The first official day of autumn was this past Wednesday, September 22nd. To celebrate this recognized date, the RamPage Staff tried different Trader Joe’s brand seasonal products and reviewed them for our readers. After all, what is the point of changing seasons, if not to consume the flavors that are associated with certain times of the year?
The first product that we tried was “Maple & Sea Salt Kettle Corn.” This product offered a unique and fitting twist to classic popcorn. The popcorn itself was simultaneously soft, crispy, and crunchy. The amount of carmel per corn was perfect, neither too much nor too little. The only flavor that could possibly be incorporated more was the maple, which is evident but not as prominent as it is marketed as. Overall, this item was rated an 8/10.
Next, we tested “Apple Cider Spread.” This unique taste was certainly sweet, with an almost jelly-like texture. It resembled apple pie filling, especially when eaten with a croissant. The staff unanimously agreed that it would taste better if it was warm. Ultimately, this item was rated a 5.3/10.
Another product that we tried was “Cinnamon Bun Spread.” This sweet item did not disappoint the classic cinnamon spice fall flavor. This spread resembled the taste and texture of cinnamon bun filling, although a bit more carmelly than expected. It was both well advertised and executed. This item advanced among the others with a rating of 9.7/10.
We then sampled “‘this pumpkin walks into a bar…’ Cereal Bars.” After the built-up hype surrounding the creative name, this item under-delivered. This product was bland, dry, and severely lacking flavor. In that, the taste itself resembled more pumpkin than pumpkin spice. Sorry, Joe, we’re going to have to give this one a 2/10.
The final product we sampled was “Milk Chocolate Smashing S’mores with Graham Cracker and Marshmallow” bites. This product was advertised well, and tasted exactly as it should. Down to the fluff of the marshmallow, the crunch of the graham cracker, and the milkiness of the chocolate, this item mirrored the taste and texture of a little s’more. The staff again agreed that, like the apple cider spread, this item would taste better if it was warm. Triumphing over all others, this treat received a rating of 9.8/10.
This palette of tastes, although ranging from delightful to disappointing, accurately summed up the many flavors of the season. For fall enthusiasts, there’s no other place to shop than Trader Joe’s in preparation for cooler temperatures and turning leaves.
