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Trader Joe's Peaches and Cream Tarte Review: Crust Me, It’s Delicious

Trader Joe's Peaches & Cream Tarte is a seasonal frozen dessert featuring a rustic, open-faced tart filled with sliced peaches atop a thin layer of sweetened cream cheese, all encased in a flaky pastry crust sprinkled with coarse sugar. Priced at $5.99, it serves approximately four people and is found in the freezer section.

Review

Let me just say: if Trader Joe's Peaches & Cream Tarte were a person, it would be that effortlessly chic guest who shows up to a summer picnic looking flawless and smelling amazing-while you're still trying to wrestle plastic wrap off the potato salad.

Out of the oven, this dessert looks like something you picked up from a fancy bakery on your way to brunch. The peaches glisten, the crust is golden and rustic in that "I woke up like this" way, and there's just a whisper of cream peeking through the fruit.

Now, flavor-wise? It leans refreshingly light. The peaches are sweet but not syrupy or cloying-they taste like actual fruit, not canned sugar bombs. The thin layer of sweetened cream cheese underneath gives it a gentle tang and just enough richness to balance things out. If you're expecting a thick, gooey cheesecake-type filling, you'll be disappointed. But if you're in the mood for something subtly sweet and summery, this is it.

The crust is buttery, flaky, and just sturdy enough to hold it all together without getting soggy. It holds up especially well if you let it cool for a few minutes after baking. Bonus: the sugar sprinkled along the edges caramelizes a bit in the oven, giving it just the right crunch.

Now here's the deal, this isn't a flashy dessert. It's not going to wow you with over-the-top decadence. But it's beautiful, easy, and way better than anything this low-effort should be. It's ideal for people who "don't really like dessert" but still want a little something after dinner. And let's be honest, throwing this in the oven and pretending you made it from scratch? I support that level of culinary deception.

Would I buy it again? You bet. It's an underrated summer gem-perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or eaten straight off the tray while hovering near the stove like an adult with no shame.

Calories, nutritional facts, and ingredients in Trader Joe's Peaches and Cream Tarte

How to Serve

Serving Suggestion: Let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Oven-Baked: Preheat oven to 350°F, place the tarte on a baking sheet, and bake for 30 minutes until the crust is golden and the peaches are bubbly.
Air Fryer: Bake at 320°F for 25 minutes, then increase to 400°F for 5 minutes to crisp the top.

Cooking instructions for Trader Joe's Peaches and Cream Tarte

Creative Uses

Breakfast Delight: Pair a slice with Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a sweet morning treat.
Dessert Upgrade: Top with fresh berries or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.
Brunch Star: Serve alongside mimosas and a fruit salad for a delightful brunch spread.

The open box of Trader Joe's Peaches and Cream Tarte revealing the frozen tarte

FAQs about Trader Joe's Peaches & Cream Tarte

The following are commonly asked questions about this product:

Is this tarte seasonal?

Yes, it's typically available during the summer months

Can I microwave it?

While the box may offer microwave instructions, baking is recommended for the best texture and flavor.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

Is the cream cheese layer prominent?

The cream cheese layer is subtle, adding a slight creaminess without overpowering the peach flavor.

A fully baked Trader Joe's Peaches and Cream Tarte on a plate next to the original box, fork, and a napkin

Final Thoughts

Trader Joe's Peaches & Cream Tarte offers a delightful combination of flaky pastry, sweet peaches, and a hint of creaminess. While the cream layer is subtle, the overall flavor is satisfying, making it a great choice for a quick and easy summer dessert. Just remember, it's best enjoyed fresh and may not be available year-round, so grab it while you can.

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Trader Joe's Ricotta and Lemon Zest Ravioli Review: Tastes Like Summer in a Bite

If you're looking for a light and fresh pasta that cooks in minutes, Trader Joe's Ricotta & Lemon Zest Ravioli delivers a bright, citrusy twist on a classic. It's an easy weeknight dinner or quick lunch that doesn't feel heavy, and it's one of the more unique options in the refrigerated pasta section, especially at just $3.99.

An unopened package of Trader Joe's Ricotta and Lemon Zest Ravioli on a marble surface for Pinning on Pinterest

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Review

Trader Joe's Ricotta & Lemon Zest Ravioli is one of those seasonal items that's easy to overlook, but once you try it, it leaves a lasting impression. From the moment you open the package, there's a faint citrus aroma that gives a clue to what's inside, nothing artificial or overwhelming, just a clean lemon scent mixed with the smell of fresh pasta.

The pasta itself is thin and delicate, which allows it to cook quickly in about 3-4 minutes. You do have to be gentle when boiling and draining it, though, because the ravioli can tear easily if handled roughly. That's one of the trade-offs for having such a tender bite.

As for the filling, it's surprisingly smooth and well-balanced. The ricotta is creamy and mild, but not bland. It has a rich, almost whipped texture, and it doesn't ooze out when cut. Instead, it holds its shape just enough to be fork-friendly without being overly dense.

The lemon zest comes through right away, offering a brightness that cuts through the creaminess. It's not tart or sour. Just gently zesty. The citrus flavor is noticeable, but it doesn't take over the dish. It acts more like a seasoning than a starring flavor, which is what makes this pasta so versatile. You get that pop of freshness without it feeling like a dessert disguised as dinner.

What I appreciated most was that this didn't feel like a heavy meal. Unlike many cheese-filled pastas that can leave you feeling weighed down, this felt light enough to enjoy even on a hot day. That makes it ideal for spring and summer meals, especially when paired with fresh vegetables or a crisp salad.

Of course, it's not perfect. The portion size is small; roughly enough for one hearty appetite or two modest servings, so you'll likely want to serve it with something else. And because it's seasonal, it won't be around year-round, which means stocking up is a smart move if you end up loving it.

Overall, this is a thoughtful, well-executed pasta with a refreshing twist. It's simple, quick to prepare, and delivers a flavor profile that's both familiar and just different enough to stand out.

An unopened box of Trader Joe's Ricotta and Lemon Zest Ravioli on a marble surface

Ingredients

The ingredients in the filling are straightforward: ricotta cheese, lemon zest, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. The pasta is made with wheat flour and egg, giving it a soft but sturdy texture when cooked. There are no artificial flavors, and the filling doesn't taste overly processed. It's a clean combination that lets each component shine.

Trader Joe's Ricotta and Lemon Zest Ravioli calories, nutritional information, and ingredient list as well as allergy information

How to Cook

Bring a pot of salted water to a gentle boil.
Add ravioli and stir gently to prevent sticking.
Cook for 3-4 minutes or until they float.
Drain carefully using a slotted spoon.
Toss with a light sauce and serve immediately.

Tips:

Add lemon zest or freshly grated parmesan to finish
Avoid boiling too vigorously to prevent bursting.
Use a wide pan if tossing in butter or oil after draining.

Cooking instructions for Trader Joe's Ricotta and Lemon Zest Ravioli

Serving Suggestions

Parmesan crisp topping: Sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan or add parmesan crisps for crunch.
Lemon butter sauce: Melt butter with a splash of lemon juice and a pinch of salt.
Olive oil and herbs: Drizzle with good olive oil and top with chopped basil or parsley.
Spring mix side salad: Serve with greens, shaved fennel, and a lemon vinaigrette.
Grilled asparagus or peas: Add a green vegetable for color and texture contrast.

Trader Joe's Ricotta and Lemon Zest Ravioli fully cooked on a plate with a napkin and the original packaging

Final Thoughts

Trader Joe's Ricotta & Lemon Zest Ravioli is a refreshing change from the usual heavy pasta dishes. The lemon zest brings just enough brightness to elevate the creamy ricotta without overwhelming it, and it pairs well with light sauces and fresh vegetables. It's easy to make, affordable, and perfect for when you want a satisfying but not-too-heavy meal. If you see it in stores, grab it while it lasts. This one doesn't stay on shelves for long.

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Trader Joe’s Chocolate Lava Cakes Review: Gooey, Rich, and Surprisingly Restaurant-Worthy

If you're looking for a quick and decadent dessert that feels fancy without the fuss, Trader Joe's Chocolate Lava Cakes might be one of the best freezer aisle finds. For $3.99, you get two individual cakes with a molten chocolate center that oozes when you dig in-and honestly, they taste like something you'd order at a restaurant.

An unopened box of Trader Joe's Chocolate Lava Cakes

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Review

These lava cakes have been around for a while, and for good reason-they deliver. I originally picked them up not expecting much, but I was really impressed with how indulgent they taste straight from the microwave.

The cake itself is rich, soft, and chocolatey, and the center stays molten without being runny or watery. The portion size is also spot on: decadent enough to feel like a treat without being overwhelming. I've tried both the microwave and oven methods, and while the oven gives a slightly firmer edge, the microwave version holds up well and is ready in under a minute.

What I love most is how easy they are to dress up. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream, some berries, or a drizzle of raspberry sauce, and you've got a restaurant-style dessert in under five minutes.

One note: if you're not a fan of dark chocolate, this might come across a little intense-it leans toward bittersweet. But if you enjoy a deep, rich cocoa flavor, this is a freezer staple worth stocking.

A fully cooked Trader Joe's Chocolate Lava Cakes

What's Included & How to Prepare

Each package contains:

2 individually portioned chocolate lava cakes

Microwave Instructions:

Remove outer packaging and place on a microwave-safe plate
Heat for 45-55 seconds
Let sit for 1 minute before serving

Oven Instructions:

Preheat oven to 400°F
Remove packaging and place cakes on a baking sheet
Bake for 15-17 minutes
Let cool slightly before serving

Air Fryer Directions:

If you prefer a slightly firmer edge and an evenly heated center, the air fryer is a great alternative to the oven:

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F.
Remove the lava cake from all packaging.
Place the cake in the air fryer basket or tray (use parchment or foil for easy cleanup).
Heat for 5-6 minutes, checking at the 5-minute mark.
Let sit for 1-2 minutes before serving to allow the center to finish setting.

Note: Air fryers vary, so you may need to adjust by 1-2 minutes depending on your model.

Trader Joe's Chocolate Lava Cakes heating instructions

Taste and Texture

Flavor: Deep, rich chocolate with a slightly bittersweet edge
Texture: Soft and cakey on the outside with a gooey, molten center
Sweetness level: Balanced-not too sugary, which lets the chocolate flavor shine
Portion: Just right for a personal dessert or an easy-to-serve option for guests

Trader Joe's Chocolate Lava Cakes Ingredient List

Serving Suggestions

Add a scoop of vanilla bean or salted caramel ice cream
Dust with powdered sugar or cocoa powder
Serve with macerated berries or sliced strawberries
Drizzle with raspberry coulis or peanut butter sauce
Crumble a cookie or biscotti on top for extra crunch

FAQs about Trader Joe's Chocolate Lava Cakes

The following are commonly asked questions about this product:

Are Trader Joe's Chocolate Lava Cakes vegetarian?

Yes, there are no meat products, but always check the label for changes or allergens.

Do they need to be refrigerated after opening?

They're sold frozen and should stay in the freezer until ready to eat.

Can they be reheated after cooking?

Not recommended-they're best enjoyed fresh once heated.

Are they gluten-free?

No, these contain wheat and are not suitable for gluten-free diets.

Final Thoughts

Trader Joe's Chocolate Lava Cakes are one of the brand's best hidden gems. Whether you want an easy weeknight dessert or a quick way to impress guests, these deliver all the decadence with none of the work. Pair them with your favorite ice cream or fresh fruit, and it's a guaranteed dessert win-straight from the freezer.

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Chocolate Banana Bread

Banana bread is the perfect way to use up leftover bananas. How do you make banana bread taste better? Add cocoa powder to get a rich, moist and flavorful chocolate banana bread that is ideal for both breakfast or dessert. The addition of coffee in place of water amps up the chocolate flavor in this Chocolate Banana Bread recipe.

Five slices of banana bread stacked on top of one another

So, there may have been a time or two (or more than I'm willing to admit) where I've bought far too many bananas. Especially if I go to Costco and I get a three or four-pound bag. We are only two people, but it soo hard to say no to a bag that costs only a dollar.

Or those 19-cent bananas at Trader Joe's. The path of smoothies for breakfast is paved with good intentions.

As much as I may meal plan or try to have things planned out, there are times the bananas are more ready to go in the morning than I am.

And I mean they were glorious one day. And then this, not terrible, but teetering on not awesome to just peel and eat:

Yes, over ripe bananas are the perfect way to use up those past their prime bananas and best of all this recipe only requires 2 bananas in order to make a super moist chocolate banana bread.

The Muffin Method

I know. We're making bread right?

The technique being used here is still technically called the muffin method. So you could totally make muffins with this mix if you don't have a loaf pan.

But the process is the same, we handle the "wet ingredients" separately from the "dry ingredients." I used those obnoxious quotation marks because sugar is a wet ingredient.

All the wet ingredients on a lazy susan — The wet ingredients.

Other than that mild level of confusion, the purpose behind doing things this way is to get a moist and tender loaf of delicious chocolate banana bread. You want to mix as little as possible to avoid getting the gluten in the flour going.

So literally, you are creating two separate mixes that you combine at the last minute.

All the dry ingredients on a wooden lazy susan — The dry ingredients

Ideas for Mix-Ins

I know some of you want just a little something extra in your banana bread. Perhaps it is a little bit of crunch, fruit, or some extra chocolate. In either case, you'll have space for about ¾ of a cup of mix-ins before you run out of space in your standard-sized loaf pan.

Here are a few ideas for delicious mix-ins: Chocolate Chips, nuts, fruit, and freeze-dried fruit.

Tips for Making Chocolate Banana Bread

For more molasses flavor, replace some of the white sugar with brown sugar for a more complex flavor
Start checking your banana bread at 45 minutes and be sure to test it in the middle where it is least likely to be fully cooked
You can also use frozen bananas that have been defrosted in place of overripe bananas
This mix can handle about ¾ of a cup of mix-ins if you want to add just a little something extra to your chocolate banana bread.

Watch Me Make This (58 Seconds)

How to Make Chocolate Banana Bread

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325F for dark colored pans or 350F for light colored pans. Prepare the pan by spraying the inside of your loaf pan with non stick spray and use a piece of parchment so it will be easier to lift the loaf out later. Set aside.

A collage showing how to prep a loaf pan

Step 2: Combine and sift the dry ingredients into a large bowl: all purpose flour, dutch processed cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt into a bowl. Sift and set aside.

Step 3: Melt the butter.

A collage showing the butter and what melted butter looks like

Step 4: Combine the remaining wet ingredients and mix. So first add melted butter and sugar Combine. Add egg, vanilla, buttermilk, bananas, and coffee and combine.

A collage showing the addition of all the wet ingredients together

Step 4: Add half of the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. The add the remaining dry ingredients.

A collage of the wet ingredients and the dry ingredients slowly being added.

Step 5: Add mix to your loaf pan. Bake for 45-60 minutes depending on your oven and size of loaf.

Chocolate Banana Bread batter in a loaf pan about to go into the oven

Step 6: Remove from oven and allow to cool completely which will take no less than 10 minutes.

A view of chocolate banana bread coming out of the oven. A view from the top of the loaf

Step 7: Slice and enjoy

Other Recipes You Might Enjoy

Blueberry Scones

Chocolate Chocolate Chip Cookies

Strawberry Scones

I hope you enjoy this Chocolate Banana Bread!

If you try this, would you mind hitting the "Rate" button? I'd love to know what you thought of it. If you modified the original recipe here, please let me know how it turned out. I love comments!

If you've tried this Chocolate Banana Bread or any other recipe on the blog, I'd love the hear what you thought about it in the comments below. I love hearing from you! You can also FOLLOW ME on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest to see what I'm up to.

Print Recipe

5 from 2 votes

Chocolate Banana Bread

My Chocolate Banana Bread recipe is moist, tender, and full of chocolate flavor. Almost as rich as chocolate cake, but still light enough to have for breakfast.

Prep Time10

Cook Time50

Cooling10

Total Time1

Course: Breakfast, Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: chocolate banana bread

Servings:

Calories: 239kcal

Author: Brenda

Ingredients

2 cups AP Flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
¼ cup cocoa powder
½ teaspoon cinnamon
1 pinch salt
2 bananas
1 cup sugar
1.5 sticks butter
2 eggs
¼ cup buttermilk
½ cup coffee
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 325F if using a dark pan or 350F if you are using a light colored pan.
Prepare your loaf pan. Spray with non stick spray or butter interior and use some parchment paper on the inside. This will make it easier for removing the loaf after it is baked.
Sift together dry ingredients into a bowl: flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
In a separate bowl combine melted butter and sugar. Combine.
Add eggs to the wet ingredients. Mix to combine. Don't overmix.
Add buttermilk, coffee, and vanilla. Mix to combine.
Add half the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Add other half of the dry ingredients and mix until just combined being careful to not over mix.
Pour into the prepared loaf pan and bake.
Bake 45-55 minutes checking for doneness with a cake tester or toothpick. When the tester comes out clean it is cooked all the way through. Remove from oven.
Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Remove and allow to cool for another 10 minutes before slicing.

Video

Notes

For more molasses flavor, replace some of the white sugar with brown sugar for a more complex flavor
Start checking your banana bread at 45 minutes and be sure to test it in the middle where it is least likely to be fully cooked
You can also use frozen bananas that have been defrosted in place of overripe bananas
This mix can handle about ¾ of a cup of mix ins if you want to add just a little something extra to your chocolate banana bread.

Nutrition

Trader Joe's Soft Baked Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Growing up I know there were certain cookies that were more popular than others around the lunch table at school. Chips Ahoy was up there in popularity. I was probably the odd kid who really liked Keebler Soft Batch Chocolate Chip Cookies. There was something in those that vaguely reminded of homemade cookies. So when I saw Trader Joe's Soft Baked Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies I was hopeful.

Taste

And on first bite, it wasn't bad at all.

Like my beloved Keebler cookies, they had that semi homemade taste. And when I say semi homemade, I do mean that the flavor is nearly impossible to replicate at home. Think of how boxed cake mix tastes, you really can't replicate that at home.

Likewise, there is a naturalness to the flavor here.

As well as one odd flavor. More on that in a second.

These cookies are first and foremost peanut butter cookies. That is hands down the most assertive flavor here. There are little bits of peanuts in here to add an extra kick of peanut flavor.

It doesn't had that familiar brown sugar flavor that a chocolate chip cookie usually has. But the chunks of chocolate chips do vaguely make this sort of like a chocolate chip cookie.

But on the back end of tasting, I got a weird flavor note. I had to quickly glance at the ingredients to figure out what in the world I was tasting.

This has date paste. Dates are mostly sugar after all, but they do add an unexpected flavor. It wasn't even mentioned in the product description either.

So depending on your feeling towards the flavor of dates might actually guide how much you like them.

Overall

For $2.99 you get 10 cookies which isn't a bad deal.

Would I buy this again? Trader Joe's Soft Baked Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies were fun to try, but nothing essential to life. It didn't come close to my favorite cookies like the seasonal Key Lime Tea Cookies, Speculoos Cookies, or Maple Leaf Cookies.

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

Product photos

The bag of Trader Joe's Soft Baked Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies:

An unopened bag of Trader Joe's Soft Baked Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies on a marble surface

Calories and ingredients

Calories, nutritional information and ingredient list for Trader Joe's Soft Baked Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

The description from the side of the bag:

Description from the side of the bag of Trader Joe's Soft Baked Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Out of the package you get:

One cookie removed from an open bag of Trader Joe's Soft Baked Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

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.

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