Trader Joe’s Holiday Heroes: Recipes Inspired by Crew Member Favorites
The holiday season is upon us, and that means it’s time for Trader Joe’s to shine! Known for its unique and delicious products, Trader Joe’s becomes a veritable wonderland of festive flavors and ingredients during the holidays. But with so many options, where do you even begin? We’ve turned to the real experts: Trader Joe’s crew members! They’re the ones who taste-test everything, offer recommendations, and know the store inside and out. We’ve gathered some of their top holiday product picks and crafted some incredible recipes to help you make the most of your Trader Joe’s holiday haul.
This isn’t just a list of products; it’s a culinary journey guided by the taste buds of the people who stock the shelves. Get ready to be inspired and create some truly memorable dishes this holiday season!
## The Star Players: Crew Member Approved Holiday Ingredients
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s highlight some of the key ingredients that Trader Joe’s crew members rave about:
* **Panettone:** This classic Italian sweet bread is a holiday staple. Its light, airy texture and subtle citrus notes make it incredibly versatile.
* **Stollen Bites:** A miniature version of the traditional German fruit bread, these bites are packed with dried fruit, nuts, and marzipan.
* **Candy Cane Joe-Joe’s:** A festive twist on the classic Joe-Joe’s cookies, these sandwich cookies are filled with a creamy peppermint filling.
* **Speculoos Cookie Butter:** This spiced cookie spread is a cult favorite for a reason. Its warm, gingerbread-like flavor adds depth to any dish.
* **Cranberry Sauce (Canned and Fresh):** Trader Joe’s offers both canned and fresh cranberry sauce options, each with its own unique appeal.
* **Butternut Squash Ravioli:** These sweet and savory ravioli are a quick and easy way to add a touch of autumn to your meal.
* **Turkey & Stuffing en Croute:** A ready-made puff pastry filled with turkey and stuffing, perfect for a small gathering or a hassle-free holiday dinner.
* **Jingle Jangle:** A delightful mix of chocolate-covered pretzels, popcorn, Joe-Joe’s cookies, and other treats.
* **Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cranberry Stuffing:** A flavorful and convenient main course option.
* **Holiday Hash:** A blend of sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, cranberries, and onions, perfect as a side dish.
* **Egg Nog:** Trader Joe’s offers a variety of egg nog options, from classic to light to soy-based.
* **Gingerbread Coffee:** A seasonal coffee blend with warm gingerbread spices.
Now, let’s get cooking!
## Recipe 1: Panettone French Toast Casserole
This decadent French toast casserole is the perfect centerpiece for your holiday brunch. The Panettone adds a touch of sweetness and a light, airy texture that will impress your guests.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Trader Joe’s Panettone, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 8 large eggs
* 2 cups milk
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* Pinch of salt
* 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
* Maple syrup, for serving
* Fresh berries, for garnish
* Powdered sugar, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Panettone:** Cut the Panettone into 1-inch cubes. You can leave it out overnight to dry out slightly, which will help it absorb the custard better.
2. **Make the Custard:** In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
3. **Assemble the Casserole:** Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the Panettone cubes evenly in the dish. Pour the custard mixture over the Panettone, making sure to saturate all the cubes. Gently press down on the Panettone to help it absorb the custard.
4. **Add Nuts (Optional):** Sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts over the top of the casserole.
5. **Refrigerate:** Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the Panettone to fully absorb the custard.
6. **Bake:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap from the casserole dish and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and set in the center. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
7. **Cool and Serve:** Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Cut into squares and serve warm with maple syrup, fresh berries, and a dusting of powdered sugar.
**Crew Member Tip:** “I love adding a little orange zest to the custard for an extra burst of citrus flavor that complements the Panettone perfectly!” – Sarah, Trader Joe’s Crew Member
## Recipe 2: Speculoos Cookie Butter Stuffed Stollen Bites
These little bites are an explosion of holiday flavor! The Stollen Bites provide a chewy, fruity base, while the Speculoos Cookie Butter adds a warm, spiced sweetness.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Trader Joe’s Stollen Bites
* 1 jar Trader Joe’s Speculoos Cookie Butter
* Powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Stollen Bites:** Gently slice each Stollen Bite in half horizontally, creating a top and bottom piece.
2. **Fill the Bites:** Spread a generous amount of Speculoos Cookie Butter onto the bottom half of each Stollen Bite.
3. **Assemble:** Place the top half of the Stollen Bite back on top of the Cookie Butter.
4. **Dust with Powdered Sugar:** Dust the assembled Stollen Bites with powdered sugar.
5. **Serve:** Arrange the Stollen Bites on a platter and serve immediately. These are best enjoyed fresh.
**Crew Member Tip:** “For an extra touch of elegance, drizzle melted white chocolate over the stuffed Stollen Bites and sprinkle with crushed gingerbread cookies.” – Mark, Trader Joe’s Crew Member
## Recipe 3: Candy Cane Joe-Joe’s Peppermint Bark
This easy peppermint bark is a festive and delicious treat that’s perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself. The Candy Cane Joe-Joe’s add a delightful crunch and peppermint flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 bag Trader Joe’s Candy Cane Joe-Joe’s, crushed
* 12 ounces white chocolate, chopped
* 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
* 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Joe-Joe’s:** Place the Candy Cane Joe-Joe’s in a resealable bag and crush them using a rolling pin or mallet. Set aside.
2. **Melt the White Chocolate:** Melt the white chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. If using the microwave, be careful not to overheat the chocolate. Stir in the peppermint extract, if using.
3. **Spread the White Chocolate:** Pour the melted white chocolate onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread it into an even layer about 1/4 inch thick.
4. **Sprinkle with Joe-Joe’s:** Immediately sprinkle the crushed Candy Cane Joe-Joe’s over the melted white chocolate.
5. **Melt the Semi-Sweet Chocolate:** Melt the semi-sweet chocolate in a separate double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
6. **Drizzle the Semi-Sweet Chocolate:** Drizzle the melted semi-sweet chocolate over the white chocolate and crushed Joe-Joe’s. You can create swirls or patterns using a knife or toothpick.
7. **Chill:** Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes, or until the bark is firm.
8. **Break into Pieces:** Once the bark is firm, break it into irregular pieces and serve.
**Crew Member Tip:** “I like to add a pinch of sea salt to the bark before it sets to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.” – Emily, Trader Joe’s Crew Member
## Recipe 4: Butternut Squash Ravioli with Brown Butter Sage Sauce
This elegant and flavorful dish is surprisingly easy to make using Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Ravioli. The brown butter sage sauce adds a nutty and aromatic touch that elevates the ravioli to a whole new level.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package Trader Joe’s Butternut Squash Ravioli
* 4 tablespoons butter
* 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Toasted pine nuts for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Ravioli:** Cook the Butternut Squash Ravioli according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. **Make the Brown Butter Sage Sauce:** While the ravioli is cooking, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Continue to cook the butter, swirling the pan occasionally, until it turns a nutty brown color and smells fragrant. Be careful not to burn the butter.
3. **Add Sage:** Add the sage leaves to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute, or until they are crispy and fragrant.
4. **Combine:** Add the cooked ravioli to the skillet with the brown butter sage sauce. Toss gently to coat the ravioli with the sauce.
5. **Serve:** Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts (optional). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
**Crew Member Tip:** “A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens up the sauce and adds a touch of acidity that complements the sweetness of the butternut squash.” – David, Trader Joe’s Crew Member
## Recipe 5: Cranberry Brie Bites
These festive appetizers are quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of creamy brie, tart cranberry sauce, and flaky puff pastry is simply irresistible.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 sheet Trader Joe’s Puff Pastry, thawed
* 4 ounces brie cheese, cut into small cubes
* 1/2 cup Trader Joe’s Cranberry Sauce (canned or fresh)
* 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
* Optional: Chopped pecans or walnuts for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Prepare Puff Pastry:** Unfold the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Using a pizza cutter or knife, cut the puff pastry into small squares (about 2×2 inches).
3. **Assemble Bites:** Place a cube of brie cheese in the center of each puff pastry square. Top with a spoonful of cranberry sauce.
4. **Fold and Seal:** Fold the corners of the puff pastry square towards the center, pinching them together to seal. You can also fold the square in half diagonally to create a triangle shape.
5. **Egg Wash:** Brush the top of each bite with the beaten egg.
6. **Add Garnish (Optional):** Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top of the bites.
7. **Bake:** Place the bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. **Serve:** Let the bites cool slightly before serving. These are best served warm.
**Crew Member Tip:** “For a savory twist, add a small piece of prosciutto to each bite along with the brie and cranberry sauce.” – Jessica, Trader Joe’s Crew Member
## Recipe 6: Jingle Jangle Snack Mix
This is not really a recipe, but more of an upgrade of a classic! Trader Joe’s Jingle Jangle already offers a great mix of sweet and salty treats, but we can make it even more festive.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 container of Trader Joe’s Jingle Jangle
* 1 cup of holiday themed sprinkles
* 1/2 cup of powdered sugar
* Optional: extra pretzels, marshmallows, or nuts
**Instructions:**
1. **Upgrade the Jingle Jangle:** Open the Jingle Jangle container and inspect the content. Feel free to add any extras like more pretzels, marshmallows, or any nut you might prefer.
2. **Add Festive sprinkles:** Pour the holiday sprinkles into the container and mix carefully.
3. **Dust with Sugar:** Dust with powdered sugar.
4. **Serve:** Serve in a festive bowl.
**Crew Member Tip:** “Melt some chocolate and toss the mix, then put it in the fridge for 15 minutes. It’s amazing” – John, Trader Joe’s Crew Member
## Recipe 7: Holiday Hash Breakfast Scramble
This is a quick and easy way to use the Holiday Hash to make a super flavorful breakfast.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 package of Trader Joe’s Holiday Hash
* 4 eggs
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the hash:** Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the Holiday Hash and cook until heated through and slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. **Scramble the eggs:** In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, and pepper.
3. **Combine:** Pour the eggs over the Holiday Hash in the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are set.
4. **Serve:** Serve immediately, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and avocado, if desired.
**Crew Member Tip:** “Add a little chorizo or sausage to the scramble for extra protein and flavor.” – Ashley, Trader Joe’s Crew Member
## Recipe 8: Gingerbread Coffee Affogato
A simple but elegant dessert using the Gingerbread Coffee.
**Ingredients:**
* Trader Joe’s Gingerbread Coffee, brewed strong
* Vanilla ice cream
* Optional: Gingerbread cookies for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Coffee:** Brew a strong cup of Trader Joe’s Gingerbread Coffee.
2. **Assemble:** Place a scoop or two of vanilla ice cream in a mug or glass.
3. **Pour Coffee:** Pour the hot Gingerbread Coffee over the ice cream.
4. **Garnish:** Garnish with a gingerbread cookie, if desired.
5. **Serve:** Serve immediately and enjoy as the ice cream melts into the coffee.
**Crew Member Tip:** “Add a shot of coffee liqueur for an extra kick!” – Michael, Trader Joe’s Crew Member
## Recipe 9: Turkey & Stuffing en Croute Bites
Take the already delicious Trader Joe’s Turkey & Stuffing en Croute and make individual appetizers!
**Ingredients:**
* 1 Trader Joe’s Turkey & Stuffing en Croute
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven according to the instructions on the Turkey & Stuffing en Croute packaging.
2. **Cut en Croute:** Carefully slice the Turkey & Stuffing en Croute into small bite-sized pieces. About 1 inch square.
3. **Bake:** Place the bite-sized pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. **Bake:** Bake for the suggested time (or until golden brown and heated through).
5. **Serve:** Let cool slightly and serve.
**Crew Member Tip:** “Serve with a side of cranberry sauce for dipping!” – David, Trader Joe’s Crew Member
## Recipe 10: Pork Tenderloin Leftover Sandwiches
Use leftover Pork Tenderloin to make a delicious sandwich the next day!
**Ingredients:**
* Leftover Trader Joe’s Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cranberry Stuffing, sliced
* Your favorite bread or rolls
* Mayonnaise or mustard
* Lettuce, tomato, or other desired toppings
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Bread:** Slice open your favorite bread or rolls.
2. **Spread Condiments:** Spread mayonnaise or mustard on the bread.
3. **Add Pork:** Layer slices of the leftover Trader Joe’s Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cranberry Stuffing on the bread.
4. **Add Toppings:** Add lettuce, tomato, or any other desired toppings.
5. **Serve:** Close the sandwich and serve immediately.
**Crew Member Tip:** “Use cranberry sauce instead of mayonnaise for extra moisture and festive flavor!” – Sarah, Trader Joe’s Crew Member
## Final Thoughts
These recipes are just a starting point. Feel free to get creative and experiment with other Trader Joe’s holiday products. The possibilities are endless! Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the flavors of the season.
Remember to ask your local Trader Joe’s crew members for their recommendations. They are a wealth of knowledge and are always happy to help you find the perfect ingredients for your holiday meals. Happy cooking and happy holidays!