14 Holiday Favorites Recommended by Trader Joe’s Employees

Elevated Cracker Assortment

For those looking to impress at holiday gatherings, the Elevated Cracker Assortment is a must-have. This collection features a variety of crisp, buttery crackers that pair perfectly with cheeses, spreads, or even on their own. With flavors ranging from classic buttery to sea salt and black pepper, this assortment offers something for every palate. The crackers’ texture is delightfully light and crisp, making them an ideal base for both savory and sweet toppings. They come in elegant packaging, making them a perfect gift or party snack. Whether you’re hosting or attending, these crackers will elevate any charcuterie board.

Mini Mushroom Tartelettes

Mini Mushroom Tartelettes are a bite-sized delight that captures the essence of comfort and elegance. With a flaky, buttery crust, they are filled with a creamy mushroom and cheese mixture that brings depth of flavor to every bite. These tartelettes are perfect for holiday appetizers or as a savory snack with drinks. The mushrooms used are earthy and rich, complemented by herbs and a touch of cheese that makes each tartlet burst with flavor. They’re easy to heat up, making them a convenient option for last-minute gatherings. Trader Joe’s employees recommend these as a crowd-pleaser that can easily be served at any festive event.

Jingly Jangly

Jingly Jangly is the ultimate holiday candy mix that combines sweet and salty flavors in one delicious package. Inside, you will find a mix of chocolate-covered treats, crunchy pretzels, and caramel bits, all coated with a festive candy coating. This snack is perfect for sharing, whether you’re snacking on it during a movie marathon or passing it around at a party. Its fun and colorful packaging adds to the holiday cheer, making it a treat that’s as appealing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. The blend of textures—from crunchy to creamy—makes each bite exciting. Employees say it’s hard to stop reaching for more once you start.

Jingle Jangle for Dogs

Trader Joe’s has even thought of our four-legged friends during the holidays with Jingle Jangle for Dogs. This festive dog treat mix includes crunchy, peanut butter-flavored treats, yogurt-covered biscuits, and other tasty morsels that are sure to delight your pup. The treats come in a cute, holiday-themed packaging, making it the perfect gift for your furry companion. Jingle Jangle is made with high-quality ingredients and is a great way to show your dog some extra love during the holiday season. It’s also a great way to involve your pet in the holiday festivities without worrying about harmful ingredients. Employees love that it’s a way to share the holiday spirit with pets in a safe and tasty way.

British Shortbread Collection

For those who enjoy the simple elegance of traditional baked goods, the British Shortbread Collection is a holiday favorite. The buttery, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread cookies come in several classic variations, from plain to ones with chocolate drizzles or raspberry preserves. These cookies are perfect for tea time or as a sweet addition to any holiday dessert spread. Their rich flavor and crisp texture are a nod to British baking traditions, and each box is beautifully packaged, making them an ideal gift. These shortbreads pair wonderfully with coffee, hot cocoa, or even a glass of wine. Trader Joe’s employees rave about their authentic taste and timeless appeal.

Lemon Stuffed Chalkidiki Olives

Lemon Stuffed Chalkidiki Olives bring a refreshing twist to the typical olive. These large, green olives are stuffed with tangy lemon zest, creating a flavorful contrast between the briny olive and the bright citrus. They are perfect as a snack on their own or paired with cheeses, crackers, and charcuterie. The olives come from Chalkidiki, a region known for its high-quality olives, ensuring a premium product. Their bold, zesty flavor makes them a great addition to holiday appetizers or Mediterranean-inspired meals. Employees say these olives are a unique treat that adds something special to any holiday spread.

Holiday Vegetable Hash

Trader Joe’s Holiday Vegetable Hash is a convenient yet flavorful addition to your holiday meals. This mix of diced sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and other seasonal vegetables is perfect for roasting, sautéing, or even as a hearty filling for a breakfast hash. The vegetables are pre-chopped and ready to cook, making meal prep a breeze. They are lightly seasoned with salt and pepper, allowing you to customize the flavor to your liking. Whether you’re looking for a side dish or a main vegetarian option, this hash is an excellent choice. Employees recommend it as an easy and nutritious way to add holiday flavors to any meal.

German Iced Gingerbread Soft Spiced Cookies

For those who love the warming flavors of gingerbread, the German Iced Gingerbread Soft Spiced Cookies are a holiday must-try. These cookies are soft and chewy with a spiced flavor that includes ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, creating a comforting winter treat. Each cookie is topped with a light, sweet icing, adding a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the spices. The texture is soft, almost cake-like, which makes them different from traditional crispy gingerbread cookies. These treats are ideal for pairing with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Trader Joe’s employees note that they are a perfect way to enjoy a taste of traditional German holiday baking.

Cheesy Creamy Greens and Veggies

Cheesy Creamy Greens and Veggies is a holiday dish that’s both indulgent and nutritious. This comforting side features a mix of greens, including spinach, and a creamy cheese sauce that perfectly complements the vegetables. The dish is easy to prepare—just heat and serve, making it an ideal option for busy holiday cooks. The creamy saucer is rich without being overly heavy, and it has a perfect balance of flavors that enhances the vegetables without overwhelming them. Whether served with a holiday roast or as a side to a vegetarian meal, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Employees recommend it for anyone looking to add a tasty, veggie-packed dish to their holiday spread.

English Toffee Ice Cream

For dessert lovers, the English Toffee Ice Cream is a holiday treat that hits all the right notes. This ice cream is loaded with crunchy toffee pieces that give each spoonful a satisfying crunch, while the rich and creamy vanilla ice cream base brings a smooth balance. The toffee itself has a buttery sweetness that’s both indulgent and comforting, making this a perfect winter dessert. It’s great on its own or served with warm pies or cakes. The combination of textures—creamy and crunchy—makes every bite a little indulgence. Trader Joe’s employees say this ice cream is a surefire hit at any holiday gathering.

Festive Chaos of Gummy Candy

The Festive Chaos of Gummy Candy is a playful and fun treat for the holiday season. This colorful mix of gummy candies comes in various shapes and flavors, including holiday-themed options like snowflakes, trees, and reindeer. The gummies are soft, chewy, and bursting with fruity flavors that kids and adults alike will love. Whether you’re filling a candy dish or adding it to gift bags, this mix adds a whimsical touch to any celebration. The combination of different gummy types makes it a varied treat, satisfying a range of tastes. Employees recommend it as the perfect candy for festive snacking or as a holiday party favor.

Blue Cheese Stuffed Chalkidiki Olives

For blue cheese lovers, the Blue Cheese Stuffed Chalkidiki Olives are an irresistible snack. These large, green Chalkidiki olives are filled with creamy blue cheese, creating a rich and savory bite. The tangy cheese pairs beautifully with the briny olives, creating a unique and bold flavor combination. They are perfect for snacking, adding to charcuterie boards, or serving as an appetizer at holiday gatherings. The olives themselves are plump and tender, providing a satisfying texture. Trader Joe’s employees recommend these as a savory treat for anyone looking to elevate their holiday spread with a gourmet touch.

Mini Gingerbread People

Trader Joe’s Mini Gingerbread People are a delightful, bite-sized treat that captures the warmth and spice of the season. These little cookies are packed with the perfect balance of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses, offering a comforting flavor that will remind you of classic holiday baking. The tiny, yet sturdy, cookies hold their shape well and have a satisfying snap with each bite. They are great for snacking, sharing at holiday parties, or even as stocking stuffers. With their cheerful design, these mini gingerbread people bring a festive touch to any celebration.

Panettone

Trader Joe’s Panettone is a festive Italian classic that’s perfect for holiday celebrations. This sweet, fluffy bread is traditionally made with dried fruit, citrus zest, and a hint of vanilla, creating a rich flavor that’s both light and indulgent. Each bite offers a delicate sweetness and a satisfying texture that pairs wonderfully with coffee or a holiday beverage. The panettone comes in a beautifully packaged box, making it an excellent gift option or centerpiece for your holiday table. Its aroma, fresh out of the oven, fills the room with holiday cheer. While traditionally enjoyed during Christmas and New Year, it is delicious enough to enjoy all season long.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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