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From Sweet to Savory: A Guide to Shopping All Things Pumpkin At Trader Joe’s This Fall

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UCLA chapter.

If you are like me, then snacking is a serious business. I do it when I am nervous, anxious or just bored. Which is why I am going to take full advantage of Trader Joe’s pumpkin snacks this fall season. Pumpkin tortilla chips that are sprinkled with cinnamon also contain pumpkin seeds for extra texture. If you are more into popcorn, then you will love their two popcorn flavors for the season: Maple Sea Salt Kettle Corn and Candy Corn Popcorn. These salty and sweet pairings are perfect for those who enjoy hot kettle corn bags from festivals.

Fret not, your dull fall mornings have been saved! The Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Bagels paired with the luscious Pumpkin Cream Cheese Spread are perfect for those frantic mornings when you are late to the Bruin Bus. For an even quicker meal, pop a Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Waffle in the toaster while you are finishing up your morning routine. But if you are not into waffles, which is a controversial opinion, then maybe you will be more into the Pumpkin Pancake (and Waffle!) Mix. For those with dietary restrictions it also comes in a Gluten-Free version!

For people who like to keep their mornings a bit more Parisian or calm, there are Pumpkin Biscottis made with pumpkin puree and spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg. If you have sensitive teeth or enjoy more cakey textures, then you will enjoy the Spiced Pumpkin Madeline Cookies! Pair either one of them with the fragrant light roast Autumn Maple Coffee.

Once midterms season hits, I know I am going to need all of the comfort food I can find to get me through such a tumultous time. When that happens I am going straight for the Pumpkin Rolls that come with a pumpkin glaze. If you are more into cookies then definitely try the Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookie Mix. They are perfect for those nights when you are feeling generous to your roommates, or just yourself!

Fall is also a time of indulgence of all that the land has to offer. When I think of indulgence, the few things that come to mind are desserts. This season Trader Joe’s has brought back their classic Pumpkin Cheesecake. This treat definitely gives pumpkin pie a run for its money. If you are more into cold treats in the fall, then you will want to give the Pumpkin Ice Cream a try. Not into pumpkin flavors as much? Don’t worry, there’s a Maple Ginger Cookie Swirl ice cream tub with your name on it!

If you enjoy a lighter dinner or lunch then you will want to give Trader Joe’s fall soups a try. The Autumnal Harvest soup is a delicious take on warm tomato soup with the surprise edition of pumpkin and butternut squash purees. Pair it with a homemade grilled cheese sandwhich! If you like thicker soups then you will love the Pumpkin Bisque which is a crowd favorite for any Trader Joe’s devotee. 

Trader Joe’s Sparkling Pumpkin Pie Spiced Ginger Brew is certainly a mouthful to say, but it is worth the sweet and surprisingly refreshing drink. The sparkling beverage can be compared to cream or butterschotch sodas. You can definitely make a cream soda float out of it. 

Between summer break ending and daylight savings, fall quarter tends to bring out the most exhaustion in us all. But just because we are tired does not mean we can’t make a classy, yet comforting dinner. Check out the Butternut Squash Ravioli, which can be easily cooked within 10 minutes! If you are not dairy free then I implore you to pair your ravioli or any pasta product with the Autumnal Harvest Alfredo, which is made with the nutty flavors of pureed pumpkin and butternut squash. If you like more traditional alfredo sauces then try the Mushroom Medley Alfredo Sauce made with blends of mushrooms, gruyere cheese and garlic.

Before I left, something orange caught my eye. It was Trader Joe’s own Pumpkin Spice Biocellulose Face Mask! This mousturizing facemask is packed with ingredients like orange peel and ginger root oils. It will be definitely be a life-saver for those dryer, windy days. Settle into the couch with some hot cocoa and this facemask to finish off a stressful day. Just try not to scare your roommates while wearing it!

UCLA 2020 Pamela is a Feature Writer for the UCLA Chapter of Her Campus. When Pamela isn't stressing over exams you can find her obsessing over skin care routines, reading POC-centered novels, and attempting to exercise. 
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