Trader Joe’s knows how to appeal to the pumpkin spice crowd. They unveil a new pumpkin spice collection every fall and it seems to get better and better each year. And while we may be moving towards winter, this flavor tastes like the holidays to a lot of people.
In Forrest Gump, do you remember that one scene where Bubba (a.k.a., the shrimp guy) blabs on and on about the things you can do with shrimp?
Well every year, Trader Joe’s takes popular grocery staples and they “pumpkinfy” them. When I say that they go all out, they go ALL out. The variety of pumpkin items that they make are ridiculous (in a good way).
This collection has also developed sort of a cult following on social media and the internet. Check YouTube or Instagram and it’s a viral topic of discussion. Loyal TJ’s fans even update their followers on the pumpkin-flavored goodies they find at their local stores.
I’ve tried a few of the items and they’re as good as they sound. At this point, I’m convinced that Trader Joe’s can add pumpkin to anything and make it taste delightful. The pancake/waffle mix is an all-time fave.
Some of the items sell out REALLY fast, which sucks. The pancake/waffle mix is usually gone in the blink of an eye. My mom cracks me up, because as soon as it’s back in stock, she gets enough boxes to last for the year.
I started doing the same thing after she told me her strategy. Now, I keep a stockpile in my pantry so I don’t have to worry when they run out. Let’s just say that I learn from the best!
Their pumpkin products normally start hitting the shelves in September. Although we’re in the last leg of fall, there’s still time for you to indulge in the pumpkin goodies TJ’s has to offer.
If your not sure where to start, here’s the top five you need to try:
Pumpkin Empanadas
This sweet and savory treat brings latin flavor to the holidays. It’s no secret that pumpkin and pastries go together like peanut butter and jelly.
From the flaky texture to the pumpkin filling in between, TJ’s pumpkin empanadas are a definite must-try.
Pumpkin Bagel
How do you like your bagels? I’ll tell you one thing: Whether you prefer them plain or flavored, TJ’s pumpkin bagels are the real deal. They’re made with pumpkin flour and packed with pumpkin pie spice bits.
If you’re allergic to gluten, they even have a gluten-free option!
Pumpkin Cream Cheese
You can’t have pumpkin bagels without the right kind of cream cheese. In true Trader Joe’s fashion, they have a pumpkin-flavored version of that as well. Double the pumpkin. Double the fun.
Pumpkin Spice Protein Smoothie
This one’s for all the health nuts out there. When you’re feeling festive and in the mood for a protein pick-me-up, this refreshing smoothie is packed with 11 grams of protein. So basically, you get the best of both worlds.
Pumpkin Ravioli
Move over, Chef Boyardee. Some may think that this is a bizarre pairing, but don’t sleep on TJ’s pumpkin ravioli!It serves as the perfect fall dish for those with an exquisite palette, and it actually goes great with TJ’s seasonal pasta sauce.
