Food Creator Lisa Nguyen’s Honest Ranking Of Popular Trader Joe’s Snacks

Popular Trader Joe’s Snacks

To some, picking the best snacks at Trader Joe’s is a delicate practice. And since there’s *so* many to choose from within the wildly winding aisles of their stores, it’s a relentless challenge to land on the ones you like the most. The grocery chain has its fair share of hits and misses (sorry to the Southwest Style Chicken Quesadillas), but there are a few picks that are notoriously in-demand. From sweet to savory tastes, food creator and connoisseur Lisa Nguyen is rating Trader Joe’s *most* popular snacks so you know what’s actually worth the hype. Strap in and get ready to ‘add to cart.’

1. PB & C Snack Duo

Image via Trader Joe's

Peanut butter is an enduring ingredient that can be good in pretty much any snack. Heck, we’ll even eat it alone – right off the spoon like the PB gods intended. The PB & C Snack Duo is a perfectly chocolatey variation on Mr. Joe’s PB & J Snack Duo, made of crispy cocoa cream-filled wafers (á la the greatest to ever do it, Pirouline cookies) and a creamy peanutty dip. Lisa *loves* the way the crunch of the wafers gets balanced out by their peanut butter counterpart, and graciously awarded it the #1 ranking of the five snack contenders.

2. Chile-Spiced Mango

Image via Mrs. Trader Joe's Cart

If you’ve *ever* sank your teeth into a chamoy and chili-covered snack, you know that stuff’s mouthwatering AF. The Chile-Spiced Mango pieces from Trader Joe’s come packaged in a similar spice combo, but lean a little bit more on dry seasonings like paprika and cayenne to carry their flavor kick. Lisa dubs these mangoes as “one of [her] favorite snacks,” but there’s a missing piece that warrants them as second-best. As a spice-loving queen, she craves even more spice!

3. Chili & Lime Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips

Image via Trader Joe's

Did someone say Takis doop? You might say the Chili & Lime Rolled Corn Tortillas from TJ’s are popular for that reason alone. For many snackers, they’re a tidbit of nostalgia *only* accessible through a healthy amount of crunch and tang. Though Lisa acknowledges their correlation to Takis, this Trader Joe’s verison carries a stronger corn tortilla taste – but lacks on the tangy front. Considering it all, this popular TJ’s snack is just fine, landing smack-dab in the middle of the ranking.

4. Reduced Fat Cheese Puffs

Image via Mrs. Trader Joe's Cart

This next snack is also frighteningly similar to another sought-after chip snack. The Trader Joe’s Reduced Fat Cheese Puffs mimic Cheeto Puffs in shape, but Lisa rules the flavor as “good, but not as good” as the OG. The texture is also not this snack’s greatest strength, as she notes they disintegrate in the mouth fairly quickly. Fourth place goes to these cheesy crisps.

5. Strawberry Shortcake Sandwich Cookies

Image via Become Betty

The Strawberry Shortcake Sandwich Cookies from Trader Joe’s are constructed from a sizable stack of butter cookies and strawberry-flavored buttercream filling. Each cookie holds tiny strawberry pieces in an effort to mix in some varying textures, but Lisa found them *way* too sweet to thoroughly enjoy. And since no sweet snack can really beat a combo of chocolate and peanut butter, these bites land in last place. Like Abby Lee Miller’s iconic Dance Moms feedback: “you were good, I’m waiting for you to be better.”

Watch Lisa Nguyen Rank These Popular Trader Joe's Snacks

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Header images via Trader Joe's, Mrs. Trader Joe's Cart

Brown butter pasta. Wedge salads. Espresso martinis. Actual martinis. What do these foods and bevs all have in common? They make me fancy as ever when I’m chowing down on them.

But there’s one flavor in particular that goes above and beyond in the way of fancy foods, and it just so happens to be featured in one of Trader Joe’s tasty new dips.

Trader Joe's

I’m talkin’ truffle, baby! Not one, but two types of the earthy, richly-umami fungus stars in Trader Joe’s Truffle Dip, and TJ’s fans can’t get enough.

Trader Joe’s Truffle Dip boasts an “exceptionally creamy” base made up of ricotta, parmesan, and cream cheese. Most importantly, it earns its super sophisticated flavor from a blend of black truffle paste and white truffle-infused olive oil. Yeah, I’m obsessed.

@traderjoesobsessed

Trader Joe’s fan account @traderjoesobsessed recently shared all the truffle goodness on their page, with truffle-infused favorites like Truffle Burrata, Truffle Brie, andTruffle Oil joining the ranks. Their followers truly blew up the comment section with lots of love for the famed Truffle Dip

“Come through truffle!!!!🔥❤️,” one person wrote.

“I use this as a pasta 🍝 sauce,” another commenter said. “It's amazing!!”

“I think it’s soooo good with the brioche toasts,” someone else said.

“I buy one every week,” another person commented. “I'm obsessed!”

The Trader Joe’s Truffle Dip is shoppable in stores for just $5.49 for 7.5 ounces of the creamy, dreamy product. It’s the perfect addition to slather on lunch wraps and sandwiches and will definitely make your holiday charcuterie spread shine this year.

No matter how you enjoy it, you’re sure to become absolutely obsessed, too.

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I've always loved a pop of blue, red, or yellow in an otherwise neutral space. And while I admire anyone who can masterfully combine all three, blue has always been my clear favorite. Now, IKEA has officially crowned 'Electric Blue' as their 2025 Color of the Year. Inspired by the seas and skies, Electric Blue is a hue that IKEA describes as “contemplative and calm, yet versatile enough for modern and traditional spaces.”

Whether you’re looking to refresh a bedroom, energize a living room, or add a cool pop to your kitchen, this happy, bold shade delivers in the form of wall art, plush throws, or statement-making furniture. The best part? It plays well with others. Pair it with sunny yellows, vibrant oranges, soft lavenders, or even a daring hot pink. Will you be embracing this blue wave in 2025? From rugs and pillows to accessories and more, here are our top picks to embrace the new year with a splash of blue.

Wayfair

Iryanna Upholstered Armchair

This playful elephant trunk design calls for a color that doesn't take itself too seriously, creating a look that's minimalist and modern yet anything but boring.

IKEA

IKEA KLIPPOXEL Throw

This yarn-dyed throw feels just like mohair and it's made from recycled materials. It's a great way to commit to this bright color while on a budget.

West Elm

WE Checkered Shag Washable Rug

This 100% wool rug is actually washable and adds a bit of play and pop of blue to any space.

IKEA

IKEA KYRRE Stool

These stacking stools are so versatile and can be added to the corner of any room for extra seating or tables.

Urban Outfitters

UO Lola Nightstand

This cylindrical side table is perfect for holding your best reads, phone, other bedside essentials.

Amazon

Knot Pillow

Go blue on this iconic pillow for a whimsical and cozy addition to any room.

IKEA

IKEA SLATTUM Upholstered Bed Frame

This affordable bed frame will brighten up your bedroom and day.

Amazon

AllBlue Modern Eclectic Wall Art, Set of 12

For just $10, you can channel your own Blue Period with this striking and eclectic gallery wall.

Etsy

Twist Candles By Lex Pott

Designer Lex Pott combined both base and candle so you don't need a candle holder. Brilliant idea and color!

IKEA

IKEA KRYLBO Chair

Pull up a chair in Electric Blue with this upholstered piece that works in dining rooms, kitchens, and offices.

All Modern

Gemmell Hand Tufted Wool Rug

This 100% hand-tufted New Zealand wool rug makes a bold statement with simple geometric shapes.

IKEA

IKEA PRUNKHALLON Mirror

This wavy mirror in Electric Blue pairs perfectly with the IKEA BLÅSVERK Table Lamp in the same color.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

I have to be very, very careful when I cross paths with Trader Joe’s bakery section. From their Sea Salt Brownie Bites to their Chocolate Brooklyn Babka, sometimes my sweet tooth is too strong to not add a dessert (or two!) to my cart.

This dilemma is especially prevalent around the holiday season – the famed grocery chain just dropped some irresistible sweet treats like Teeny Tiny Pecan Pies andPetit Fours, for which I am so grateful.

But there’s one brand-new treat I truly cannot deny, and it’s downright perfect for every seasonal occasion, from cozy Christmas movie nights to holiday parties.

Trader Joe's

Trader Joe’s new Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies have started a riot amongst TJ’s fanatics like me. And what’s not to love about them? They boast two “perfectly spiced, luxuriously soft-textured, rich and molasses-y” cookies that house a deliciously-sweet vanilla frosting.

I’m a massive fan of Little Debbie’s everything, and this version is an undeniable step-up from their beloved Oatmeal Creme Pies (IYKYK).

TJ’s fan account @trader_joes_treasure_hunt highlighted the Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies on their page, and tons of followers chimed in on just how good they are.

“These are my favorite holiday cookies ever,” one commenter wrote.

“Omg this is my kryptonite,” another said.

“They go down like water,” someone else commented.

The Trader Joe’s Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies go for $5.99 for 9 bodaciously icing-stuffed treats (score!). Whether you bring them to the company Christmas party or a gals-only potluck this year, they’re sure to deliver holiday joy at a quality reminiscent of your local bakery.

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Truth be told, no greater controversy plagues Gilmore Girls fans than the battle of the boyfriends, but we’re finally ending the great boyfriend debate once and for all. Sorry, Team Jess and Team Dean (Is anyone Team Dean?), we’re ruling in favor of Logan Huntzberger — and we’ve got the receipts to back it up.

Before we even begin to look into Rory Gilmore's BFs, though, we must take a look at Rory herself. Although she has her flaws (like stealing yachts when she encounters a shred of criticism, for one), she actually isn’t a terrible girlfriend. “Rory has a secure attachment style,” couples therapist Kayla Sammons, LMFT at Millennial Life Counseling, tells Elite Daily. “She is comfortable being with her partner and apart from him. That’s a good start to building a lasting relationship.”

www.youtube.com

rory & logan (48)

OK — so we know Rory’s a decent person to date. But what about her boyfriends? As all Gilmore Girls fans know, there are the big three; the rather possessive Dean Forester, the moody and literary Jess Mariano, and (our favorite) the wealthy and cheeky Logan Huntzberger. If you’ve watched the show, there’s a good chance you’re adamantly on one of their sides. Let us show you why Logan is the guy you need to get behind.

In speaking with Elite Daily, Sammons agrees that Logan is Rory’s best boyfriend — and apparently it’s not just because he calls her Ace. “Logan and Rory both show signs of high self-esteem, which helps them feel secure in themselves and their relationship,” she says. “Rory feels safe and excited by Logan and his unpredictability, while also knowing she’s safe with him.”

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rory & logan (7)

As all Gilmore Girls fans can recall, they started off as an FWBs before developing an IRL long-term commitment. Sammons says this as a good sign because it shows their ability to grow together. “Rory is able to self-reflect and communicate her need for more from a partner,” she says. “Then, they both take a chance on one another not knowing if it [will] work, and that risk is what relationships are all about.”

Before Rory, Logan was an avid bachelor with a lengthy roster of women. Rory knew this, and never tried to change him when they started seeing each other loosely. Eventually, though, Rory tells tell Logan that she can't see him anymore, because ultimately casual relationships aren't for her. She never once asks him to choose her, which is just what Logan needed to realize how much he wanted (and needed) Rory.

Within seconds, Logan tells Rory that he doesn't want to stop seeing her. He'll trade in his long-term bachelor lifestyle for her. She is officially his one and only. His decision is exactly why their relationship was so strong. It was his choice. He wanted Rory, and Rory wanted him, so he (very) willingly dropped everything for her.

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rory & logan (102)

This moment clearly separates Logan from the insecure Dean and withdrawn Jess, because it shows that he’s ready to step up for Rory. Although it seems like a minuscule moment between Rory and Logan, it showcases their genuine commitment to one another. The slow build of her relationship with Logan, coupled with their compatible personalities, ultimately makes him the best fit for her.

That's not to say that their relationship wasn't without issues, though (like that time they steal a yacht, which is totally NBD). Even in these trying moments, they consistently trust and support each other. They evolve together, cementing their relationship as Rory’s healthiest, even if Rory ultimately rejects Logan’s marriage proposal at her graduation from Yale in quite possibly one of the worst plotline decisions in the history of television (clearly we’re still not over this). Even despite their dalliances in the Gilmore Girls reboot, their compatibility still earns Logan the title of Best Boyfriend.

So there you have it — a definitive summary as to why Logan is the best partner for Rory, even though she inevitably messed it up (as she has a pension for doing). BRB while we overnight a Logan of our own.

Have we convinced you to join Team Logan? Let us know @BritandCo!

Header image courtesy of Warner Bros Television.

This post has been updated.

I’ve triedtons of different food trends in my day. From dumping chili oil on ice cream to concocting my very own Sleepy Girl Mocktail, nothing I’ve eaten measures up to the sheer weirdness we saw go viral on social media this year (major side eye to Dua Lipa’s pickle Diet Coke).

These are the top 5 most ridiculous TikTok-viral food trends of 2024 that left us questioning whether they really should’ve gone viral in the first place.

@claudiaeatsgood chamoy pickles are so good😋😩❤️ @Bussin Snacks #chamoypickle#chamoy#chamoypicklekit#bussinsnacks#takis#fruitrollup#mukbang#asmr#asmrmukbang#chamoypicklemukbang#juicy#pickle#mexicancandy♬ original sound - Claudia💕

1. Chamoy Pickles

People couldn't quit it with the chamoy pickles (AKA chickles) this year. I never would've guessed that chamoy, a condiment made from dried fruits, chilies, sugar, and lime juice, would be slathered atop the sourest pickles money can buy.

But the food trend didn't stop at just chamoy – many snackers stuffed their pickles with everything from the likes of Hot Cheetos, Takis, and Fruit Roll-Ups. What?!

This insanely sour, tangy treat kickstarted what the internet's coined as the 'Red 40 Diet', which certainly cannot be medically advised.

If you care for your GI tract, this food trend is 100% worth skipping and leaving behind in 2024.

@dualipaofficial

What do we call her?

♬ original sound - Dua Lipa

2. Pickle + Jalapeño-Infused Diet Coke

Diet Coke, pickle juice, and jalapeño juice = all the ingredients needed to concoct Dua Lipa's controversial 2024 drink. She loves it, but I on the other hand, do not.

Now, don't get me wrong: I love a good unexpected flavor combo, but gulping down a simultaneous dose of both pickle juice and jalapeño juice was not tasty to me whatsoever.

This trend even sparked a slew of Sonic diners to start ordering their soft drinks with pickles – but as divisive as this trend can be ("Don’t knock it till you try it," TikToker Mississippi Memaw told Food and Wine), it's just flat out weird.

@logagm

New cucumber recipe 🚨

♬ original sound - Logan

3. Cucumber Salad

If you bought a mandolin slicer recently, you might as well admit you're a victim of the TikTok-viral cucumber salad trend that made its rounds this year.

"Sometimes you need to eat an entire cucumber," TikTok user @logagmsounds off in the intro of every single one of his cucumber salad videos. And thus, the food trend was born.

It felt like I couldn't go a day on TikTok without seeing at least 5 recipes for a damn cucumber salad. When it comes down to it, I can appreciate the novelty (and taste) of this trend, but not the oversaturation. I'm gonna eat an entire cucumber one day, and get so tired of it the next. New innovations in 2025, please!

@kylekruegerr Would you try these?😂 #foodreview#seagrapes#food#review#tastetest#weirdfood♬ original sound - Kyle Krueger

4. Sea Grapes

It was like people wanted to eat the weirdest, grossest things in 2024. I can't blame 'em, especially if it's for clicks and views. But this food trend in particular literally made me want to gag – and I was only watching people eat through a screen (any fellow ASMR fans out there?).

They don't look like they're supposed to be crunchy, but they are. Sea grapes grow from aquatic plants and are filled with essentially what is a "salty liquid." They burst in the mouth when you eat them (one TikToker called them 'edible Orbeez'). Yuck.

@julieta.asmr I figured it out!! Blooper at the end 🥴 #asmr#asmrcommunity#asmrtiktoks#asmrvideo#asmrsounds#asmreating#asmrfood#asmrfyp#asmrmukbang#mukbang#asmreatingsounds♬ original sound - Julieta ASMR 🍒

5. Exploding Candies

The final (and especially weird) food trend I propose we leave behind in 2024 is these dang exploding jelly candies. They also made their rounds on ASMR TikTok, and I truly cannot stand to watch a single video featuring them.

First off, they look so annoying to consume. The fruit-shaped jellies are contained in a thin layer of plastic that's meant to burst open when you sink your teeth into it, prompting you to slurp out the sweetness inside. But what irks me the most is the fact that many people trying them can't even break the seal.

I'd rather watch someone make a simple PB&J than go to town on these microplastic-infused candies.

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