As expected most Trader Joe’s desserts are vegetarian. I hesitate to say “all” just in case they decide to carry a mincemeat pie some Christmas.
The vegan dessert choices are more limited. Check out TJ’s Vegan Foods List for vegan dessert options.
Each store contains a small “Bake Shop” area with fresh baked desserts. Seasonal items, such as heart decorated cupcakes for Valentine’s Day, often appear on the Bake Shop table.
Trader Joe’s carries a large selection of frozen desserts, including cakes, tarts, cheese cake, ice cream and sorbet. Trader Joe’s also carries an extensive selection of shelf stable cookies in boxes, bags or plastic containers. These are usually displayed over the frozen foods case. Some of the cookies are very standard (bite size chocolate chip cookies for kids lunches), while others are more interesting (kona coffee hand dipped short bread).
TJ’s carries chilled chocolate chip cookie dough that makes tasty cookies, but they turn out brown and flat so not something you can take to a bake sale. They sometimes carry a spice cookie dough that is delicious and looks nice, but this cookie may not be a big hit with children.
Trader Joe’s carries excellent caramel and fudge sauces as well as a wide selection of dried fruits and nuts that make excellent ice cream toppings. Ripe fresh fruit (berries and peaches) can also turn plain ice cream or sorbet into something special.
Dessert fun begins with creative combinations of Trader Joe’s items. Embellish Trader Joe’s plain cheesecake with a drizzle of caramel or fudge sauce and some walnuts for a nice presentation. Serve vanilla ice cream with fresh peaches, a drizzle of honey and a pinch of cinnamon for a summer time treat.