisingly, the first item I grabbed this week at Trader Joe’s wasn’t pumpkin flavored. It was actually a container of mixed nuts with a maple rosemary glaze.
I like snacking on nuts for energy during the day. And while I usually buy them in bulk at Costco, I was curious to give this mix a try.
I’m glad I did, because while you’d think the maple flavor would be overpoweringly sweet, I didn’t find that to be the case. If you enjoy snacking on nuts and are a fan of maple, you can pick up an 8.5-ounce can for $5.99.
2. Pumpkin Joe-Joe’s Cookies
Sometimes, when you buy pumpkin-flavored goodies, the sweetness factor can be overwhelming. And while I enjoy the taste of pumpkin, I don’t like being smacked in the taste buds by it.
What I love about Pumpkin Joe-Joe’s Cookies is that they fit the bill in this regard. You get a nice dose of pumpkin, but it’s not too much. And at a price of $2.99 for a 10.5-ounce box, you can get your fill of cookies without breaking the bank.
3. Pumpkin Brioche Twist
Most days, my breakfast consists of a boring bowl of cereal. So it’s fun to mix things up and indulge a little with my morning coffee.
This Pumpkin Brioche Twist is perfect fall comfort food. It’s buttery, somewhat cakey, and loaded with fall spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
You can eat it at room temperature, but I enjoy it warmed up with a tiny coating of butter. If you’re a fan of pumpkin French toast, it’s the perfect base. A 16.8-loaf will cost you $4.99.
4. Pumpkin Recipe Dog Treats
Most people who know me would say I’m a bit obsessed with my dogs. So when I saw that Trader Joe’s had pumpkin dog treats on its shelves, I couldn’t resist.
My vet says that pumpkin can be good for a dog’s digestion. And that’s why I didn’t hesitate to grab a 16-ounce box of these treats for $4.29.
I figured if I was going to be bringing home a haul of pumpkin products, it was only fair to include the pups. And while I can’t comment on their taste since, well, I didn’t eat them, suffice it to say that my dogs were very happy customers.
5. Apple Cider Donuts
Fall isn’t only about pumpkin. It’s a great time for all things apple, too. And if you like apple cider donuts, I suggest you pick up a box from Trader Joe’s.
These bad boys are perfect for breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or an evening reading session on the couch with a mug of tea. A 15.9-ounce box will cost you $4.49, which is probably cheaper than buying fresh ones at a local fall festival.
But rest assured that these are baked fresh, too. And if you want that “straight out of the fryer” feeling, here’s a pro tip: Stick them in the microwave for 20 seconds. You won’t be sorry.
These Trader Joe’s products all scream fall. But unfortunately, they won’t be available forever. In fact, I’d be surprised to find these items in stock beyond mid- to late October. And some might sell out for good well ahead of that time frame. So if they sound amazing to you, head on over to Trader Joe’s as soon as you can.
