As we inch closer and closer to the fall season, many of our favorite seasonal foods are appearing on the shelves in our favorite grocery stores and cafes. From the infamous Pumpkin-Spiced lattes, to pumpkin cookies and breads, it truly does not feel like fall without these special treats. However, this wanting to engage in the spirit of the season begs the following question, does the coziness of the season overhype these costly drinks and foods, or are they actually worth the attention?
To start, Trader Joe’s released their all autumn treats on September 1. On social media, Their items take the world by storm each September as people flock to buy new items and old favorites. Their lines are extensive during the months of September and October, as people embrace the fall season by indulging in pumpkin themed-foods and Halloween shaped desserts.
As I was seeking to perfect my own fall indulgences, first I tried the Pumpkin Tortilla Chips. Made with pumpkin puree, pumpkin seeds, cinnamon and nutmeg, these chips are mostly salty with a hint of sweetness. They are not super overpowering with the pumpkin flavor, as the flavor only really appears in the aftertaste. While they are a fun addition to pantry during the Fall season, they aren’t anything super unique beyond a regular tortilla chip.
Next up was the Pumpkin Spiced Joe-Joe’s, which are pumpkin sandwich cookies covered ina yogurt-flavored coating with sea salt. Despite their cute packaging and an interesting appeal, they are not worth the purchase. The pumpkin flavor is extremely overpowering, and it is reminiscent of what a Fall-candle might taste like. While the salty covering does balance out the flavors, there isn’t enough of this taste to make the cook- ie enjoyable. For someone who loves the taste of cinnamon and strong pumpkin spice, this cookie is perfect. Otherwise, I would not recommend this item nor spend money on this dessert.
Switching towards baked goods, the Pumpkin Brioche Twist is a must-buy. A traditional sweet brioche bread with a hint of spice and pumpkin, this bread is perfect for a cozy fall breakfast with hot chocolate or coffee. It is very sweet and fluffy, and looks as if it was made fresh in a bakery when you take it out of the packaging. It is best enjoyed hot with butter or as Fall French Toast, but no matter how you eat it, it is delicious.
Finally, the best item of the day was the Apple Cider Donuts, which are old-fashioned donuts with apple cider and cinnamon sugar. These donuts are amazing and they are even better than donuts from a traditional donut store. While super fresh and fluffy, they retain an amazing Fall flavor that leaves you wanting more. They come in a box of six, and are perfect to share with friends, family, or for breakfast before school. They are worth every penny, and are similar to cinnamon-donuts you would find at a fair.
So, does the idea of the season overhype these costly drinks and foods, or are they actually worth the attention?
“I personally think they are so worth the hype because I love pumpkin as well as apple flavored treats,” says senior Ava Nekoomaram. “My favorite place to get fall snacks is Trader Joe’s because they have the best stuff. I definitely think it’s worth it.”
Likewise, after trying these items myself, I have to agree. These treats are a limited edition and out only for this specific season.
