If you've ever wanted apple pie for breakfast, Trader Joe's This Apple Walks Into a Bar cereal bars are probably the next best thing. They've been around for years and always seem to hit that nostalgic, cinnamon-apple spot that feels like fall - even if it's July. They're soft, chewy, and a little sticky in the middle, making them one of the easiest grab-and-go snacks Trader Joe's sells. I also tried the pumpkin and blueberry versions.
First impression
These bars look identical to the other flavors in the "Walks Into a Bar" lineup - golden crust, fruit-filled center, and that warm, homey smell when you open the wrapper. The scent of cinnamon and baked apple hits first, and it honestly reminds me of a toaster pastry but softer.
Each box comes with six individually wrapped bars, which makes them great for tossing into a lunchbox, backpack, or purse. The bars are small but filling enough to get you through a morning commute or an afternoon slump.
Flavor and texture
The flavor is bright and sweet - think applesauce meets apple pie filling. You get that juicy apple flavor with a hint of cinnamon and sugar, but it's not as over-the-top sweet as the pumpkin version. The texture is what makes these stand out: soft, chewy, and slightly sticky from the filling, with an exterior that's tender rather than crunchy.
They're not flaky or crumbly, which means no mess when you're eating one in the car or at your desk. The balance between apple and spice is actually pretty good - it tastes cozy but not artificial. If you've ever warmed one up for a few seconds, you know it smells exactly like apple pie.
My favorite ways to enjoy them
I usually grab one with my morning coffee or tea when I don't have time for breakfast. On cooler mornings, I like to microwave one for ten seconds - it softens the crust and makes the apple filling taste freshly baked. My kids love them in lunchboxes, and I'll sometimes pack one with a banana or yogurt for a simple breakfast combo.
They're also great for travel days or school snack time since they don't melt or crumble. I've even crumbled one over plain oatmeal for an easy apple topping, and it worked surprisingly well.
Nutrition profile
Each bar has about 120 calories, 2,5 grams of fat, 27 grams of carbs, and 16 grams of sugar. It's not exactly a high-protein snack (just 2 grams), but it's perfect when you just need something quick and satisfying. Compared to the pumpkin version, this one feels slightly lighter and less dessert-like.
The ingredient list is simple - oats, apple purée, apple juice concentrate, sugar, cinnamon, and a few natural flavors. No artificial colors or preservatives, which I appreciate.
Where to find it
You'll find these in the snack and breakfast bar section, right next to the other "Walks Into a Bar" flavors like pumpkin and fig. Trader Joe's usually keeps this apple version available year-round, but it gets extra attention during fall when everything apple-flavored takes over.
Similar items to try
If you love these, you might also like
- Apple Cinnamon Buns - soft, doughy, and another great apple treat
- Pumpkin Biscotti - for a crunchy fall dessert pairing
- Trader Joe's Joe's O's Cereal Bars
- Trader Joe's Chewy Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars
- Trader Joe's Simply Nutty Bars - Dark Chocolate, Nuts, and Sea Salt
My final thoughts
Trader Joe's This Apple Walks Into a Bar bars are one of those reliable snacks that always taste like fall. They're sweet, soft, and comforting, and while they won't keep you full for hours, they're perfect for a quick breakfast or mid-day snack. The apple flavor feels bright and homey, and the texture is just right.
I'd give them 4 out of 5 stars - simple, satisfying, and worth keeping around, especially when you're craving something cozy but don't have time to bake.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐☆
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