Aldi Copycat Creations: Delicious Recipes Using Aldi’s Best Dupes
Aldi has become a grocery store phenomenon, known for its incredibly low prices and surprisingly high-quality products. One of the things that makes Aldi so appealing is its range of “dupes” – products that closely resemble name-brand favorites but come at a fraction of the cost. This opens up a world of possibilities for creating delicious and affordable meals at home. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best Aldi copycat products and share mouthwatering recipes that showcase their versatility.
## Why Aldi Copycats are a Game Changer
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about why Aldi’s dupes are such a big deal:
* **Budget-Friendly:** The most obvious benefit is the price. Aldi’s versions are almost always cheaper than their brand-name counterparts, allowing you to save money without sacrificing flavor.
* **Comparable Quality:** In many cases, Aldi’s copycats are surprisingly similar in quality and taste to the originals. Some people even prefer them!
* **Accessibility:** Aldi’s growing popularity means more and more people have access to these budget-friendly alternatives.
* **Experimentation:** With the money you save, you can afford to be more adventurous and try new recipes.
## Stocking Your Pantry with Aldi’s Best Dupes
Here are some of Aldi’s best copycat products that you should keep an eye out for:
* **Millville Cereals:** Aldi’s version of popular cereals like Cheerios, Frosted Flakes, and Raisin Bran are incredibly popular and taste very similar to the name brands.
* **Clancy’s Snacks:** From chips and pretzels to crackers and tortilla chips, Clancy’s offers a wide range of snack options that rival big-name brands like Lay’s, Ruffles, and Doritos.
* **Friendly Farms Dairy Products:** Aldi’s dairy products, including milk, yogurt, cheese, and ice cream, are high-quality and affordable.
* **Simply Nature Organic Products:** Aldi’s organic line offers a variety of organic staples, including pasta sauce, canned goods, and snacks.
* **Bake House Creations:** Aldi’s refrigerated dough products, such as biscuits, crescent rolls, and pizza dough, are great for quick and easy meals.
* **Specially Selected Products:** This line features gourmet and specialty foods, including cheeses, olives, and sauces.
* **Kirkwood Chicken:** Aldi’s frozen chicken products, including chicken breasts, chicken tenders, and chicken wings, are a great value.
* **Reggano Pasta and Sauces:** Aldi’s pasta and sauces are a great base for a variety of Italian-inspired meals.
* **Goldhen Eggs:** Aldi’s eggs are a budget-friendly staple.
* **Belmont Ice Cream:** Aldi’s ice cream comes in a variety of flavors and is a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Now, let’s get to the recipes!
## Recipe 1: Aldi’s “Nutella” Inspired Hazelnut Spread Brownies
This recipe uses Aldi’s hazelnut spread (often called “Choceur Hazelnut Cream”) as a substitute for Nutella in a rich and decadent brownie recipe. The result is a fudgy, nutty treat that’s perfect for chocolate lovers.
**Ingredients:**
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1/2 cup Aldi’s Choceur Hazelnut Cream (or similar hazelnut spread)
* 2 large Goldhen eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan.
2. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and hazelnut spread until smooth and well combined.
3. **Add Eggs and Vanilla:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
5. **Combine Wet and Dry:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. **Add Chocolate Chips (Optional):** Stir in the chocolate chips, if using.
7. **Bake:** Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached.
8. **Cool and Cut:** Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Enjoy!
## Recipe 2: Aldi’s “Goldfish” Cracker-Crusted Chicken Tenders
This recipe uses Aldi’s fish-shaped crackers (usually from the Clancy’s brand) to create a crispy and flavorful coating for chicken tenders. It’s a fun and kid-friendly alternative to traditional breaded chicken.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound Kirkwood chicken tenders
* 1 cup Clancy’s fish-shaped crackers (or similar), crushed
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon paprika
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 large Goldhen egg, beaten
* 2 tablespoons milk
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Chicken:** Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
2. **Crush Crackers:** Place the fish-shaped crackers in a zip-top bag and crush them into fine crumbs using a rolling pin or food processor. Transfer the crumbs to a shallow dish.
3. **Combine Cracker Mixture:** In the dish with the crushed crackers, add the Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. **Set Up Breading Station:** Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the flour. In the second dish, whisk together the egg and milk. In the third dish, place the cracker mixture.
5. **Bread Chicken:** Dredge each chicken tender in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it in the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat it thoroughly with the cracker mixture, pressing gently to help it adhere.
6. **Bake or Fry:**
* **Baking:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.
* **Frying:** Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken tenders in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken tenders from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
7. **Serve:** Serve the chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, ranch dressing, or honey mustard.
## Recipe 3: Aldi’s “Larabar” Inspired Date and Nut Bars
These homemade energy bars are inspired by Larabars and use Aldi’s dates and nuts to create a healthy and satisfying snack. You can customize the flavor by adding different nuts, seeds, or dried fruits.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup Aldi’s Medjool dates, pitted
* 1 cup Aldi’s raw almonds (or other nuts of your choice)
* 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 tablespoon water (if needed)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Dates:** If the dates are dry, soak them in warm water for 10-15 minutes to soften them. Drain well.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** Place the dates, almonds, shredded coconut (if using), and salt in a food processor.
3. **Process:** Process until the mixture is finely ground and starts to stick together. If the mixture is too dry, add the water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.
4. **Shape Bars:** Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture to the pan and press it down firmly and evenly. Alternatively, you can roll the mixture into balls or form it into bars using your hands.
5. **Chill:** Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the bars to firm up.
6. **Cut and Serve:** Cut the bars into desired sizes and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
## Recipe 4: Aldi’s “Ritz” Cracker Chicken Casserole
This comforting casserole uses Aldi’s butter crackers (usually from the Benton’s brand) as a topping for a creamy chicken filling. It’s a simple and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups cooked Kirkwood chicken, shredded
* 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
* 1/2 cup milk
* 1/2 cup frozen mixed vegetables, thawed
* 1/4 cup chopped onion
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 sleeve Aldi’s Benton’s butter crackers (or similar), crushed
* 2 tablespoons melted butter
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. **Combine Filling Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, mixed vegetables, onion, and pepper. Mix well.
3. **Pour into Dish:** Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. **Prepare Cracker Topping:** In a separate bowl, combine the crushed butter crackers and melted butter. Mix well.
5. **Top Casserole:** Sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the chicken mixture.
6. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the topping is golden brown.
7. **Serve:** Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
## Recipe 5: Aldi’s “Cool Ranch Doritos” Inspired Chicken Salad
This recipe adds a burst of flavor to a classic chicken salad by incorporating Aldi’s Cool Ranch flavored tortilla chips (usually from the Clancy’s brand). It’s a fun and flavorful twist on a lunchtime staple.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups cooked Kirkwood chicken, diced
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 1/4 cup sour cream
* 1/4 cup Aldi’s Clancy’s Cool Ranch tortilla chips, crushed
* 1/4 cup chopped celery
* 1/4 cup chopped red onion
* 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, mayonnaise, sour cream, crushed tortilla chips, celery, red onion, and dill (if using). Mix well.
2. **Season:** Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Chill:** Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. **Serve:** Serve the chicken salad on bread, crackers, or lettuce cups. Enjoy!
## Recipe 6: Aldi’s “Nilla Wafers” Banana Pudding
This classic dessert uses Aldi’s vanilla wafers (often from the Benton’s brand) as a base for layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and whipped cream. It’s a simple and satisfying treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box Aldi’s Benton’s vanilla wafers (or similar)
* 2 boxes (3.4 ounces each) instant vanilla pudding mix
* 4 cups milk
* 3-4 ripe bananas, sliced
* 1 container (8 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed (or homemade whipped cream)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Pudding:** In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk until smooth. Let stand for 5 minutes to thicken.
2. **Layer Ingredients:** In a large bowl or trifle dish, layer the vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and pudding. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of pudding.
3. **Top with Whipped Cream:** Spread the whipped topping evenly over the top layer of pudding.
4. **Chill:** Cover the bowl or dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the wafers to soften.
5. **Serve:** Serve the banana pudding chilled. Enjoy!
## Recipe 7: Aldi’s “Cheez-Its” Inspired Cheese Crackers
Making these crackers from scratch allows for adjusting the flavor profile and using quality ingredients. While it requires a bit more effort, the result is a delicious and satisfying snack that rivals the original, using Aldi’s cheese.
**Ingredients:**
* 8 ounces (2 cups) shredded Aldi’s cheddar cheese, sharp or mild
* 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 2-4 tablespoons ice water
* Optional: paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper for extra flavor.
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Cheese and Butter:** In a food processor, combine the shredded cheese and cold butter. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. **Add Flour and Salt:** Add the flour and salt to the food processor. Pulse until just combined.
3. **Add Water:** With the food processor running, gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together into a ball. Be careful not to overmix.
4. **Shape and Chill:** Flatten the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. **Preheat and Roll:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thin sheet, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. **Cut Crackers:** Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut the dough into small squares, about 1 inch in size. You can also use a small cookie cutter to create different shapes.
7. **Poke Holes:** Use a toothpick or skewer to poke a hole in the center of each cracker. This will help prevent them from puffing up during baking.
8. **Bake:** Transfer the crackers to the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown around the edges. Watch them carefully, as they can burn easily.
9. **Cool:** Let the crackers cool completely on the baking sheet before serving. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
## Recipe 8: Aldi’s “Thin Mints” Inspired Chocolate Mint Cookies
These cookies capture the essence of Thin Mints using Aldi’s ingredients. The key is a good quality chocolate and peppermint extract to achieve that signature minty flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
* 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
* 1 Goldhen egg
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
* 1 bag (12 ounces) Aldi’s dark chocolate chips
* 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. **Cream Butter and Sugars:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. **Add Egg and Extracts:** Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until well combined.
4. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. **Chill Dough:** Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
6. **Preheat and Roll:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thin sheet, about 1/8 inch thick.
7. **Cut Cookies:** Use a round cookie cutter (about 2 inches in diameter) to cut out cookies.
8. **Bake:** Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set.
9. **Cool:** Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.
10. **Melt Chocolate:** In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips and vegetable shortening together, stirring until smooth.
11. **Dip Cookies:** Dip each cookie in the melted chocolate, coating it completely. Place the dipped cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
12. **Chill to Set:** Refrigerate the cookies for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
13. **Serve:** Serve the cookies chilled. Enjoy!
## Recipe 9: Aldi’s “Oreos” Inspired Chocolate Sandwich Cookies
This recipe allows you to recreate classic Oreo cookies using Aldi’s cocoa powder and a simple vanilla cream filling. You can adjust the sweetness of the filling to your preference.
**Ingredients:**
*For the Cookies:*
* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup Aldi’s unsweetened cocoa powder
* 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1 Goldhen egg
* 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
*For the Filling:*
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 3 cups powdered sugar
* 2 tablespoons milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Dry Cookie Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
2. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. **Add Egg and Vanilla:** Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. **Chill Dough:** Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
6. **Preheat and Roll:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thin sheet, about 1/8 inch thick.
7. **Cut Cookies:** Use a round cookie cutter (about 2 inches in diameter) to cut out cookies.
8. **Bake:** Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set.
9. **Cool:** Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.
10. **Prepare Filling:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
11. **Assemble Cookies:** Spread a generous amount of filling on the bottom of one cookie and top with another cookie, pressing gently to adhere.
12. **Serve:** Serve the cookies immediately or store them in an airtight container.
## Recipe 10: Aldi’s “Pop-Tarts” Inspired Toaster Pastries
These homemade toaster pastries are a fun project using Aldi’s ingredients. You can customize the filling with different jams, fruit preserves, or even chocolate spread.
**Ingredients:**
*For the Dough:*
* 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
* 6-8 tablespoons ice water
*For the Filling:*
* 1/2 cup Aldi’s fruit preserves (such as strawberry, raspberry, or blueberry)
*For the Icing (Optional):
* 1 cup powdered sugar
* 2-3 tablespoons milk
* Sprinkles (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Dry Dough Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. **Cut in Butter:** Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. **Add Water:** Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together into a ball. Be careful not to overmix.
4. **Chill Dough:** Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disk, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. **Preheat and Roll:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to a thin rectangle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. **Cut Rectangles:** Cut the dough into even rectangles (about 3×4 inches in size).
7. **Add Filling:** Spread a thin layer of fruit preserves on half of the rectangles, leaving a small border around the edges.
8. **Top with Dough:** Roll out the second disk of dough and cut it into the same size rectangles. Place these rectangles on top of the filled rectangles, sealing the edges by pressing them together with a fork.
9. **Poke Holes:** Use a toothpick or skewer to poke a few holes in the top of each pastry.
10. **Bake:** Transfer the pastries to the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
11. **Cool:** Let the pastries cool completely on the baking sheet before icing.
12. **Prepare Icing (Optional):** In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth.
13. **Ice Pastries:** Drizzle the icing over the cooled pastries and sprinkle with sprinkles, if desired.
14. **Serve:** Serve the toaster pastries warm or at room temperature.
## Tips for Successful Aldi Copycat Cooking
* **Read Reviews:** Before buying an Aldi dupe, check online reviews to see what other people think of the taste and quality.
* **Taste Test:** Do a side-by-side taste test of the Aldi product and the name-brand version to see if you can tell the difference.
* **Adjust Recipes:** You may need to adjust recipes slightly to account for any differences in flavor or texture between the Aldi product and the name-brand version.
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment:** Aldi’s products offer a great way to experiment in the kitchen without breaking the bank. Get creative and try new flavor combinations!
* **Check the Ingredients:** Compare the ingredient lists of the Aldi product and the name-brand version to see if there are any significant differences.
* **Consider Sales and Weekly Ads:** Aldi frequently has sales and special offers on its products. Check the weekly ad to see what’s on sale before you shop.
## Final Thoughts
Aldi’s copycat products provide a fantastic opportunity to enjoy your favorite foods at a fraction of the cost. By using these affordable alternatives in your cooking, you can create delicious and satisfying meals without sacrificing quality. So, next time you’re at Aldi, be sure to stock up on their best dupes and get ready to unleash your culinary creativity!