Holiday season is my personal Super Bowl. The minute November hits, I’m living on chai lattes, chasing the smell of gingerbread, and feeling instantly eight years old again any time I make a mug of Nestle hot cocoa. And while I don’t pop into Trader Joe’s as often as I’d like, I’m always obsessed with what they bring to the table this time of year. Especially the goodies that make you eat delicious and smell delicious (shout out to my all-time fave perfume, Sweet Tooth by Sabrina Carpenter).
So if you’re stuffing stockings, building care packages, or just treating yourself because you deserve it, these Trader Joe’s holiday items are tiny, festive bundles of joy worth grabbing before they vanish for the season.
Bourbon Vanilla Beans, $3
A tiny luxury for the baker in your life. These Madagascar-grown Bourbon vanilla beans are glossy, fragrant, and guaranteed to make any holiday recipe feel extra special, whether they’re stirring them into cookies, syrups, or anything meant to make the kitchen smell amazing.
Cinnamon Roll Flavored Lip Mask, $6
As someone fully converted by Laneige and The Creme Shop, I take lip masks very seriously, and dry, flaky lips are not on my holiday wishlist. This cinnamon roll-flavored one from Trader Joe’s feels like a cozy bakery moment for your face. Sweet, soothing, and perfect for anyone who wants their stocking stuffers to smell (and feel) delicious.
Gingerbread Dude Cookie, $3
If you’re dreaming of spending the holidays on a beach instead of in line at the mall, this little guy gets it. With his Santa hat and hibiscus-print board shorts, he’s basically your crunchy, gingery avatar for a winter getaway. One bite, and you’re on island time.
Gluten Free Candy Cane Joe-Joe’s, $5
These festive sandwich cookies are a win for anyone who’s gluten-sensitive or has a gluten allergy but still wants in on the holiday treats. The cream is studded with crunchy candy cane pieces, giving every bite that perfect mix of sweet, minty, and merry. Honestly, it’s hard to imagine a more effortless way to make sure everyone gets a little holiday joy.
Cookie Mug Hangers, $3
These cinnamon-spiced little guys are basically your mug’s new best friends. Just hook one onto the rim of your coffee or hot cocoa and let it hang out until you’re ready to dunk. They add instant cozy energy to any warm drink and feel like the kind of tiny delight that makes winter mornings way more magical.
Break Apart Reindeer, $4
This adorable milk chocolate reindeer cracks open to reveal gelatin-free, red “nose-shaped” candies, aka a playful nod to everyone’s favorite glowing-nose Christmas character. It’s the perfect mix of whimsy and chocolatey goodness, and honestly? Breaking it apart feels just as satisfying as eating it.
Holiday Peanut Butter Flavored Decorated Dog Treats, $5
Deck out your pup’s stocking with these peanut butter-flavored goodies! Shaped like snowflakes, gingerpeople, and bones, they’re covered in dog-safe icing and basically look like mini Christmas cookies. They’re perfect for your furry friend to join in on the holiday snacking.
Maple Brioche Style Liège Waffles, $5
A little out-of-the-box, but totally worth it. These waffles are basically a love letter to Belgium waffle enthusiasts. The coarse pearl sugar gives them a luxe crunch, making every bite sweet, buttery, and utterly craveable. Honestly, receiving these in a stocking might just make me tear up.
Brazil Nut Body Trio, $13
This travel-size set of body butter, body oil, and body mist smells like sweet indulgence. Think salted caramel, pistachio, and vanilla all in one. Perfect for skincare lovers who want a little luxurious pampering on the go.
Candy Cane Green Tea, $3
Caffeine-free and festive, this tea is perfect for anyone who wants a cozy, minty, holiday sip without all the cocoa overload.
Mini Gingerbread People, $5
These tiny gingernaps, coated in sweet white fudge on the bottom, practically beg to be dunked in a cozy mug of coffee, holiday vibes included.
Belgian Truffle Ballotin Box, $5
Perfect for chocolate lovers, this box holds eight bite-sized surprises. From caramel to crunchy waffle to hazelnut, each piece is a little moment of indulgence.
Taste Test of Caramels, $8
Twelve decadent squares, each coated in dark chocolate with playful designs hinting at their flavors. Think passion fruit, salted lavender, or even creme brulee. A mini tasting adventure in every bite!
Cranberry Butter Cookies, $3
A tender shortbread base, a whisper of cinnamon, and sweet dried cranberries make these buttery cookies perfect for those who prefer a subtler sweetness.
Honey Hydration Day & Night Cream Duo, $8
Get your glow on with this sweet-smelling duo that keeps skin hydrated and happy, all thanks to the magic of Manuka honey.