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What’s New at Trader Joe’s in December? Caesar Salad Dip, Jingly Jangly and More

Bring on the peppermint (and cheese)

what's new at trader joe's december 2024: jingly jangly
Trader Joe's

Trader Joe has tons of creative appetizers, drool-worthy mains, on-trend snacks and seasonal desserts on his shelves year-round. But he just released a bunch of new items for the month that are particularly perfect for finding under the Christmas tree (or in the snack drawer). Here are 13 of my favorite Trader Joe's items to shop this December, many of which are destined for your holiday table, like sugared rice cracker stars and dark chocolate candy cane marshmallows.

We Tried 12 Random Trader Joe’s Products to Find Out Which Were Actually Worth the Buy


1. Caesar Salad Dip

The herby, umami-rich salad of your dreams just got a makeover, and personally, I'm eager to dunk everything from crudités to grilled steak in this party-worthy dip. Complete with anchovy paste and Parmesan cheese, this zesty spread packs a flavorful punch.

2. Sugared Rice Cracker Stars

Crafted in Thailand, these gluten-free crackers are first dipped in a modest layer of soy sauce and honey, then topped with coarse sugar crystals to create a sweet-and-salty, irresistibly crunchy snack. They'd be a festive addition to any holiday grazing board.

3. Mini Mushroom Tartelettes

You already have a massive holiday feast to fuss over—the hors d’oeuvres should be the least of your worries. The tartlets are teeming with a cheesy filling that's rich with white and shiitake mushrooms. Bake them in the oven or air fryer for a crispy finish.

4. Dark Chocolate Orange

Not gonna lie, these seasonal candies are one of my favorite things about citrus season. It comes apart in individual segments like a real orange, so it's basically designed for sharing (but I wouldn't blame you for devouring the whole "fruit" yourself).

5. Jingly Jangly

Brace your taste buds for an epic mix of dark and milk chocolate-covered pretzels, dark chocolate-covered caramel popcorn, Joe-Joe's cookie bits, milk chocolate candy gems and milk and dark chocolate mini peanut butter cups. If that doesn't make you feel holly-jolly, I don't know what will.

6. Garlic Gondolas

It's ridiculously garlicky, stone oven-baked bread topped with cheese—any questions? Like a cross between garlic bread and pizza, these boats pair beautifully with soup, salad, grilled chicken and blistered cherry tomatoes alike.

7. Spiced Cranberry Granola

This morning glory boasts all the spices and fruits that you usually find in winter desserts. I'm talking sweetened oat clusters seasoned with cinnamon and nutmeg, plus sweet-tart dried cranberries, almonds and candied orange peel. Coconut flakes offer tropical flair to boot.

8. Dark Chocolate-Dipped Candy Cane Marshmallows

Crunchy, chewy, fluffy, rich and nostalgic, these marshmallows are covered in a snowy flurry of crushed candy canes for extra magic. Santa wouldn't mind receiving a plate of these in place of your usual sugar cookies. Might I suggest dropping a few in your next mug of hot chocolate?

9. French Onion Popcorn

Your favorite winter soup meets your go-to snack. Seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, Parmesan cheese, butter and spices, this popcorn will evoke the same coziness of its namesake. Wash it down with white wine (or mulled cider) while you're at it.

10. Cheddar & Parmesan Cheese Snackers

The base is flaky French puff pastry—need I say more about these buttery, savory poppables? Serve them with onion jam, cured meat, fancy cheese or your drink of choice. (I'm partial to a crisp lager or a glass of Champagne.)

11. Granny Smith Apple & Calvados Spirited Fruit Spread

You know that wheel of Brie that you're planning to cut the top off of and bake to bubbly perfection? Crown it with this sweet-tart accompaniment to take it to the next level. ICYMI, Calvados is an apple-pear brandy from Normandy, which makes this spread destined for an elegant holiday happy hour.

12. German Iced Gingerbread Soft Spiced Cookies

Inspired by springerle, an old-school German cookie from the 14th century, these are thick, chewy, embossed and designed for sharing. They're laced with plenty of cinnamon, ginger, clove, black pepper and nutmeg for pleasant bite. Think of them as a cross between ginger snaps and molasses cookies.

13. Uncured Bacon Wrapped Scallops

This may not be your typical surf and turf, but the pairing is just as heavenly. Silky, delicate scallops meet rich, smoky bacon for an appetizer (or entrée, if you serve them with risotto, salad or a few sides) that your guests will ask the recipe for. Don't worry, your secret is safe with me.


taryn pire

Food Editor

  • Contributes to PureWow's food vertical
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  • Studied English and writing at Ithaca College