14 Most Overrated Products at Trader Joe’s to Avoid

Remember this: Trader Joe’s has some cool and affordable stuff, but not everything is as awesome as people say. Some things are super popular, but others are kind of meh when it comes to quality, taste, or price. Here are some overrated items at Trader Joe’s that you might want to skip.

Cauliflower Gnocchi

While many rave about Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Gnocchi as a low-carb alternative, the texture is often its downfall. The gnocchi can turn gummy or mushy, even when prepared according to the instructions. Achieving a crisp exterior takes extra effort, such as pan-frying, which defeats the ease of a quick meal. Additionally, the cauliflower flavor can be a bit overpowering, leaving little resemblance to traditional potato gnocchi. For a similar carb-conscious option, zoodles or spaghetti squash might offer a more satisfying bite.

Everything but the Bagel Nut Duo

This snack mix sounded like a dream for fans of the famed Everything but the Bagel seasoning, but it doesn’t quite hit the mark. The flavor distribution is uneven, with some nuts lacking seasoning entirely while others are overly coated. The mix tends to be dry, lacking the balance of textures you’d expect from a quality nut mix. The novelty wears off quickly, leaving you with a product that feels more like a miss than a must-have. There are better snack options at Trader Joe’s that deliver a more consistent flavor experience.

Joe-Joe’s Cookies

These sandwich cookies are often compared to Oreos, but they don’t hold up in flavor or texture. The cookies themselves can be hard and lack the melt-in-your-mouth quality of their more popular counterpart. The cream filling, which should be the star, is overly sweet and artificial-tasting. While the seasonal flavors can be fun, the original version is often disappointing, especially when there are so many better dessert options at Trader Joe’s. You might be better off sticking to a tried-and-true name brand for your cookie fix.

Organic Tomato & Roasted Red Pepper Soup

This soup is marketed as a wholesome and comforting option, but it often falls short in flavor. Despite its name, the roasted red pepper barely comes through, leaving a mostly bland tomato base. The texture is a bit too thin for a satisfying soup, and it lacks the richness that makes tomato soup a comfort food staple. You may find yourself needing to doctor it up with extra seasoning or cream just to make it palatable. For a quick and tasty soup, Trader Joe’s has better options, like their Butternut Squash or Lentil varieties.

Cauliflower Pizza Crust

Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Pizza Crust promises a guilt-free alternative to traditional dough, but the execution leaves much to be desired. The crust has a tendency to fall apart when cooked, making it difficult to enjoy as a pizza. The flavor is also lacking, with an overly processed taste that doesn’t blend well with toppings. While it’s marketed as a healthy swap, it’s often more trouble than it’s worth when you consider the texture and flavor compromises. A better choice might be a whole wheat or thin crust pizza base, which offers a healthier option without sacrificing taste.

Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream

Trader Joe’s Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream sounds like a refreshing treat for matcha lovers, but the flavor and texture miss the mark. The matcha taste is barely noticeable, and the ice cream has a grainy texture that detracts from the creamy experience you’d expect. The sweetness overpowers the delicate matcha flavor, making it taste more like a generic green tea dessert than a true matcha indulgence. Other ice cream flavors at Trader Joe’s, like the Mango Sorbet or the Brownie Crisp Coffee Ice Cream, offer a far more satisfying treat.

Almond Butter Cocoa Bars

These snack bars sound appealing for almond butter fans, but they often disappoint in both taste and texture. The bars are overly dense and have a gritty texture that makes them difficult to enjoy. The cocoa flavor is minimal, and the almond butter is almost non-existent, leaving the bar bland and unsatisfying. While they might seem like a good snack-on-the-go, there are far better energy bar options at Trader Joe’s that offer more flavor and a better texture. Skip these and try the RX Bars or even the Trader Joe’s trail mix instead.

Sriracha Sauce

Trader Joe’s Sriracha Sauce often gets overshadowed by the iconic Huy Fong version, and for good reason. The flavor profile is less balanced, with a heavier emphasis on sweetness that masks the expected kick of heat. The texture is also thinner, making it less ideal as a versatile condiment for dipping or cooking. While it tries to mimic the cult-favorite sriracha, it simply doesn’t have the same depth of flavor or consistency. For those who are sriracha enthusiasts, it’s best to stick with the original or explore other more flavorful hot sauces that Trader Joe’s offers.

Brioche Buns

Trader Joe’s Brioche Buns may look fluffy and inviting, but they often fall short in terms of texture and taste. The buns are overly sweet for a brioche, making them less versatile for savory dishes like burgers or sandwiches. Additionally, the texture can be inconsistent, with some buns feeling too dense and lacking the light, airy quality you’d expect from a true brioche. While they may work for a sweeter application like breakfast sandwiches or sliders, there are better options available at other stores. For a more authentic brioche experience, it’s worth exploring local bakeries or other brands.

Chicken Tikka Masala

Trader Joe’s Chicken Tikka Masala is a convenient frozen meal, but it may not fully capture the rich, complex flavors that fans of the dish expect. The sauce leans more toward creamy than spicy, making it a milder option for those who prefer a less intense flavor profile. The chicken is tender, but it can sometimes be slightly firm, depending on preparation. While the portion size is modest, it’s still a quick and easy meal when you’re short on time. For those looking for a more robust tikka masala experience, this could be a nice starting point, though exploring restaurant or homemade options might offer a deeper flavor.

World’s Puffiest White Cheddar Corn Puffs

Trader Joe’s World’s Puffiest White Cheddar Corn Puffs are light and airy, making them a fun, crunchy snack option. However, the white cheddar flavor is quite mild, so they may not satisfy those who prefer a bolder cheese taste. The texture is delightfully puffy, but the lack of seasoning can leave you wanting a bit more punch. They’re great for kids or for a lighter snack, but if you’re craving a stronger cheddar flavor, other cheesy snacks might be more fulfilling. That said, they’re still a good option for anyone looking for a lighter, guilt-free treat.

Jingle Jangle

Trader Joe’s Jingle Jangle is a festive favorite during the holiday season, but it may not always offer the best value for its price. While the assortment of chocolate-covered treats like pretzels, popcorn, and candies is fun, the relatively small portion sizes compared to the cost can feel a bit underwhelming. The tin is visually appealing and perfect for gifting, but for personal snacking, it’s possible to find more affordable options that deliver a similar mix of sweet and salty treats. If you’re looking for something festive, Jingle Jangle is a nice choice, but for those focused on value, there might be more budget-friendly alternatives.

Speculoos Cookie Butter

Trader Joe’s Speculoos Cookie Butter has a cult following, thanks to its creamy, spreadable texture and spiced, gingerbread-like flavor. While it’s undeniably delicious, it can be quite rich and sweet, which might not appeal to everyone, especially in large amounts. Its versatility shines in desserts or as a topping, but some find it too indulgent for everyday use. Additionally, its novelty can wear off after a few servings, making it more of an occasional treat than a pantry staple. If you love sweet spreads, it’s worth a try, but moderation is key to fully enjoying its unique flavor.

Black Bean & Cheese Taquitos

Trader Joe’s Black Bean & Cheese Taquitos offer a quick and easy snack or meal option, but they might not stand out among similar products. The black bean filling is smooth and mildly spiced, though some may wish for a bit more flavor complexity. The cheese is creamy, but it tends to get lost in the mix, making the overall taste a bit one-dimensional. These taquitos are great for a fast bite, especially when paired with salsa or guacamole, but they might not be as satisfying on their own. If you’re looking for a quick snack, they do the job, but other frozen options might offer a bit more flavor variety.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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