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Trader Joe's Jalapeno Sauce

Trader Joe's Green Sauce 2.0. However, this green sauce is different from the current green dragon hot sauce available on shelves. Trader Joe's Jalapeño Sauce is overall pretty good and a completely different beast from the other green sauce, it's a solid Jalapeño Pepper Hot Sauce.

Trader Joe's Jalapeno Sauce Review image for Pinterest

Taste and review

On the bottle, it looks like a creamy green sauce. But it is labeled as being vegan. Despite the label, it tastes quite creamy.

It reminded me slightly of an ají sauce (minus the tomatoes and cilantro). And yes, there is no cilantro in this product. I know in my household that is a dividing food issue. I can't get enough of that flavor, but my husband feels like it tastes like soap.

For the most part, I don't try sauces on their own. Sauces should be paired with something. A sauce is a compliment. Since you use so little, it should be assertive.

To which this sauce is.

There is no hiding the Jalapeño peppers in this sauce. It brings about that heat level.

In addition to the Jalapeno, this is emulsified with canola oil with onion, salt, garlic, and spice. But it was tough to figure out what the spice was as the jalapeno was the dominant flavor here.

So it's Tuesday, therefore tacos are necessary. I'm working behind the scenes on a ribeye post, so I had some leftovers from the previous evening. So Ribeye tacos were the order of the day. A few Trader Joe's Tortillas, some cheese, lettuce, and this sauce made for a really awesome dinner.

Oh, don't forget about the Cadillac Margarita. That paired well with this sauce too. It cut through the heat here.

Overall

For $3.49 this was a tasty find. Aside from tacos, I imagine this would pair well with eggs, guacamole, meat, tofu, or cheese. There is plenty of room for creativity here. Much like Trader Joe's beloved Everything But the Bagel Seasoning, I look forward to seeing how everyone uses this creatively.

Would I buy this again? Yes, I would buy Trader Joe's Jalapeño Sauce again. It was a really great pairing with my tacos.

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

Product photos

The bottle of Trader Joe's Jalapeno Sauce:

An unopened bottle of Trader Joe's Jalapeno Sauce on a marble surface

Calories

Nutritional information and calories in Trader Joe's Jalapeno Sauce

Ingredients

Ingredients and product description for Trader Joe's Jalapeno Sauce

Paired with homemade ribeye tacos and a Cadillac Margarita:

A jar of Trader Joe's Jalapeno Sauce next to Ribeye Tacos and a Cadillac Margarita

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 May 2019 Fearless Flyer Matchups

Welcome back to another edition of the Fearless Flyer Matchups! Here are the matchups for the May 2019 flyer which landed today.

If there is a picture next to the product, it is matched with a review from this blog. If it is just a link, then it is a review on a different site. If there is neither, that means I couldn’t find a review to match up with that product. To see the actual Trader Joe's Flyer click here. They don't archive them from month to month but at the bottom of this page are the past flyers I've done matchups for.

Lot’s of fun new items to check out this month. Some old ones, some classic items featured. Happy Shopping! I hope this helps you work on your next shopping list!

...

Read On →

Trader Joe's Peanut Butter Blondies

I love Blondies. I reviewed Trader Joe's Blondies Bar Baking Mix not too long ago. When my Mom and Sister hear that I'm making a Trader Joe's run, that is their usual request. That is one of my sister's favorite items to make and bring to her workplace. Because who doesn't love the dense blondie nature that reminds you of a big cookie?

Trader Joe's Peanut Butter Blondies review image for Pinterest with the box and words "a review of" on the top

Taste and review

Here is an item where the blondie aspect takes a back seat to the peanut butter flavor. So much so that I didn't really recognize them as being blondies by taste.

And these are the lightest and airiest blondies I've ever tasted. I mean usually, blondies seem pretty rich and thick. These Peanut Butter Blondies seemed far removed from the boxed variety that is sold at Trader Joe's. So if you were looking forward to that taste, then forget it.

And with that lightness comes a thick layer of peanut butter candy on the top. It isn't the dense peanut butter out of the jar. It tastes more like the peanut butter chips that you might buy in a bag. And this layer is piled on thick too. But within that layer, they've lightened it up with some crunch.

The strawberry adds a nice fruitiness but also adds yet another layer of sweetness. And the strawberry and peanut on the packaging make this box extra adorable. But sometimes cute packaging can be a great sales point to get you to buy a product.

It worked in this case. But as for a repurchase, that's not for me.

So in the end, what you have here is tasty, but it is sweet on sweet. Yes, you get a textural contrast, but it just tastes more like a super sweet PB&J sandwich. A tasty one, but not one where I couldn't wait to go back.

Overall

For $4.99 this package is a bit small. And for the price, there are better-priced desserts that come to mind. Overall, not something you need to rush out and try. They taste fine; there is nothing wrong with this product, but it did not bring the blondie aspect quite as much as I would have liked despite how large it was written on the box.

And honestly, I've never really looked at a PB&J and said "Yes, I want that for dessert." Plus each tiny bite-sized piece will set you back 90 calories each.

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

Product photos

The box of Trader Joe's Peanut Butter Blondies:

An unopened box of Trader Joe's Peanut Butter Blondies

Calories, ingredients, and directions

Calories, nutritional information, ingredients, and how to prepare directions for Trader Joe's Peanut Butter Blondies

Out of the package you get:

An open box of Trader Joe's Peanut Butter Blondies revealing the contents

After a brief defrost a closer look at one of these bites:

A zoomed in look at one piece of Trader Joe's Peanut Butter Blondies

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.

Nuts and Berries Cocktail

Forget fancy dessert bars, this Nuts and Berries Cocktail is low-key luxury in a glass. With hazelnut liqueur, raspberry liqueur, and creamy half‑and‑half, it's like sipping a grown-up PB&J but way more elegant. Bonus: there's a dairy‑free version, so no one misses out on the creamy goodness.

Whether you're winding down after dinner or just craving something sweet and smooth, this cocktail is your new go-to nightcap. Plus, it takes just minutes to whip up, no kitchen drama required.

A side shot of two Nuts and Berries Cocktails, one in a martini glass the other with ice in a rocks glass.
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Ingredients

  • 1 oz hazelnut liqueur (like Frangelico or Amaretto)
  • 1 oz raspberry liqueur (like Chambord or crème de cassis)
  • 2 oz half‑and‑half (or milk, heavy cream, or non‑dairy alternative like almond/oat milk or Bailey's Almande)

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Only 3 ingredients: Minimal effort, maximum flavor.
  • Perfectly balanced: Sweet berry meets nutty richness in a silky, creamy sip.
  • Adaptable: Easily swap liqueurs or milk options to fit your vibes.

How is this cocktail served?

This cocktail can be enjoyed in a number of ways:

  • On the rocks, you are putting ice in your drink. Pour into a rocks glass filled with ice.
  • Up, you are enjoying the drink without ice and can be served in a wine glass or in a martini glass.
  • As a shot, eliminate the diary and enjoy the pairing of nuts and fruit flavor and pour it into a shot glass.

Watch me make this (46 Seconds)

How do I make this

Step 1: Measure out the Liqueurs and pour them into a glass. Decide how cold you want your drink. You can choose to pour these ingredients together and serve, shake them together with ice, or add ice at the end.

Adding the Hazelnut and the Raspberry Liqueur

Step 2: Add half and half (or non dairy milk or Bailey's Almande)

A measuring cup with the Bailey's Almande for the nuts and berries cocktail with the original bottle in the background

Step 3: Stir with a spoon to combine & garnish with fruit (totally optional).

The overhead shot of my Nuts and Berries Cocktail with raspberries as a garnish

Step 4: Sip and enjoy!

Two finished Nuts and Berries Cocktails. The one in front is in a rocks glass with ice the one in the background is served in a martini glass. However, the rocks glass is close up and in focus.

FAQs about Nuts and Berries Cocktail

Can I substitute the liqueurs?

Yes! Amaretto works if you don't have Frangelico, and crème de cassis is a great Chambord substitute.

How strong is it?

It's designed to be a mild nightcap, just enough to relax without knocking you out.

Can I make a shot version?

Totally! Skip the dairy and pour the liqueurs into a shot glass or mini cocktail glass.

If cocktails came with a bedtime story, this one reads sweet, nutty, and just the right level of indulgent. It's a no-fuss evening treat that's as delightful as the best dessert but sippable. Keep your pantry stocked, pour yourself a glass, and call it a (wonderfully boozy) night.

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 Nuts and Berries Cocktail 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.

Two finished Nuts and Berries Cocktails. The one in front is in a rocks glass with ice the one in the background is served in a martini glass. However, the rocks glass is in focus.
Print Recipe
4.64 from 11 votes

Nuts and Berries Cocktail

If you are looking for the perfect end of evening dessert drink, then look no further than this Nuts and Berries Cocktail recipe. This only requires three simple ingredients but yields and absolutely delicious drink that has perfectly balanced flavors of nuttiness and sweet berries . I've also included ways to make it dairy free. 
Prep Time5 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Course: Dessert, Drinks
Cuisine: American
Keyword: nuts and berries, nuts and berries cocktail
Servings: 1
Calories: 226kcal
Author: Brenda

Ingredients

  • 1 ounce Hazelnut Liqueur if unavailable see recipe notes
  • 1 ounce Raspberry Liqueur if unavailable see recipe notes
  • 2 ounces half and half if unavailable see recipe notes

Instructions

  • Measure and add both liqueurs together. If you want a chilled drink add ice and shake. If you want the drink to be slightly cold then skip the ice.
  • Add the half and half (or non dairy alternative) to the glass and stir.
  • Pour and serve. Sip and Enjoy!

Video

Notes

  • If you don't have Frangelico, then use Amaretto as a substitute
  • If you don't have Raspberry Liqueur, then use Creme de Cassis or other berry liqueur
  • If you are Dairy-Free, then use almond milk or other non dairy milk OR use Bailey's Almande which is also dairy free.
  • If you don't keep half and half around then feel free to substitute whole milk or heavy cream in its place. 

Nutrition

Calories: 226kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 20mg | Sodium: 25mg | Potassium: 73mg | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 200IU | Calcium: 60mg

Trader Joe's Georgia Pecan Butterscotch Chip Cookies

Two new cookies have hit shelves: Trader Joe's Georgia Pecan Butterscotch Chip Cookies and the Benne Wafer Cookies. Yes, this has been the year of snack food. Now despite the words "Georgia" and the color of the bag, there is no peach in this. Nope, just straight-up pecan and butterscotch.

Trader Joe's Georgia Pecan Butterscotch Chip Cookies Review Pin for Pinterest

Taste and review

And yes, we totally need some peach-flavored things. Just putting that out there.

Now, despite the way the packaging might have you feel or imagine what they taste like, these are teeny tiny cookies.

Like really small cookies.

I got excited when I turned the bag over and was like "10 cookies per serving? Heck yeah!"

But then, out of the bag, they are about nickel-sized. So don't get too excited. It would probably take about 4 cookies to equal the size of one regular-sized cookie.

Despite the tiny size, there is another subtle complaint here. I know Trader Joe's said they were cutting back on plastic packaging, but there is yet another plastic bag in this paper bag. Yup, it is double bagged.

But despite those minor complaints here are some tasty little cookies.

These aren't as sweet as some cookies. To me, they were more on the salty side (but not quite as salty as the Benne Wafer Cookies).

There is a good amount of salt paired with the nuttiness here. And the cookies are tiny, flat, and therefore very crisp. They are quite thin and the butterscotch acts as a sweet contrast to the saltiness.

Overall

Given how many sweets Trader Joe's has hit us with, this is a pleasant contrast. It isn't cloyingly sweet.

For $3.29 it is also priced a bit higher than I would have liked to see for a bag this size that isn't organic.

Would I buy this again? Trader Joe's Georgia Pecan Butterscotch Chip Cookies weren't bad. They just weren't my favorite either. I wouldn't repurchase these.

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

Visual rundown

A new bag of Trader Joe's Georgia Pecan Butterscotch Chip Cookies:
A bag of Trader Joe's Georgia Pecan Butterscotch Chip Cookies

Calories

Calories and nutritional facts inTrader Joe's Georgia Pecan Butterscotch Chip Cookies

Ingredients

Ingredients in Trader Joe's Georgia Pecan Butterscotch Chip Cookies as well as allergy information

Out of the package you get:

An open bag of Trader Joe's Georgia Pecan Butterscotch Chip Cookies with six cookies peaking out

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.