15 Must-Try Trader Joe’s Products With Insane Cult Followings (You’ll Want to Stock Up!)

Julie Ann - June 5, 2025
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Trader Joe’s isn’t just another grocery store—it’s a culinary treasure trove known for its unique, high-quality, and surprisingly affordable items that customers simply can’t resist. From snacks and sauces to frozen meals and desserts, many Trader Joe’s products have sparked passionate followings, with devoted fans eagerly sharing their favorites online and stocking up obsessively. Whether it’s because of their inventive flavors, unbeatable prices, or simply their quirky charm, these standout products have transcended from mere groceries into viral sensations. Ready to discover the buzz-worthy items that have captured hearts (and shopping carts)? Here are 15 Trader Joe’s finds you’ll want to grab before they’re gone!

1. Mandarin Orange Chicken

1. Mandarin Orange Chicken
A delicious serving of crispy Mandarin Orange Chicken from Trader Joe’s, freshly prepared from a convenient frozen meal. | Image source: Photo by Sutee Pheera on Pexels

If there’s one frozen meal that Trader Joe’s customers consistently rave about, it’s the Mandarin Orange Chicken. Fans adore the perfectly crispy chunks of chicken and the tangy, sweet glaze that’s bursting with authentic flavor. Many enthusiasts go as far as claiming it’s better than their favorite Chinese takeout, praising its restaurant-quality texture and taste. Easy to prepare and ready in minutes, this freezer staple has garnered a loyal following, often ranking as Trader Joe’s number one frozen food choice. Be warned—once you try it, you may never look at takeout menus the same way again.

2. Speculoos Cookie Butter

Speculoos cookie butter
Image source: Wikimedia Commons

Trader Joe’s Speculoos Cookie Butter has rapidly become a pantry essential for those with a sweet tooth. Imagine the comforting taste of spiced gingerbread cookies transformed into a silky, spreadable delight. Fans can’t get enough of its creamy texture and warmly spiced flavor, making it a versatile indulgence for almost anything—toast, waffles, fruit slices, or even spooned straight out of the jar. Its addictive sweetness and subtle cinnamon-ginger kick have created a devoted following, inspiring countless creative recipes and passionate online discussions. Once you’ve tasted this irresistible treat, you’ll understand why shoppers stockpile it by the jarful.

3. Everything but the Bagel Seasoning

Everything but the bagel seasoning
Image source: Wikimedia Commons

Trader Joe’s Everything but the Bagel Seasoning has quickly become a pantry powerhouse, celebrated for its ability to instantly elevate everyday meals. This flavorful blend combines sesame seeds, flaky sea salt, dried garlic, onion, and poppy seeds, replicating the beloved “everything” bagel topping in sprinkle-friendly form. Its versatility has inspired countless culinary creations, from jazzing up avocado toast and scrambled eggs to seasoning roasted vegetables and grilled proteins. Fans enthusiastically share their innovative uses online, proving there’s virtually no limit to how this savory seasoning can enhance your dishes. Prepare to sprinkle it generously—this seasoning truly lives up to its hype.

4. Cauliflower Gnocchi

Cauliflower gnocchi
Deliciously golden Trader Joe’s cauliflower gnocchi served as a wholesome and tasty alternative to traditional pasta. | Image source: Unsplash

Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Gnocchi is a game-changer for pasta lovers seeking a lighter, yet equally delicious alternative to traditional potato-based gnocchi. Crafted primarily from cauliflower, this fluffy, pillowy delight has captured the attention of health-conscious shoppers and foodies alike. Fans especially love pan-frying it until golden and crispy, enhancing its delightful texture before pairing it with flavorful sauces like fresh pesto, rich marinara, or browned butter and sage. The popularity of this gnocchi has sparked endless recipe ideas on social media, proving its versatility and earning it a permanent spot in many freezers nationwide. One bite, and you’ll understand the obsession.

5. Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups

Dark chocolate peanut butter cups
Delicious dark chocolate peanut butter cups from Trader Joe’s neatly arranged, tempting with creamy peanut butter filling. | Image source: Unsplash

Trader Joe’s Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups have earned legendary status among chocolate lovers, quickly surpassing mainstream candy brands in taste and quality.
These delectable treats combine velvety, rich dark chocolate with smooth, creamy peanut butter, striking the perfect balance between sweet and savory.
Fans rave about their luxurious texture and indulgent flavor, praising Trader Joe’s for using premium ingredients that elevate these cups to gourmet-level confections.
Whether enjoyed as an afternoon pick-me-up or an after-dinner indulgence, these peanut butter cups have sparked countless online recommendations and loyal devotees who proudly declare them superior to any other brand.

6. Unexpected Cheddar Cheese

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A tempting cheese board featuring Trader Joe’s Unexpected Cheddar paired beautifully with crackers, fruit, and nuts. | Image source: Photo by Kyle Roxas on Pexels

Trader Joe’s Unexpected Cheddar Cheese has earned its quirky name by delighting cheese enthusiasts with an astonishing blend of flavors. This unique cheese seamlessly combines the sharp tang of aged cheddar with the nutty, savory notes reminiscent of fine Parmesan. Its creamy yet crumbly texture makes it ideal for slicing or breaking into bite-sized morsels, perfect for elevating cheese boards, sandwiches, or salads. Fans appreciate its versatility and gourmet taste, frequently recommending it as a must-have addition to any gathering or snack spread. Prepare to be pleasantly surprised—this cheese is certain to become a staple in your kitchen.

7. Hold the Cone! Mini Ice Cream Cones

9. Hold the Cone! Mini Ice Cream Cones
Image source: Photo by Ali Dashti on Pexels

Trader Joe’s Hold the Cone! Mini Ice Cream Cones have won over dessert lovers with their perfectly petite size and delightful combination of textures. These adorable treats feature crunchy cones lined with rich chocolate, generously filled with creamy ice cream, and topped with a luscious chocolate shell. Fans adore how their miniature size satisfies sweet cravings without overindulging, making them ideal for a quick dessert or mid-day snack. Their popularity has soared thanks to enthusiastic recommendations, with customers eager to share their love for the delicious flavors and portion-controlled convenience. Be warned—it’s nearly impossible to stop at just one!

8. Joe Joe’s Cookies

Sandwich cookies filled with creamy frosting
A tempting stack of Trader Joe’s Joe Joe’s sandwich cookies filled with creamy frosting, ready to indulge in. | Image source: Unsplash

Trader Joe’s Joe Joe’s Cookies have become iconic sandwich cookie favorites, charming customers with their nostalgic taste and wholesome ingredients. Available in delicious varieties like classic chocolate and vanilla, festive peppermint, and seasonal pumpkin spice, these treats consistently earn rave reviews for their superior flavor and satisfying crunch. Fans frequently compare Joe Joe’s favorably to national cookie brands, praising Trader Joe’s commitment to high-quality ingredients without artificial additives. Whether enjoyed dunked in milk, paired with coffee, or savored straight from the box, these addictive cookies have earned their spot as a pantry staple, inspiring enthusiastic devotion and loyal repurchases.

9. Chicken Tikka Masala

Chicken tikka masala
A steaming bowl of Trader Joe’s Chicken Tikka Masala, showcasing tender chicken pieces in creamy, aromatic sauce. | Image source: Unsplash

Trader Joe’s Chicken Tikka Masala brings authentic Indian cuisine straight to your freezer, delighting fans with its rich, savory flavors and restaurant-quality appeal. Tender chicken pieces are generously coated in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce that’s expertly balanced and deeply satisfying. Customers frequently praise its authentic taste profile, comparing it favorably to dishes from their favorite Indian restaurants. Perfect for busy evenings, this microwaveable meal offers convenience without sacrificing flavor or quality, quickly becoming a go-to favorite among shoppers. If you’re craving a flavorful, comforting dinner that’s ready in minutes, this frozen gem will soon earn a permanent place in your freezer.

10. Vegan Kale, Cashew & Basil Pesto

Vegan kale, cashew & basil pesto
A vibrant jar of Trader Joe’s Vegan Kale Cashew Basil Pesto, highlighting the fresh ingredients of this savory vegan sauce. | Image source: Pexels

Trader Joe’s Vegan Kale, Cashew & Basil Pesto has swiftly become a favorite among both plant-based eaters and flavor-seekers alike. Bursting with vibrant, garden-fresh flavor, this pesto blends hearty kale, aromatic basil, and creamy cashews into a deliciously smooth sauce that’s remarkably versatile. Fans appreciate how effortlessly it elevates simple dishes, whether stirred into warm pasta, spread onto crusty bread for sandwiches, or used as a flavorful dip for veggies and crackers. Its bright, herbaceous taste and vegan-friendly ingredients have earned widespread praise, making it an essential fridge staple for anyone craving fresh, easy meal enhancements.

11. Soy Chorizo

Soy chorizo
Trader Joe’s vegan Soy Chorizo, a flavorful meat substitute perfect for tasty and satisfying plant-based dishes. | Image source: Photo by Polina Tankilevitch on Pexels

Trader Joe’s Soy Chorizo has quickly gained fame as a standout meatless alternative, impressing even the most devoted carnivores with its authentic spicy, smoky flavor.
Made from seasoned soy protein, this vegetarian-friendly chorizo packs a flavorful punch, making it easy to incorporate into a variety of dishes.
Fans rave about its versatility, using it to elevate tacos, breakfast burritos, hearty chili, and even pasta dishes.
Its savory taste and satisfying texture have sparked enthusiastic recommendations online, as shoppers discover countless inventive ways to enjoy this plant-based favorite.
Whether you’re vegetarian or simply exploring meatless options, Soy Chorizo is definitely worth stocking up on.

12. Frozen Garlic Naan

Frozen garlic naan (1)
Warm, golden-brown Trader Joe’s frozen garlic naan bread freshly heated, garnished with aromatic herbs and spices. | Image source: Pexels

Trader Joe’s Frozen Garlic Naan has become a beloved freezer essential, impressing fans with its authentic, bakery-quality flavor and unbeatable convenience. Lightly seasoned with savory garlic and herbs, each piece bakes up soft, fluffy, and wonderfully aromatic—perfectly capturing the essence of freshly made naan. Enthusiastic customers appreciate how easily it pairs with curries and soups or serves as a satisfying snack all on its own. Its popularity continues to soar as shoppers share their excitement, often stocking their freezers to ensure they’re never without this delicious staple. For a restaurant-worthy side in minutes, this garlic naan truly delivers.

13. Cinnamon Bun Spread

Cinnamon bun spread
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Trader Joe’s Cinnamon Bun Spread is a sweet, indulgent treat that perfectly captures the comforting flavors of freshly baked cinnamon rolls. This velvety spread features the warming notes of cinnamon and sugar, blended into a deliciously smooth, creamy texture that fans can’t resist. Customers rave about its versatility, generously slathering it onto warm toast, swirling it into oatmeal, or even incorporating it into their favorite baked recipes. Its irresistible taste and coziness have inspired a dedicated following, with shoppers eagerly recommending this decadent delight to friends and family. One taste, and you’ll understand why it quickly earns pantry-staple status.

14. Plantain Chips

Plantain chips
A crunchy bowl of Trader Joe’s plantain chips offers a tasty, wholesome alternative to traditional salty snacks. | Image source: Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels

Trader Joe’s Plantain Chips are delightfully crunchy snacks that have rapidly gained popularity among shoppers seeking healthier alternatives to traditional potato chips. Thinly sliced and lightly fried, these chips offer a satisfying crunch along with the perfect balance of salty and subtly sweet flavors. Fans particularly enjoy their versatility, pairing them with guacamole, salsa, or hummus, or simply savoring them straight from the bag. Praised for their straightforward ingredients and addictive, crispy texture, these chips have become a pantry essential for snack enthusiasts everywhere, proving that healthier snacking doesn’t mean sacrificing taste or satisfaction.

15. Belgian Chocolate Pudding

Belgian chocolate pudding
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Trader Joe’s Belgian Chocolate Pudding offers pure indulgence, quickly becoming a beloved dessert for anyone craving luxurious chocolate goodness.
This decadent treat boasts a silky-smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor, reminiscent of upscale dessert shops and gourmet restaurants.
Chocolate lovers especially praise its rich, creamy consistency and depth of flavor, often describing it as the ultimate comfort food.
Perfect straight from the fridge or topped with fresh berries and whipped cream, this pudding has achieved cult-like status among Trader Joe’s enthusiasts, who never miss an opportunity to recommend it as a must-have indulgence.

Conclusion

Traders joe
Image source: Wikimedia Commons

Trader Joe’s has masterfully built a devoted fanbase by consistently offering products that deliver exceptional quality, unique flavors, and unbeatable value. The 20 items listed above, from indulgent sweet treats and convenient frozen meals to versatile pantry staples and snacks, have all earned passionate followings—and for good reason. Whether you’re a seasoned Trader Joe’s enthusiast or new to the experience, exploring these cult-favorite products is a delicious way to discover what makes this grocery chain truly special. So, next time you’re strolling the aisles, be sure to stock up on these fan-approved favorites—you might just find your next obsession!

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