With fall in full swing, many are looking to cure their seasonal cravings with pumpkin, maple, and chai. Trader Joe's is known for its seasonal products that hit the shelves every year when the leaves turn beautiful colors and the air becomes crisp.
They have a wide selection available that has a little something for everybody. Your pantry will be stocked and your kitchen will smell of warm spices. Here are some of my favorites to get your grocery list started:
1. Pumpkin Rolls with Cinnamon Spice Icing
A festive fall twist on the classic Pillsbury cinnamon roll. These rolls are made with warm flavors including pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The icing is flavored with pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and ginger.
These are the ultimate way to start a lazy Saturday morning. Warm rolls straight from the blazing hot oven, icing dripping and melting over the edges, and moist dough. What could get better than that?
2. Petite Pumpkin Spice Cookies
These adorable pumpkin-shaped, crunchy shortbread cookies topped with a sweet yogurt coating are the perfect snack. They remind me of Circus Cookies, a childhood favorite. However, I can guarantee that these are much better quality. Right from the first bite, a hint of pumpkin spice adds a subtle and delightful kick to your palate. Grab a plate and stack them up!
3. Pumpkin Waffles
Start the day off right with these mouthwatering waffles! Just throw them in the toaster, add some maple syrup, and top them off with some whipped cream. You might also try topping them with some sautéed apples mixed with a little butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. If I'm being completely honest, the pumpkin flavor is subtle, but they are still a quick delectable delight for a chilly fall day.
4. Pumpkin Butter
This thick and sweet spread screams everything fall. If you haven't tried it yet, you're definitely in for a treat. It won't be around all year, so stock up quickly before it's gone. It's made with pumpkin, sugar, honey, lemon juice concentrate, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and nutmeg.
The spreading possibilities are endless. Smother it all over your toast, bagels, pancakes, french toast, waffles, biscuits, and more. You can't go wrong with this crowd-pleaser!
5. Pumpkin Cream Cheese Spread
Spice up your morning with this light and fluffy cream cheese spread. It has hints of pumpkin flavor accompanied by various spices.
It is delicious when it's spread on toast and bagels but the sky is the limit! You may never eat traditional cream cheese again once you get a taste of this.
6. Spicy Chai Tea Latte Mix
If you're a caffeine addict like me, especially when it comes to sweet and spicy chai, you'll definitely appreciate and fall in love with this latte mix. This is offered year-round and I always make sure to grab a couple when I'm there.
It can be prepared both hot or cold. This creamy and soothing drink will give you the energy boost you need for the day ahead.
7. Non-Dairy Maple Oat Milk
If you are looking for a smooth and sweet dairy alternative to add to your afternoon chai, morning coffee, oatmeal, or just something to drink straight up, then be sure to try out this maple oat milk. The natural maple flavor adds the perfect amount of sweetness and isn't overwhelming at all. Oat milk is personally one of my all time favorites when it comes to picking and choosing dairy free milks because of its light and creamy texture.
8. Spicy Pumpkin Curry Simmer Sauce
This simmer sauce is incredibly flavorful and so easy to use. The spice is moderately strong but not overwhelming to the point where you feel like you're breathing fire. It's a creamy vegan sauce made with pumpkin puree, coconut cream, and spices. I would suggest this to fans of Thai and Indian food.
I prepared it the same way I would prepare any simmer sauce: cubed chicken, sliced onions, and green pepper. I mixed it all together on the stovetop and served it on top of warm Trader Joe's jasmine rice which I located in the freezer section. If you are vegan or vegetarian, I would suggest mixing it with tofu. This was the perfect meal after a long day of classes. Give it a try!