The $5.49 TJ’s Find I’m Stocking up on While It Lasts (Especially for Thanksgiving)

Once the warm weather begins to recede and grocery isles start to cater to autumn flavors, one of the first places I go is to Trader Joe’s—specifically, to their frozen dessert aisle.

Stacked next to the Trader Joe’s Italian Tiramisu and Vanilla Mochi is one of my favorite seasonal go-to's, waiting to be bought in bulk and stockpiled in my freezer. If I host a dinner party, am on dessert duty for a potluck, or crave fall sweets, I rely on Trader Joe’s Rustic Apple Tarte.

Why TJ's Rustic Apple Tarte Is My Go-To Fall Dessert

The Trader Joe’s Rustic Apple Tarte is a fully cooked dessert that will surpass your expectations. Despite being frozen, this pastry tastes freshly made every time.

Inside the soft, sugar-coated crust, there is a delicious mix of Northern Spy apples, sweet cream cheese, sugar, and cinnamon. It is then topped with a layer of sliced almonds and even more sugar, adding a subtle crunch that creates a heavenly bite.

 The cooking instructions recommend baking for 20 to 25 minutes at 350°F or until the center is warm. I usually set my timer for 22 minutes, give the almonds a tap to make sure they are toasty, then put it back in for one to two minutes or until the crust gets slightly more golden brown. 

Why I Always Have It on Hand

As someone who loves to host friends for dinner and never likes to show up to a function empty-handed, the Rustic Apple Tarte has become my go-to for an affordable, quick, and easy dessert.

With Thanksgiving approaching, I also plan on bringing two or three to my family gathering, accounting for one tarte to serve approximately three people.

Ideas for How To Serve the Tarte

While the Rustic Apple Tarte tastes delicious alone, try plating it with a scoop of Trader Joe’s French Vanilla or Pumpkin Ice Cream, or a few shakes of powdered sugar. For extra sweetness, add a drizzle of Trader Joe’s Organic Maple Butter, Pumpkin Butter, or Cinnamon Bun Spread to go all out on the seasonal flavors. 

Next time you are in need of an affordable, cozy fall dessert that tastes homemade, try Trader Joe’s Rustic Apple Tarte!

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