Trader Joe's A Trio of Flavored Honey is a new spin on a concept longtime shoppers might remember. Years ago, there was the Rainbow of Honey set, a collection of tiny jars featuring different floral varieties. It was adorable, giftable, and genuinely fun to taste side by side. This new trio takes a different approach. Instead of showcasing different floral sources, it focuses on three flavored honeys: ginger, lemon, and lavender.
Same idea of a set, very different execution.
Review
Each box contains three eight ounce jars of honey flavored with:
- Ginger
- Lemon
- Lavender
At ten ninety nine, the price is reasonable for the amount of honey you get, especially since flavored honeys tend to be more expensive. The jars are cute, well-sized, and easy to gift.
Let us start with the good news. The lemon and ginger honeys are pleasant and straightforward. Both flavors blend naturally with honey and feel like the kind of thing you reach for when you are under the weather or want something soothing in your tea. They are comforting flavors and work well for everyday use.
The lavender is where things got less exciting for me. Lavender can be a tricky flavor. When used sparingly, it is floral and calming. When used a little too boldly, it starts leaning into perfume territory. In this case, the lavender honey reminded me of dryer sheets. Not terrible, but not something I would willingly spoon onto toast or drizzle over yogurt. It felt more like a novelty flavor than a pantry staple.
Compared to the now discontinued Rainbow of Honey set, this trio is less interesting. The old set offered a true tasting experience of different varietal honeys. This new version focuses on flavored honeys, which feel more like specialty add ons than a collection you explore.
That said, three full sized jars for ten ninety nine is a good value. If you enjoy lemon or ginger honey in tea, or want something soothing for sick days, the set might still be worth picking up.
Pairing Suggestions for Each Honey Flavor
Lemon Honey Pairings
- Great in tea- Especially soothing for cold weather or sick days. Lemon honey melts beautifully into hot water and brings a bright citrus note that standard honey cannot.
- Drizzle over berries- Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries all pop with a little lemon infused sweetness.
- Use on pastries- Warm biscuits, scones, or even a slice of pound cake become instantly more interesting with a spoonful of lemon honey.
- Brighten yogurt or oatmeal- It adds a citrus lift without needing actual lemon zest.
- Pair with goat cheese- This is a perfect sweet tangy combo for cheese boards.
- Whisk into salad dressing- Lemon honey works well in a simple vinaigrette with olive oil and vinegar.
Ginger Honey Pairings
- Tea and warm drinks- Ginger honey is made to be stirred into tea. It adds warmth and spice that is soothing, especially if you are not feeling your best.
- Glaze for chicken or salmon- Mix with soy sauce or citrus juice for a quick, flavorful marinade.
- Serve with roasted carrots or sweet potatoes- The ginger adds heat and depth to naturally sweet vegetables.
- Top Greek yogurt- Ginger honey gives yogurt that warm sweet contrast that feels almost dessert like.
- Use on toast with butter- Simple but so satisfying, especially if you enjoy ginger.
- Stir into hot toddies- Ginger and honey already belong together. This just makes it easier.
Lavender Honey Pairings
Lavender honey is the trickiest because of the floral intensity, but here are the best uses if you enjoy it or want to tone it down.
- Drizzle over vanilla ice cream- The floral notes mellow when paired with creamy flavors and become more dessert like.
- Pair with mild cheeses- Brie and triple cream cheeses can balance lavender's perfumed edge.
- Use in baking- A small amount can be folded into scone or shortbread dough where the lavender becomes more subtle.
- Sweeten lemonade- The floral notes work surprisingly well with citrus and soften in a drink.
- Add to whipped cream- A tiny amount turns whipped cream into a floral topping that feels more gourmet.
- Use in lavender lattes- If you enjoy floral coffeehouse drinks, this works well as a finishing drizzle.
FAQs about Trader Joe's Trio of Flavored Honey
Below is a list of frequently asked questions about this product:
No. That set showcased floral varietal honeys. This one focuses on flavored honeys.
Ginger and lemon were the most enjoyable and versatile.
Yes. Three eight ounce jars for ten ninety nine is a solid value.
Final Thoughts
Trader Joe's A Trio of Flavored Honey is a decent value and a thoughtful idea, but it does not reach the charm or variety of the old Rainbow of Honey set. The ginger and lemon honeys are enjoyable and useful, especially for tea drinkers. The lavender, however, leans too perfumed for my taste and was not something I would reach for again.
If you love flavored honey or want something soothing for winter tea season, this could still be a worthwhile pickup. For everyone else, it is a nice idea but not an essential Trader Joe's find.
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