Let’s get real: something magical happens when you walk into a Trader Joe’s. The moment you step inside, it’s as if you’re entering a universe of wacky snacks, deals, and workers so happy you’ll want to give them a hug. For others of us, it’s more of a road trip maybe even a two-hour trek but honestly, it’s fewer headaches and more an adventure. It’s like searching for food treasure, and the payoff? Absolutely worth it.
So what makes Trader Joe’s so special? It’s not just about groceries; it’s an experience. From quirky seasonal treats to everyday staples you can’t find elsewhere, every aisle feels like an unexpected surprise around the corner. And don’t even start us on prices low enough that you’ll feel like you’re a winner in life. The 16th annual 2025 Customer Choice Awards have just been announced, and the winners are proof we’ll happily climb in the car for those classic TJ’s sensations.
In this post, we’re diving into 14 of the top-voted products that have Trader Joe’s fans buzzing. These aren’t just groceries; they’re the kind of items that spark joy, inspire recipes, and make every bite (or slather, in one case) feel like a celebration. From spicy snacks to decadent desserts, here’s why these picks are worth the journey and trust me, your shopping cart will thank you.
1. Chili & Lime Flavored Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips
Picture this: you’re craving a snack that’s crispy, zesty, and a little hot. Say hello to Trader Joe’s Chili & Lime Flavored Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips, the fourth-year Customer Choice Award recipient. These are not simply a snack they’re a full-on flavor explosion that makes you wonder why you ever bothered with plain old tortilla chips. Shoppers can’t stay away, and I’m not sure I fault them.
So why are these chips so freaking addictive? It’s a perfect mix of citrus lime and a little chili that doesn’t get in the way but makes you want more. They’re rolled up tightly for extra crunch, so every single bite is wonderfully crunchy. Munch on them straight from the bag (no judgments here!) or use them to scoop up your favorite dip, these chips are a complete game-changer for snack time.
Why they’re worth it
- Spicy chili and zesty lime flavor that’s bursting with punch
- Just-right crunchy bite for snacking or dipping
- Versatile to use on nachos, as taco toppings, or just plain munching by the handful
And the most wonderful thing: they’re not just limited to snacking. Chip them up and sprinkle them over a salad as a spicy crouton alternative, or utilize them as a topping for nachos as an event-championed appetizer. These chips are so good, you’ll forget the miles you traveled to buy them. Hoard a batch, because once the bag’s open, they’re gone in no time!
2. Hashbrowns
Mornings can be rough, but Trader Joe’s Hashbrowns are here to save the day. These crispy, golden potato patties are a breakfast MVP, earning a top spot in the Customer Choice Awards for their sheer convenience and deliciousness. If you’re someone who loves a hearty breakfast but doesn’t have time to peel and shred potatoes, these are your new best friend.
Each patty is made from newly shredded potatoes, so you get the crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside action we all adore. Toss them into a pan or oven, and in a matter of minutes, you’ve got a side dish that’s beautifully paired with eggs, bacon, or even just a pinch of ketchup. They’re simple, they’re satiating, and the sort of dish that allows you to feel like a breakfast guru without breaking a sweat.
How to enjoy them:
- Serve with scrambled eggs and avocado for an old favorite breakfast
- Wrap with sausage and cheese for a breakfast burrito
- Top with sour cream and chives for a late-night munchie
But the magic is? Their versatility. You can flavor them with spices and herbs, mix them into a breakfast casserole, or even use them as the base for a high-end eggs Benedict. These hashbrowns are proof that Trader Joe’s has figured out how to make mornings better, and they’re well worth flinging in your cart on your next TJ’s run.
3. Teeny Tiny Avocados
Avocado lovers, rejoice! Trader Joe’s Teeny Tiny Avocados are the 2025 produce savior, and they’re literally the cutest, most convenient avocados you’ll ever meet. These teeny avocados are neatly portioned just right, and you can enjoy a whole avocado without having to worry about the other half browning in the fridge. It’s as if Trader Joe’s heard our brains and fixed one of life’s greatest avocado puzzles.
These mini avocados are just as creamy and flavorful as their bigger cousins, but their size makes them ideal for single servings. Whether you’re smashing them onto toast, slicing them for a salad, or whipping up a quick guac, they’re a total game-changer. Plus, they’re a sustainable choice since you’re less likely to waste any precious avocado goodness.
Why they’re a must-buy:
- Perfectly sized for one person, reducing food waste
- Creamy consistency ideal for toast, salads, or guacamole
- Taste and flavor of full-sized avocados
These are wonderful to keep in my fridge for a quick meal. Spread one on toast with a sprinkle of chili flakes, or blend into a smoothie for a creamy boost. They’re so simple and delicious, they’re well worth that long drive to Trader Joe’s for avocado heaven.
4. Spiced Cider (Seasonal)
Nothing is as warm as a mug of steaming Trader Joe’s Spiced Cider, the 2025 category winner beverage. It’s autumn in a bottle, a blend of actual apple juice with cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg that results in a beverage that’s basically a hug in a bottle. It’s only offered for a finite time, so when you see it hitting the stores, you know you need to stock up.
Regardless of whether you heat it up for a snuggle-up-in bed drink or serve cold over ice, this cider is pure comfort food. It’s not too sweet, just a gentle sweetness with a whisper of spice to get you all your warm fuzzies. And if you feel like going full-on party hat, a dash of bourbon or rum turns it into a cocktail fit for even the most hardened guests.
Special applications for it:
- Warm it up for a night in
- Combine with sparkling water to make a spritzer
- Thin it down into a glaze for pork or chicken
And beyond drinking, this cider is a culinary secret weapon. Try to reduce it to use as roasted vegetable glazes or drizzle over pancakes for a breakfast of fall. It’s the kind of seasonal, all-purpose treasure that you’ll be grateful for when you go out to Trader Joe’s before it’s all sold out.
5. Creamy Spinach & Artichoke Dip
Looking for something to please a crowd at your next event? Trader Joe’s Creamy Spinach & Artichoke Dip is the dream appetizer, taking home top honors in the 2025 awards. This creamy, cheesy dip is the easiest thing in the world to warm up and serve, it’s almost like Trader Joe’s captured party magic in a bottle. Serve it with crackers, tortilla chips, or sliced baguette, and watch it vanish.
The combination of creamy spinach and tender artichokes in a cheesy base is pure comfort food. It’s the kind of dip that makes everyone hover around the snack table, scooping up every last bit. Whether you’re hosting a game night or just treating yourself, this dip delivers big on flavor without any effort.
Serving ideas:
- Pair with veggies like carrots and celery for a lighter option
- Spread on a sandwich for a gourmet twist
- Use as a pizza sauce for a wicked homemade pie
And here’s a pro tip: don’t save it just for appetizers. Spread it on a grilled cheese sandwich or add it to pasta for a creamy, veggie-filled meal. This dip is so flexible, it’s worth the trip just to have it on hand for those moments when you need a quick, delicious fix.
6. Cashel Blue Cheese Irish Potato Chips (Limited Edition)
Trader Joe’s is famous for big flavor, and their Cashel Blue Cheese Irish Potato Chips don’t disappoint. Named the best new product of 2025, these limited-release chips feature rich Cashel Blue Cheese paired with robust potatoes for a snack that’s both indulgent and irresistible. Cheese devotees, these are for you.
The flavor is rich and savory, with the tangy, creamy flavor of blue cheese expertly balanced by the crunchy potato texture. They’re not merely chips they’re a gourmet snack that you won’t be able to find in your neighborhood supermarket. Since they’re limited edition, you’ll have to save them up before they’re gone from store shelves.
How to enjoy them:
- Use to add crunch to a cheese board
- Pair them with a warm soup for a filling lunch
- Sprinkle over a salad for a robust flavor boost
These chips are perfect for lending a little je ne sais quoi to a regular snack or impressing guests at a dinner party. Toss them onto a charcuterie board or crunch them straight out of the bag either way, they’re a delicious reason to make that trip to Trader Joe’s.
7. Goat Cheese
Cheese lovers, prepare yourselves: Trader Joe’s Goat Cheese is a silky, tangy delight that’s an instant fridge favorite. This easy cheese is a bestseller with its creamy texture and ability to shine sweet or savory. Top bread with it or toss it over a salad either way, it’s a staple.
Arriving in a variety of flavors, this goat cheese is stunning with fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of honey. The subtle but approachable taste adds a level of sophistication to whatever you’re consuming, turning it from a casual snack into a schmancy schmancy cheese platter. It’s the sort of item that makes you feel like you’re a food rockstar.
Ideas for using it:
- Spread on toast with honey and walnuts for breakfast
- Crumbles atop roasted beets for a vibrant salad
- Blends with pasta for a decadent, tangy sauce
I love keeping a supply of this goat cheese on hand for impromptu gatherings or quick meals. It’s so easy to elevate a dish with its richness, and it’s another excuse for that visit to Trader Joe’s.
8. Butter Chicken with Basmati Rice
When you’re starving but don’t have the energy to cook, Trader Joe’s Butter Chicken with Basmati Rice is a lifesaver. This frozen meal is a consistent winner in the Best Lunch & Dinner category, and it’s easy to see why. It’s like a little trip to India, with tender chicken in a creamy tomato sauce served over fluffy basmati rice.
Just. Heat it up, and within minutes you are enjoying restaurant-quality meal without the hassle. The sauce is extremely rich and flavorful with just the right spice to make your taste buds smile. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something comforting but in a rush.
Innovative serving ideas:
- Roll in a tortilla with lettuce to create a fusion wrap
- Serve with naan bread for the real deal
- Serve over roasted vegetables for a complete meal
For a variation, use the butter chicken as a filling in stuffed peppers or mix with other vegetables for a bowl filling. It’s such a versatile meal that it delivers on Trader Joe’s frozen food department is brimming with gems to drive for.
9. Sublime Ice Cream Sandwiches
Dessert enthusiasts, prepare yourself to go wild over Trader Joe’s Sublime Ice Cream Sandwiches, the 2025 dessert category winner. These are not your average ice cream sandwiches these are a heavenly pair of soft chocolate chip cookies, creamy vanilla ice cream, and an extra layer of chocolate chips on top for the perfect crunch.
Each bite is a texture paradise, as the soft cookies break under the smooth ice cream and a chocolatey burst of deliciousness. Rich but perfectly sized, they let you indulge your sweet tooth without going overboard. Spoiling yourself or sharing with friends, these sandwiches are pure heaven.
How to eat them:
- Enjoy directly from the freezer for optimal instant gratification
- Mix with milk for a decadent milkshake
- Serve over fresh berries as an elegant dessert
The sandwiches are so good, you’ll never remember you drove for hours to Trader Joe’s. Keep a box in your freezer for the times when only the finest dessert will do.
10. Brazil Nut Body Butter (Limited Edition)
Surprise! It’s not all about the grub at Trader Joe’s. Their Brazil Nut Body Butter is a cult-favorite non-food item that’s won hearts in 2025. It’s a self-care superstar rich cream that will leave your skin smooth, hydrated, and scented with the aroma of a rich blend of salted caramel and pistachio.
The rich, moisturizing formula sinks into your skin, so it’s perfect for post-shower pampering or even as a hand cream when it’s cold outside. The scent is subtle but cannot be resisted, lasting just long enough to give you the feeling that you’re treating yourself to something extra special.
Why you need it:
- Super-hydrating for soft, smooth skin
- Unique, luxurious scent without being overpowering
- Limited release, so grab it before it’s gone
Slather it on after a long day, or keep a tub beside your bed for a relaxing foot massage. This body butter is just one of the ways Trader Joe’s proves to be full of surprises, and makes that road trip worthwhile.
11. Brookie
Having a hard time choosing between a brownie and a cookie? Trader Joe’s Brookie is for you. This amazing dessert combines a chewy brownie and a fudgy chocolate chip cookie to create something truly magical. It’s a bestseller for a reason each bite is pure heaven in the form of rich, sweet perfection.
The brownie is fudgy and chocolatey, and the cookie layer provides a light, vanilla-flavored sweetness. It’s the perfect indulgence when you want it all. Cut into slices and share with friends or take a slice for yourself, the Brookie always satisfies.
Serving ideas:
- Heat it through and serve over ice cream for an indulgent dessert
- Cut into party pieces for a platter
- Serve with a coffee for a sweet pick-me-up
This is a dessert that anyone can have at any time. Another reason to drive to Trader Joe’s because who wouldn’t desire a cookie-brownie combination?
12. Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups
If chocolate and peanut butter is your language of love, then Trader Joe’s Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups will be your next obsession. These bite-sized pieces of heaven are encased in rich dark chocolate and filled with creamy salty peanut butter, a perfect combination of sweet and savory.
Each cup is the ideal size for a quick treat, so stash them in your purse or desk for a pick-me-up in the middle of the day. The quality ingredients shine through, giving you a guilt-free indulgence that’s gourmet-tasting. They’re a best seller, after all!
Why they’re great:
- Perfect combination of dark chocolate and peanut butter flavor
- Ideal size for snacking
- Quality ingredients
Instead, attempt to chop them up and sprinkle on top of ice cream or add to a trail mix for a sweet surprise. These peanut butter cups are a necessity that will make your Trader Joe’s run a win.
13. Chocolate Lava Cakes
You need to impress your dinner guests without slaving away in the kitchen for hours? Your best-kept secret is Trader Joe’s Chocolate Lava Cakes. These small desserts are a decadent treat, with a spongey exterior and gooey, molten chocolate center that flows out with each cut.
Baking them is a breeze just pop them in the oven, and in minutes, you’ve got a restaurant-quality dessert. They’re perfect for date nights, dinner parties, or just treating yourself to something special. The rich chocolate flavor is pure indulgence.
Serving ideas:
- Top with whipped cream and berries for extra flair
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Dust with powdered sugar for a classic touch
These lava cakes are incredible, you’ll feel like a pastry chef without the hassle of doing it all. They’re a delicious reason to take a trip to Trader Joe’s, no matter how long it takes to drive there.
14. Triple Cream Brie Cheese
Foodies, this one’s for you. Trader Joe’s Triple Cream Brie Cheese is a rich, creamy indulgence that takes any meal or snack to the next level. With its silky, buttery texture and deep flavor, it’s a winner, whether used as a spread on crackers or as a topping on a cheese board.
The rind is also edible and adds a subtle earthy taste, which pairs nicely with the creamy interior. It’s luxurious but also versatile, pairing well with fruits, jam, or a glass of wine. This brie is the kind of cheese that makes you feel like a stuffy person without getting too fancy.
Pairing ideas:
- Pair with fresh grapes and fig jam
- Spread on a baguette and drizzle with honey for a sweet-savory bite
- Serve alongside a dry white wine as an elegant snack
