The dessert aisle this year is killing me. So I'm taking a much-needed break from it. So far I haven't seen a ton of new appetizers yet. Perhaps it is too early to say, but I thought they would be out by Thanksgiving. Shelves in my local store have already been packed with Bacon-Wrapped Scallops and dates and we've even seen the return of the Lemon Ricotta Cheese and Fondue in the cheese aisle.
Taste
Well, cheese is always a hit in my household for appetizers. It doesn't matter if it is melted or sliced or part of the charcuterie board.
In fact, my husband and I had these one night for dinner (and a series of other appetizers that I'll get to in the coming weeks).
What you think of these might vary. Why? Because mine did not (for the most part) keep their cute round shape). Of the 12 bites, only about half stayed in their round shape. A lot of mine looked like they were a smidge flat. Kinda like a flat tire.
The rest became oval orbs on my baking sheet. They were tasty orbs.
In fact, one thing omitted from the directions is to enjoy these warmed, but not hot. Two minutes might not be quite enough to cool these down enough.
As much as the imagery on the packaging might have you believe that these are some kind of grown up mozzarella stick, they really aren't.
First off, this is a cream cheese based item. So if you are trying to eat this too warm, it's just not going to keep its shape, much like the now discontinued chicken parmesan lollipops.
Yup, while mozzarella sticks are best served right out of the fryer, these will be much better if you let the now softened cheesy cream cheese mixture come back to something just warmer that room temperature you will be rewarded with melty cheesy, slightly garlic-y bites.
The panko adds a nice crunch and contrast to the soft interior. Mine didn't quite reach the color level of the box. But make no mistake, the dozen was gone relatively quickly with no leftovers.
Overall
For $2.99 for a dozen bites, they were a pretty good deal. My husband and I both enjoyed these.
Would I buy these again? Maybe if I see them. These are seasonal appetizers, so I'm not sure how many times I'll see them before they disappear off of my store's shelves.
Product photos
The box of Trader Joe's Herbaceous Cheesy Bites:
Calories
Ingredients
Directions
Air fryer directions
Pre-heat your air fryer to 400F. Cook for 7 minutes or until desired doneness.
Out of the package you get:
After being cooked you get:
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Did you try it? Let me know what you think in the comments section!
The Bottom Line
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Trader Joe's Herbaceous Cheesy Bites
Product Name: Trader Joe's Herbaceous Cheesy Bites
Price: $2.99
Summary
Trader Joe's Herbaceous Cheesy Bites are made with cream cheese, mozzarella, parmesan, garlic and herbs in a panko crust.
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Taste
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Value
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Worthy of Repurchasing
Pros
- Make for a nice appetizer
- Have a flavor that goes beyond just cheese
- Panko exterior lends a nice crunch
Cons
- Didn't quite keep their round shape
- If you aren't a fan of cream cheese, then skip these
- These were better closer to warm. The two minutes might not be enough time to cool these properly.
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Dag says
Ya know...... I wasn't crazy about these. And I do so love cheese. They were just sort of bland in my opinion. They could have used a stronger cheese or more herbs, more something. Don't get me wrong they weren't bad just not special. Maybe if they incorporated a stronger cheese like some gruyere or goat cheese along with more herbs I think they could have been better.
becomebetty says
Hey Dag! Fair enough. I wasn't wowed by them, I hope the appetizers get better, I haven't been impressed by the new appetizers hitting shelves. Thanks so much for stopping by!
Alek says
Would be lovely if it got jalapenos in there. A twist on jalapeno popper.
becomebetty says
Hey Alek! I think that would have added a lot more flavor than what was found in these. Great suggestion. Thanks so much for stopping by!
Dag says
I so agree jalapenos would have really added a new dimension to them. As is they are just nothing to write home about.
Grubbing With Jess says
Yum! After seeing these I was hoping they would be a grown up version of mozzarella sticks, but still sound delicious!
becomebetty says
If you get a chance to try it, I'd love to hear what you think. Thanks so much for stopping by!
Atalie says
I made them in the air fryer at 375. Kept a close eye on them to make sure I got them out before they exploded. They kept shape well using that method. Then let them rest just a couple minutes before eating. They were good … nice mix of crispy crust and creamy goodness inside, but I agree with other reviewers- not overly flavorful. I would maybe drizzle or dip them in a spicy sauce in the future for a little kick …. like maybe the Chili onion crunch sauce or Jalapeño sauce from TJ’s.
becomebetty says
Thanks so much for sharing!
Lyn Detroy says
so delish. My family loves them. I went to Stamford store to get more and the whole frozen case was empty. No cheesy bites! They are a hit. would love the recipe.
becomebetty says
I'll see if I can come up with a copycat at somepoint. Thanks for stopping by and sharing!
Shelley says
I absolutely loved them only now to realize another seasonal item I can not get.
becomebetty says
I know! Such a bummer.