Unexpected twist in Trader Joe's pumpkin pie taste test

Trader Joe's has a knack for selling tempting and often viral snacks, but how does their pumpkin pie measure up? We picked up a Trader Joe's Pumpkin Pie and tested it thoroughly. Heres our honest breakdown, covering everything from crust quality to spice balance, helping you decide if it deserves a spot on your Thanksgiving table.

Availability and Purchase

Finding the pie was simple. Trader Joe's stores are well-organized, and their layout is largely consistent, making it easy to locate items. The pumpkin pies were displayed in a large middle aisle, separate from other baked goods, likely due to the seasonal focus. The pie is priced at $6.99 and is considered a limited-time item. High demand means its wise to buy early, and checking the store for restock dates can help avoid disappointment. Always check the expiration date before purchasing.

Ingredients and Freshness

The pie contains fresh pumpkin pure, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, cloves, and standard crust ingredients like palm oil, sugar, water, and egg. Notably, there is no butter in the crust. The expiration date on our pie was 11/12, indicating a short shelf life and a sign of fresh ingredients. The pie requires refrigeration after opening, so make sure to have space in your fridge.

Packaging and Presentation

The festive box is visually appealing with its black background and light lettering, though it isnt very sturdy. Opening is simple, with a bottom sticker and lift-top design. The pie itself has a rich, dark filling with a golden brown crust. Decorative edging gives it a homemade appearance. At 1 lb 11 oz and 9 inches in diameter, it serves six people. Cutting into smaller pieces can cause crumbling, so larger slices are recommended.

Pie Construction and Texture

The aluminum pan is flimsy and slightly uneven. Lifting the pie can cause cracks, but the pie is substantial and hearty. It has a smooth, creamy texture, thick but not sticky, and the crust, though delicate, is slightly sweet. The homemade-looking edge adds charm, even if its fragile.

Aroma and Flavor

The pie has a strong, unusual scent that isnt distinctly cinnamon but pleasant. On tasting, the initial bite delivers a bold, dominant flavor. Ground ginger is the standout ingredient, giving a slightly spicy note that overpowers other flavors. The crust is sweet enough to balance the filling but lacks richness due to the absence of butter. Whipped cream could help temper the strong ginger taste. Despite the intensity, the pie avoids artificial flavors and maintains a homemade feel.

Serving Tips

The pie can yield about ten small slices if presentation isnt a concern. For six servings, larger pieces work best to preserve structure. It can be eaten with a fork or by hand if the slices are big enough.

Final Verdict

Overall, the crust is decent, but the ginger flavor is overpowering, which may not suit all tastes. On the positive side, the price is excellent: under $7 for a pie serving six people is roughly $1 per slice, cheaper than buying all ingredients separately. While its not a repeat purchase for us, it may appeal to those who enjoy a spicy pumpkin filling. Our next seasonal taste test will likely be Trader Joes pecan pie.

Author: Sophia Brooks