Trader Joe’s Holiday Hacks: Employee-Approved Recipes & Festive Treats
The holidays are a whirlwind of festive cheer, family gatherings, and, of course, delicious food. But let’s be honest, pulling off a memorable holiday spread can be stressful. That’s where Trader Joe’s comes in. With its unique and seasonal products, Trader Joe’s offers a shortcut to culinary brilliance. To get the inside scoop on the best holiday products and how to use them, we’ve consulted the true experts: Trader Joe’s employees. These crew members have tasted it all and know how to create easy and impressive dishes that will wow your guests without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen.
This guide features employee-approved recipes using Trader Joe’s most popular holiday items, from appetizers to desserts. Get ready to elevate your holiday game with these simple yet sophisticated creations.
## Appetizers to Impress
Kick off your holiday feast with appetizers that are both flavorful and effortless. These recipes utilize Trader Joe’s unique offerings to create impressive starters that will tantalize your guests’ taste buds.
**1. Cranberry Brie Bites**
This classic combination of sweet and savory is always a crowd-pleaser, and Trader Joe’s makes it incredibly easy to execute.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Trader Joe’s Puff Pastry Sheets
* 1 wheel Trader Joe’s Brie Cheese
* 1 jar Trader Joe’s Cranberry Sauce (or Cranberry Orange Marmalade for an extra citrusy kick)
* Optional: Chopped pecans or walnuts for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Thaw the Trader Joe’s Puff Pastry Sheets according to package directions. This usually takes about 30-40 minutes. Gently unfold the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface.
2. **Cut the Pastry:** Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut the puff pastry into small squares (approximately 2×2 inches). You should get around 24-36 squares per sheet.
3. **Prepare the Brie:** Cut the Brie cheese into small cubes, approximately the same size as your pastry squares.
4. **Assemble the Bites:** Place a puff pastry square on the prepared baking sheet. Top with a cube of Brie cheese and a small spoonful of Trader Joe’s Cranberry Sauce. If desired, sprinkle with chopped nuts.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the Brie is melted and bubbly. Watch closely to prevent burning.
6. **Cool and Serve:** Let the Cranberry Brie Bites cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a serving platter. Serve warm.
**Employee Tip:** “I like to add a tiny sprig of rosemary on top before baking for a festive touch and a hint of earthy flavor.” – Sarah, Trader Joe’s Crew Member
**2. Butternut Squash & Ricotta Crostini**
This sophisticated appetizer is packed with flavor and texture, showcasing the best of fall produce. Trader Joe’s pre-cut butternut squash makes it a breeze to prepare.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 bag Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash (cubed)
* 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
* 1 container Trader Joe’s Ricotta Cheese
* Olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Balsamic glaze for drizzling, fresh sage leaves for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Roast the Butternut Squash:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
2. **Toast the Baguette:** While the butternut squash is roasting, brush the baguette slices with olive oil and toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Alternatively, you can toast them in a toaster oven.
3. **Assemble the Crostini:** Spread a generous layer of ricotta cheese on each toasted baguette slice. Top with a spoonful of roasted butternut squash.
4. **Finish and Serve:** Drizzle with balsamic glaze (if using) and garnish with fresh sage leaves (if using). Serve immediately.
**Employee Tip:** “A sprinkle of Trader Joe’s Everything But the Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend adds a surprising savory note that complements the sweetness of the butternut squash perfectly.” – Mark, Trader Joe’s Crew Member
**3. Spiced Pecans & Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates**
These sweet and savory bites are incredibly easy to make and offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Trader Joe’s Medjool dates are particularly plump and delicious.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Trader Joe’s Medjool Dates
* 1 log Trader Joe’s Goat Cheese
* 1 bag Trader Joe’s Spiced Pecans (or your favorite candied pecans)
* Optional: Honey for drizzling
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dates:** Gently slice each date lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through. Remove the pit.
2. **Stuff the Dates:** Fill each date with a small amount of goat cheese. Crumble or chop the spiced pecans and sprinkle them over the goat cheese.
3. **Serve:** Arrange the stuffed dates on a serving platter. Drizzle with honey, if desired. Serve immediately or chill for later.
**Employee Tip:** “I like to use Trader Joe’s Honey Goat Cheese for an extra layer of sweetness. It’s also delicious with a sprinkle of sea salt to balance the flavors.” – Emily, Trader Joe’s Crew Member
## Main Course Marvels
Impress your guests with main courses that are both elegant and surprisingly simple, thanks to Trader Joe’s convenient and flavorful products.
**1. Turkey & Stuffing Wellingtons**
Individual Wellingtons elevate the traditional Thanksgiving or Christmas meal into something truly special. Trader Joe’s pre-made puff pastry makes this recipe surprisingly easy.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Trader Joe’s Puff Pastry Sheets
* Cooked turkey breast, diced or shredded
* Trader Joe’s Stuffing Mix, prepared according to package directions
* 1 jar Trader Joe’s Cranberry Sauce (or Cranberry Orange Marmalade)
* 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
* Optional: Gravy for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Thaw the Trader Joe’s Puff Pastry Sheets according to package directions. Gently unfold the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface.
2. **Cut the Pastry:** Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut the puff pastry into squares or circles (approximately 5-6 inches in diameter). You’ll need two pieces of pastry for each Wellington – one for the base and one for the top.
3. **Assemble the Wellingtons:** Place one pastry square/circle on the prepared baking sheet. Layer with a spoonful of prepared stuffing, followed by a generous portion of diced turkey and a dollop of cranberry sauce.
4. **Top and Seal:** Place another pastry square/circle on top of the filling. Crimp the edges of the pastry together to seal the Wellington. You can use a fork to create a decorative edge. Cut a small slit in the top of the pastry to allow steam to escape.
5. **Egg Wash:** Brush the top of each Wellington with the beaten egg. This will give it a golden-brown, glossy finish.
6. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
7. **Cool and Serve:** Let the Turkey & Stuffing Wellingtons cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a serving platter. Serve warm with gravy, if desired.
**Employee Tip:** “I like to add a layer of Trader Joe’s Brie cheese between the stuffing and the turkey for an extra creamy and decadent flavor.” – David, Trader Joe’s Crew Member
**2. Balsamic Glazed Salmon with Roasted Brussels Sprouts**
This elegant and healthy main course is perfect for a holiday dinner party. Trader Joe’s fresh salmon and pre-cut Brussels sprouts make it incredibly easy to prepare.
**Ingredients:**
* Trader Joe’s Salmon Fillets (skin on or off, your preference)
* 1 bag Trader Joe’s Brussels Sprouts, trimmed and halved
* Olive oil
* Balsamic glaze
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Trader Joe’s Everything But the Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Roast the Brussels Sprouts:** Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.
3. **Prepare the Salmon:** While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper. You can also sprinkle with Trader Joe’s Everything But the Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend for added flavor.
4. **Cook the Salmon:** Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin-on fillets) in the hot skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through. Alternatively, you can bake the salmon in the oven alongside the Brussels sprouts for the last 10-12 minutes of cooking time.
5. **Glaze and Serve:** Drizzle the cooked salmon fillets with balsamic glaze. Serve immediately with the roasted Brussels sprouts.
**Employee Tip:** “A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the salmon before serving brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity.” – Jessica, Trader Joe’s Crew Member
**3. Festive Risotto with Butternut Squash and Sage**
This creamy and comforting risotto is a vegetarian delight that’s perfect for a holiday gathering. Trader Joe’s pre-cooked risotto makes this recipe surprisingly quick and easy.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Trader Joe’s Fully Cooked Risotto (Butternut Squash flavor recommended, but any flavor will work)
* 1 bag Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash (cubed)
* Fresh sage leaves
* Olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Roast the Butternut Squash:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
2. **Prepare the Sage:** While the butternut squash is roasting, heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil. Add the sage leaves and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until crispy. Be careful not to burn them.
3. **Heat the Risotto:** Heat the Trader Joe’s Fully Cooked Risotto according to package directions. This usually involves microwaving or simmering on the stovetop.
4. **Combine and Serve:** Stir the roasted butternut squash into the heated risotto. Top with the crispy sage leaves. Serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
**Employee Tip:** “For a richer flavor, sauté some finely chopped shallots in olive oil before adding the risotto to the pan. It adds a layer of depth that really elevates the dish.” – Michael, Trader Joe’s Crew Member
## Decadent Desserts
No holiday meal is complete without a show-stopping dessert. These recipes utilize Trader Joe’s sweet treats to create unforgettable endings to your festive feast.
**1. Peppermint Joe-Joe’s Bark**
This easy and festive bark is perfect for gifting or serving as a holiday treat. Trader Joe’s Peppermint Joe-Joe’s cookies are the star of the show.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 bag Trader Joe’s Peppermint Joe-Joe’s Cookies
* 1 bag Trader Joe’s Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (or Dark Chocolate Chips)
* Optional: White chocolate chips, crushed peppermint candies
**Instructions:**
1. **Melt the Chocolate:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
2. **Assemble the Bark:** Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the prepared baking sheet.
3. **Add the Joe-Joe’s:** Crush the Peppermint Joe-Joe’s cookies into smaller pieces. Sprinkle the crushed cookies over the melted chocolate. Press gently to adhere.
4. **Add Toppings (Optional):** If desired, melt white chocolate chips and drizzle them over the bark. Sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies.
5. **Chill:** Refrigerate the bark for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
6. **Break and Serve:** Break the bark into pieces and serve.
**Employee Tip:** “I like to use a combination of dark and milk chocolate for a more complex flavor. And don’t be afraid to get creative with the toppings! Crushed pretzels, chopped nuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt can add a delicious twist.” – Lauren, Trader Joe’s Crew Member
**2. Gingerbread Cookie Truffles**
These bite-sized truffles are packed with holiday flavor. Trader Joe’s Gingerbread men and women cookies make them easy to prepare.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box Trader Joe’s Gingerbread Men & Women Cookies
* 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1 bag Trader Joe’s White Chocolate Chips (or milk chocolate chips)
* Optional: Sprinkles for decoration
**Instructions:**
1. **Crumble the Cookies:** Crumble the Gingerbread cookies into fine crumbs. You can use a food processor or place the cookies in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In a mixing bowl, combine the cookie crumbs and softened cream cheese. Mix well until a dough forms.
3. **Roll into Truffles:** Roll the dough into small balls (approximately 1 inch in diameter).
4. **Melt the Chocolate:** Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
5. **Dip the Truffles:** Dip each truffle into the melted white chocolate, coating completely. Place the dipped truffles on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. **Decorate (Optional):** Sprinkle with sprinkles or other decorations while the chocolate is still wet.
7. **Chill:** Refrigerate the truffles for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
8. **Serve:** Serve chilled.
**Employee Tip:** “A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg added to the cookie crumb mixture enhances the gingerbread flavor. You can also drizzle the finished truffles with melted dark chocolate for a beautiful presentation.” – Ryan, Trader Joe’s Crew Member
**3. Panettone Bread Pudding**
This comforting and decadent bread pudding is the perfect way to use up leftover Trader Joe’s Panettone during the holidays.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Trader Joe’s Panettone
* 4 large eggs
* 2 cups milk (or half-and-half for a richer pudding)
* 1/2 cup sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* Optional: Raisins, dried cranberries, chopped nuts
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. **Prepare the Panettone:** Cut the Panettone into 1-inch cubes. Spread the cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. This helps prevent the bread pudding from becoming soggy.
3. **Whisk the Custard:** In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
4. **Combine Ingredients:** Place the toasted Panettone cubes in the greased baking dish. Sprinkle with raisins, dried cranberries, and/or chopped nuts, if desired. Pour the custard mixture over the Panettone, making sure all the bread is soaked. Gently press down on the bread to ensure it is submerged in the custard.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the bread pudding is set and golden brown on top. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
6. **Cool and Serve:** Let the Panettone Bread Pudding cool slightly before serving. Serve warm, plain or with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
**Employee Tip:** “I like to add a splash of rum or brandy to the custard for an extra layer of holiday warmth. A drizzle of caramel sauce over the finished bread pudding is also a delicious touch.” – Ashley, Trader Joe’s Crew Member
## Beyond the Recipes: More Holiday Hacks from Trader Joe’s Crew Members
* **Elevate your cheese board:** Trader Joe’s has an incredible selection of cheeses, crackers, and spreads. Ask a crew member for recommendations on pairings.
* **Simplify your sides:** Trader Joe’s pre-cut vegetables and frozen side dishes can save you tons of time in the kitchen.
* **Spice up your cocktails:** Trader Joe’s holiday-themed beverages, like their Spiced Cider and Eggnog, make festive cocktails a breeze.
* **Don’t forget the hostess gifts:** Trader Joe’s has a great selection of affordable and thoughtful gifts, from candles to chocolates to plants.
By following these employee-approved recipes and tips, you can create a memorable and stress-free holiday celebration. So head to your local Trader Joe’s, stock up on these amazing products, and get ready to impress your guests with your culinary skills (or at least your savvy shopping skills!). Happy Holidays!