blog - BecomeBetty.com

Trader Joe's Lemon Shortbread Bar Mix

I love citrus flavors. In the summertime, I like them best in drinks. I like them in baked goods too. But I like these the least in baked goods that I require me to turn on my oven.

But this product hit the shelves, it went right into my cart and yes, my oven ended up being turned on in August. So my first complaint is as follows: there should be a no-bake bar for the summer months. No excuses.

Trader Joe's Lemon Shortbread Bar Mix

Tasting and review

Now, whenever I have picked up something that requires prep work I need to know if the directions are correct. And the directions need a little bit of work and revision.

The first step is assembling the shortbread. Butter and crust mix. My butter was room temperature. That's what I define as softened. Had it been melted there would have been a chance it would form into a dough.

If it is just softened it looks like a pie crust before the addition of ice water. It won't be a dough until that bit of hydration comes in. So I pressed it into my pan in all of its powdery glory. And docking it, or the pricking of a fork on such a flaky item didn't work. So I went forward anyway.

At this point, those were the only flaws I found. Otherwise, what came out of the oven after adding the sugary lemon egg mixture was quite pleasant and delicious. I wouldn't recommend using anything other than fresh lemons.

I don't own an 8 x 8-inch square pan. But simple math says the area of a 9 inch round pan is pretty darn close in size. Yes, middle school math came in handy on this one if you find yourself in the same situation.

But what finally came out of the oven was a treat that was full of lemon flavor. It was sweet and slightly tart. The shortbread cookie holds the lemon filling well.

If you add powdered sugar, then do so before serving as anything I added the night before had vanished in the magical way that powdered sugar always seems to.

Overall

For $2.99 it's not a bad mix to pick up and use when turning on your oven sounds like a good idea. My husband liked these and I did too.

Would I buy this again? Trader Joe's Lemon Shortbread Bar Mix was worth a try, but with pumpkin season around the corner, I'm not sure I'll be buying this again. Honestly, the Maple Pecan Bar was my favorite and I hope it will be back.

Product photos

The box of Trader Joe's Lemon Shortbread Bar Mix:

The nutritional information:

Trader Joe's Lemon Shortbread Bar Mix nutritional information

The ingredients:

Trader Joe's Lemon Shortbread Bar Mix ingredient list

How to prepare:

Out of the package you get:

Trader Joe's Lemon Shortbread Bar Mix what is in the box

After being cooked you get:

Trader Joe's Lemon Shortbread Bar Mix out of the oven — Not as pretty without the powdered sugar

I used my pizza cutter to slice into these bars:

Trader Joe's Lemon Shortbread Bar Mix fully baked

A closer look at the slices:

Trader Joe's Lemon Shortbread Bar Mix up close view

Want to see more items I've reviewed from Trader Joe's? Click on Thoughts & Reviews of Trader Joe's for a searchable list.

Did you try it? Let me know what you think in the comments section!

The Bottom Line

Don't forget to share your thoughts by going to the "user review" at the bottom of the box (click on the number of stars you believe this product deserves) and leave a comment below.

You can also FOLLOW ME on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest to see what I'm up to.

Trader Joe's Macaron Aux Framboises

Desserts seem to be what is hitting shelves more often than not this year. Trader Joe's Macaron Aux Framboises is a product that is new. But not new at the same time.

Taste

If you have tried Trader Joe's A Dozen Sweet Bites, you are already familiar with a miniaturized version of this dessert. And yes, that one was my favorite out of the bunch.

Not surprisingly, I was excited to find this. I was even more excited to have it in full size.

If you haven't had the Dozen Sweet Bites, no worries. You are getting a top and bottom layer of light and an airy almond cookie. This has the addition of some shredded coconut.

A key difference is a fact that this dessert can handle the addition of whole raspberries. They are well distributed ensuring every bite gets some of the tart flavors.

It's that contrast that makes things work here. Almond and raspberry pair well together. Add in the vanilla cream and each bite is just like a dessert you would get at a local pastry shop. Or possibly in France.

These are made in France but are far more affordable than what you can expect to pay at your local bakeshop at $5.49 as are other french desserts like the macarons.

Best of all, it says three servings sizes. These are three generous dessert portions. There is nothing worse than looking at portion size and saying "where is the rest of it?" That won't be a problem here.

As an added bonus, this is a really light and refreshing dessert for summertime. All you have to do is defrost. No baking.

Overall

In exchange for minimal effort, you get something that is cool to the palate and just sweet enough. There wasn't anything cloying about this. Just a little tart, a little sweet, a little cool, and very refreshing.

Would I buy this again? This is one of my all-time favorites. I wish I saw this on a more regular basis on shelves. There was very little not to like about this product.

Product photos

The box of Trader Joe's Macaron Aux Framboises:

Calories

Trader Joe's Macaron Aux Framboises nutritional information

Ingredients

Directions

Trader Joe's Macaron Aux Framboises how to prepare

Out of the package you get:

Trader Joe's Macaron Aux Framboises out of the box

A closer look at this dessert:

Would I buy this again? Yes, I would buy Trader Joe's Macaron Aux Framboises again. It's really well done.

Want to see more items I've reviewed from Trader Joe's? Click on Thoughts & Reviews of Trader Joe's for a searchable list.

The Bottom Line

Don't forget to share your thoughts by going to the "user review" at the bottom of the box (click on the number of stars you believe this product deserves) and leave a comment below.

You can also FOLLOW ME on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest to see what I'm up to.

Trader Joe's Chile Lime Seasoning Blend Review: Zest In Show

Trader Joe's Chile Lime Seasoning Blend comes in a 2.9-oz shaker bottle, priced at $2.29. This vibrant mix of sea salt, chile pepper, red bell pepper, and lime juice powder delivers a zesty, mildly spicy flavor that's perfect for a variety of dishes.

An unopened jar of Trader Joe's Chile Lime Seasoning Blend jar

[feast_advanced_jump_to]

Review

Let's be real: this seasoning makes me want to sprinkle it on just about everything short of cereal.

Trader Joe's Chile Lime Seasoning Blend is one of those low-cost, high-impact pantry heroes that somehow turns a basic snack into a full-blown flavor experience. It's tangy, a little salty, mildly spicy, and just the right amount of citrusy. Basically, it's what I imagine happens when lime takes a vacation in chili pepper country and brings sea salt as a souvenir.

The balance here is what really works. The lime flavor is punchy but not overpowering, and the heat is warm without being aggressive. It won't set your mouth on fire, but it will wake up your taste buds, like a tiny flavor mariachi band doing a quick set on your tongue.

I've tried it on mango, watermelon, avocado, popcorn, and even the rim of a margarita glass, and in each case, it made the flavor pop like it owed it money. On fruit, it's an absolute no-brainer. That sweet-meets-heat-meets-citrus combo? Chef's kiss. On savory items like roasted veggies or grilled chicken, it adds a zip that makes even meal-prepped leftovers feel new again.

That said, it's not exactly groundbreaking if you've had Tajín. This is clearly Trader Joe's take on that classic seasoning. It's a little less salty, a bit more lime-forward, and it's also missing that very specific MSG kick (for better or worse, depending on your stance). But for the price and convenience, it's a pretty solid substitute that earns its place next to my stove.

The only downside? The shaker top could use a redesign - sometimes it dumps more than you meant, and suddenly your pineapple looks like it had an identity crisis at a chili festival. But honestly, even then it's still pretty good.

Would I buy it again? Already have. Twice. And I've started calling it my "fruit fixer."

Trader Joe's Chile Lime Seasoning Blend nutritional information and ingredient list

How to Use

Beverage Rim: Use to rim glasses for margaritas or micheladas.
Fruit Enhancer: Sprinkle on watermelon, mango, or pineapple for a sweet and spicy treat.
Veggie Booster: Add to roasted or raw vegetables like corn, cucumbers, or jicama.
Protein Seasoning: Use as a rub for chicken, shrimp, or tofu before grilling or roasting.
Snack Upgrade: Dust over popcorn, chips, or nuts for an extra kick.

Trader Joe's Chile Lime Seasoning Blend description

Creative Uses

Chile Lime Avocado Toast: Sprinkle over avocado toast for a zesty twist.
Spicy Yogurt Dip: Mix into Greek yogurt for a tangy dip for veggies or chips.
Zesty Elote: Combine with mayo and cotija cheese on grilled corn for a street corn experience.
Flavorful Rice: Stir into cooked rice or quinoa for added flavor

FAQs about Trader Joe's Chile Lime Seasoning Blend

The following are commonly asked questions about this product:

Is it spicy?

It has a mild to moderate heat level, balanced by tangy lime and salt

How does it compare to Tajín?

Similar in concept, but Trader Joe's version is slightly less salty with a more pronounced lime flavor.

Is it gluten-free?

Yes, it contains no gluten ingredients.

How long does it last?

Best used within a year for optimal flavor, but check the expiration date on the bottle.

Where can I buy this?

This is available year-round at Trader Joe's, or you can find it on Amazon through third-party sellers.

Final Summary

Trader Joe's Chile Lime Seasoning Blend is a pantry powerhouse, delivering a harmonious blend of spice, tang, and salt that elevates a multitude of dishes. Whether you're jazzing up fresh fruit, adding flair to proteins, or seeking a new twist for your snacks, this seasoning is your go-to for a burst of flavor.

Do you love these reviews?

Don't forget to share your thoughts by going to the "user review" at the bottom of the box (click on the number of stars you believe this product deserves) and leave a comment below.

You can also FOLLOW ME on the following platforms by clicking the icons below:

Trader Joe's Chipotle Vegetable Quesadillas

Trader Joe's Chipotle Vegetable Quesadillas are a new addition to the quesadilla options in the freezer section of Trader Joe's. But quesadillas are so basic to make at home. Maybe perhaps for the premium price these would knock it out of the park for me.

Taste and review

In my quest for new items, I couldn't find a few things that I had seen online. Alas, no worries.

In the freezer section was a new actual food item. To be honest, Trader Joe's has released quite a few snacky things and I'm glad to see something new that can actually qualify in the "meal" category and not the snack/dessert category.

So the last time I tried their Southwest Chicken Quesadilla, I thought they reached just ok. I don't think I've purchased them since either. A quesadilla is pretty darn easy to make at home. It is like making a grilled cheese but even easier.

But I'm game to try just about anything so into the cart and into my microwave this went. It is a reasonable amount of calories unlike a lot of the wrap and sandwich options on shelves. In fact, you can eat this whole box for the same number of calories as the Cubano Seasoned Wrap.

The question is which tastes better? I like the Cubano wrap. I don't like the calorie count and if I'm going reach for a wrap I'm probably not just going to eat half. But this is ok with one glaring item that confused me to no end.

The "tortilla." I'm using that term pretty loosely because I'm not sure if that is what is covering this filling. I looks like a tortilla on the box. But if you look at my all-cooked photo, you can see that almost leaves the realm of what a tortilla is and goes straight to bread. And yes, I've reviewed flour tortillas here too. None was ever that thick.

The filling was good. Not much in the way of heat. The chipotle seasoning was prominent. It was filling with beans, cheese, and corn. But I got stuck on how doughy the tortilla was.

Now, yes, I made this in the microwave. But I'm kinda positive that this would be better off on the stovetop to get the outside a bit crunchy. But it is hot and I was in no mood to stand over a stove.

Overall

The wrap is quite doughy and pretty thick for a quesadilla. The finished product isn't quite as gracefully beautiful as the pictured quesadilla.

For $3.49 you get two in a box. They are quick and convenient, and the filling is ok. It just is going to hang on how much you love the traditional taste of a tortilla as a wrapper to the filling.

Would I buy this again? Trader Joe's Chipotle Vegetable Quesadillas only reach a maybe for me as a tortilla and cheese are pretty easy to make on their own and cost far less for me to make at home.

Product photos

The box of Trader Joe's Chipotle Vegetable Quesadillas:

Trader Joe's Chipotle Vegetable Quesadillas box

The nutritional information:

Trader Joe's Chipotle Vegetable Quesadillas nutritional information

The ingredients:

Trader Joe's Chipotle Vegetable Quesadillas ingredient list

How to prepare in the microwave:

Trader Joe's Chipotle Vegetable Quesadillas microwave instructions

How to prepare in anything but a microwave:

Trader Joe's Chipotle Vegetable Quesadillas directions

After being cooked you get something that isn't quite as beautiful as on the box:

Trader Joe's Chipotle Vegetable Quesadillas fully cooked — That is one thick tortilla or whatever that bread is.

Want to see more items I've reviewed from Trader Joe's? Click on Thoughts & Reviews of Trader Joe's for a searchable list.

Did you try it? Let me know what you think in the comments section!

The Bottom Line

Don't forget to share your thoughts by going to the "user review" at the bottom of the box (click on the number of stars you believe this product deserves) and leave a comment below.

You can also FOLLOW ME on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest to see what I'm up to.

Trader Joe's Chocolate Chunk Cantuccini

If you are seeking something crunchy yet dunkable, then Trader Joe's Chocolate Chunk Cantuccini might be the right snack for you.

Trader Joe's Chocolate Chunk Cantuccini review

Taste

As I'm writing this, I'm downing my second cup of coffee thinking about the 2 new coffees I picked up from Trader Joe's but haven't reviewed yet (the new Black Honey Processed Nicaraguan Coffee and the Thailand Coffee), but the reality is I'm having the cup of coffee as a side to these new little cookies.

Now, these say biscotti on them but in big bold letters is cantuccini. And these are made in Italy. So I wondered, what is the difference between cantuccini and biscotti? Well, all cantuccini is biscotti. But cantuccini originated in Tuscany and contains almonds.

But what comes out of this bag is a pleasant twice-baked cookie that is about two bites in size. Good for portion control.

These are meant to be dunked in something, thus my cup of coffee.

But unlike many cookies, these aren't very sweet. But that is a good thing. So while it is only slightly sweetened it still takes on a taste that sort of reminded me of chocolate chip cookies.

In either case, these are a good afternoon pick me up. Three of them add up to just over 100 calories. They were good with coffee and would probably be enjoyable in other beverages.

My only complaint is that this bag can't be resealed. It's August in NY and the humidity is just crazy and let's be honest, you don't want any extra humidity in your biscotti.

Overall

If you are an afternoon snacker like me, then you'll find that these are priced almost in line with what a vending machine will get you for. But at least the ingredient list is harmless. Nothing that can't be pronounced and nothing you wouldn't find in most home kitchens. For $1.69 this is priced right and worth a try.

Would I buy this again? My waist says no, but my afternoon caffeine and snack cravings say Trader Joe's Chocolate Chunk Cantuccini will likely end up in my cart again.

Product photos

The bag of Trader Joe's Chocolate Chunk Cantuccini:

The nutritional information:

Trader Joe's Chocolate Chunk Cantuccini nutritional label

The ingredients:

Trader Joe's Chocolate Chunk Cantuccini ingredient list

Out of the package you get:

Trader Joe's Chocolate Chunk Cantuccini with a cup of coffee

Want to see more items I've reviewed from Trader Joe's? Click on Thoughts & Reviews of Trader Joe's for a searchable list.

Did you try it? Let me know what you think in the comments section!

The Bottom Line

Don't forget to share your thoughts by going to the "user review" at the bottom of the box (click on the number of stars you believe this product deserves) and leave a comment below.

You can also FOLLOW ME on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest to see what I'm up to.