There's something magical about walking into Trader Joe's in October. The air smells like cinnamon, half the store turns orange, and suddenly I'm convinced I need pumpkin-flavored everything - even dog treats.
Over the years, I've tried more pumpkin products from Trader Joe's than I'd like to admit. Some are incredible, some are "okay, once was enough," and a few are forever fall staples in my kitchen. So here it is - my personal list of the best Trader Joe's pumpkin products of all time, based on taste, texture, and how quickly the box disappears once I bring it home.
Pumpkin cheesecake
If you've ever wondered what would happen if cheesecake and pumpkin pie had a baby, this is it. Trader Joe's Pumpkin Cheesecake is rich, creamy, and spiced just right. The graham-style crust holds it together beautifully, and it's one of those desserts that feels homemade without any effort.
I've served this for Thanksgiving dessert more than once and always get asked if I baked it myself (I don't correct anyone). It's perfectly balanced - not too sweet, not too heavy - and honestly, one of TJ's best seasonal desserts ever.
Pumpkin ice cream
If there's a Mount Rushmore of Trader Joe's fall desserts, Pumpkin Ice Cream deserves a spot. It's smooth, creamy, and full of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The pumpkin flavor is gentle but unmistakable - cozy without being cloying.
I like to scoop it on top of warm Pumpkin Brioche Waffles or a slice of Pumpkin Cheesecake for the ultimate fall overload. If you've never tried it, make this your first buy of the season.
Pumpkin ravioli
This is where things get fancy. Trader Joe's Honey Roasted Pumpkin Ravioli looks like something from a high-end restaurant, but you can have it on the table in minutes. The filling is creamy and just a little sweet, with notes of brown butter and nutmeg.
I usually toss it with browned butter and a sprinkle of parmesan (or sage if I'm feeling chef-y). It's fall comfort in pasta form and tastes like something you'd serve with a glass of wine and pretend you made from scratch.
Pumpkin bread & muffin mix
This mix has been around forever, and it's still a fan favorite for good reason. Trader Joe's Pumpkin Bread & Muffin Mix is foolproof - super moist, perfectly spiced, and impossible to mess up.
I usually make it into muffins, then freeze half for quick school breakfasts. Add chocolate chips, walnuts, or even swirl in some Trader Joe's Pumpkin Butter if you want to get fancy. It tastes (and smells) like your kitchen belongs in a fall baking commercial.
Pumpkin butter
Speaking of it - Trader Joe's Pumpkin Butter is one of those simple things that makes everything better. It's like a sweet pumpkin jam, thick and glossy, with just enough spice to make your toast or oatmeal feel special.
I spread it on Pumpkin Brioche Twist, stir it into yogurt, or drizzle it over pancakes. It's fall in a jar, and it lasts forever (well, theoretically - mine never makes it past two weeks).
Pumpkin brioche twist
Trader Joe's Pumpkin Brioche Twist might just be the best-smelling item in the whole store. Soft, buttery, and swirled with pumpkin purée and warm spices, it makes the most amazing French toast.
Even just toasted with butter, it's heavenly. The texture is rich and fluffy, and the subtle pumpkin flavor makes it feel like a treat any time of day. If you only grab one bakery item this season, make it this one.
Pumpkin cream cheese spread
Okay, I didn't expect to love this one as much as I do. Trader Joe's Pumpkin Cream Cheese Spread is sweet, creamy, and surprisingly versatile. It's perfect on a toasted bagel, yes - but it's also amazing as a dip for graham crackers, pretzels, or apple slices.
I even once spread it between two Trader Joe's Pumpkin Joe-Joe's for a makeshift ice cream sandwich situation - highly recommend.
Pumpkin Joe-Joe's
You can't make a pumpkin list without including the classic Trader Joe's Pumpkin Joe-Joe's. They're crunchy sandwich cookies with pumpkin spice crème filling, and they taste like fall Oreos (but better).
They're sweet, spiced, and perfect for coffee breaks. I crush them over ice cream or crumble them into pie crusts for an easy dessert hack. They've been around for years, and I hope they never leave.
Pumpkin O's cereal
Trader Joe's Pumpkin O's might look like a kids' cereal, but they're way too good to share. Lightly sweet, crunchy, and coated in just enough spice to feel festive without being sugary.
They stay crisp in milk and make a great grab-and-go snack. I've also mixed them into trail mix with pumpkin seeds and chocolate chips - instant fall snack perfection.
Pumpkin body butter 🧴
Yes, this one's not edible - but hear me out. Every year, people go wild for Trader Joe's Pumpkin Body Butter, and for good reason. It smells like a fancy candle, feels super rich and moisturizing, and somehow makes your skin smell like a pumpkin latte without being overpowering.
It's a cult favorite for a reason, and it deserves a spot on this list right next to the edible stuff.
Honorable mentions
- Trader Joe's Pumpkin Pancake & Waffle Mix - sweet, fluffy, and nostalgia in a box
- Trader Joe's Pumpkin Spiced Teeny Tiny Pretzels - sweet, salty, and totally addictive
- Trader Joe's Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew - a must for iced-coffee lovers
- Trader Joe's Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins - one of the best bakery items when they're in stock
Final thoughts
Trader Joe's pumpkin season isn't just about food - it's an annual event. The best part is, there's truly something for everyone: sweet, savory, creamy, crunchy, even skincare.
Whether you're team cheesecake or team ravioli, these are the products that keep people coming back every fall - year after year. Stock up when you see them, because once the peppermint hits the shelves, the pumpkins vanish.
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