Katie Nelson

Center Editor

If you’re like me, getting into the fall spirit requires a run to Trader Joe’s. With lots of seasonal foods, Trader Joe’s is the place to go for some autumn snacks and treats. Here are some of the must-haves that should make it onto your next Trader Joe’s shopping list.

Pumpkin Pancake and Waffle Mix: This pancake-waffle mix makes it into the cart every time. Not only does the mix speed up the breakfast process, but it has the perfect amount of pumpkin flavor paired with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger spices. They’re quick, easy to make, and turn out light and fluffy every time. Make these for a power-up breakfast before heading to the pumpkin patch. 

Pumpkin Flavored Joe-Joes: Similar to an Oreo, this is a seasonal spin on the classic Joe-Joe’s treat. The Joe-Joe’s creation includes a smooth pumpkin creme between two vanilla shortbread cookies. A perfect go-to for any holiday party!

Cinnamon Bun Spread: You can use this versatile spread for far more than baking cinnamon rolls. The delicious composition of fall spices paired with vanilla and honey make it a fantastic spread for toast, on pastries, and in cakes. I’ve even seen it put in coffee! Loved by many, rush to get this before the shelves are empty!

Butternut Squash Mac-n-Cheese: This mac-n-cheese was surprisingly delicious. The three-cheese blend pairs perfectly with the nutty butternut squash and tangy autumn spices. It’s a great pick-me-up meal that takes only a few minutes of magic in the microwave. I will absolutely be buying this again!

Fall Chips: Be sure to grab a bag (or three) from the selection of Trader Joe’s seasonal chips. The leaf-shaped tortilla chips are crispy and lightly salted, and the simple deliciousness of Boo chips is always undisputed.

Apple Cider: Cozy up with a blanket and a mug of their delectable spiced cider. An annual favorite in my family, we unanimously agree that TJ’s makes the best store-bought cider. Made of freshly pressed apples and coupled with our favorite fall spices, this is a must-have for any fall movie night!

Petite Pumpkin Spice Cookies: Returning for their ninth season, these petite pumpkin cookies are El Gato tested and approved! These pumpkin shortbread cookies are coated in a yogurt-based icing and topped with sprinkles– shaped like pumpkins, of course. 

Caramel Apple Mochi: This one made the list for its unique flavor and spin on this classic fall combo. The center is apple ice cream swirled with caramel and wrapped in caramel colored rice dough. A yummy fall snack that offers some innovative flavors to the pumpkin palette. 

Unfortunately, I’m unable to cover the plethora of seasonal items at Trader Joe’s in one article, but a shout out to all the other delicious things including the pumpkin bagels, spiced cider pumpkin yogurt, apple cider donuts, pumpkin spice snickerdoodle mix, pumpkin sheet cake, pumpkin sticky toffee cakes, and pumpkin cranberry crisps: we still love you all.