The 7 Best Trader Joe's Stocking Stuffers Under $5

Something about the holidays at Trader Joe's gets me into the Christmas spirit. Perhaps it's the aisles of festive treats or the fact that I can walk out with a bag full of goodies without my wallet feeling depleted. This year, in particular, I've discovered a treasure trove of stocking stuffers that are as delicious as they are affordable. Here are some of my favorites—each one guaranteed to make your spirits bright.

1. Soft Italian Nougat ($2.49)

Nougat might sound old-school, but trust me, this is candy redefined. Also known as torrone, it's made in Italy with almonds, hazelnuts, and pistachios suspended in chewy, honey-sweetened perfection. And it is, for me, the quintessential holiday treat.

My aunt used to make this lavish-looking confection for us each Christmas—complete with edible wafer paper to keep our fingers clean. This nougat pairs beautifully with a strong cup of coffee or proper cup of tea and looks stunning on a dessert plate. I'm popping it into stockings for a delightful chew that's anything but boring.

2. Dark Chocolate Candy Cane Marshmallows ($3.49)

These jolly sweets are the overachievers of holiday treats. Fluffy marshmallow bites are dipped in dark chocolate and dusted with crushed candy canes, creating a festive one-bite texture party. Perfect for dunking into hot cocoa or adding to a s'mores bar, these seasonal gems also make a great last-minute host gift. Because, let's be honest, we don't have time to bake cookies for every party.

3. Shishito Crisps ($2.99)

Crunchy, salty, and with just a hint of heat, these vacuum-fried shishito crisps are the savory snack of choice. They're perfect for the pepper-lover in your life—and particularly fun if they also like surprises. Shishitos are known for their mild, almost sweet taste, making them an easy favorite, but one in ten to twenty peppers packs a bit of heat for a spicy surprise. They're great on a charcuterie board, sprinkled over rice bowls, or—my absolute favorite—straight out of the bag while binge-watching holiday movies.

4. Fig Butter ($2.99)

Fig butter is my go-to for instant elegance. Its rich jamminess transforms an everyday slice of toast into a culinary masterpiece, but think outside the carbs! Spread it on baked Brie, swirl it into Greek yogurt, or use it as a glaze for roasted meats or veggies, as a start. A jar of this feels like a gourmet secret, and at under $3, it's a steal. If fig isn't your thing, the Granny Smith and Calvados spread is just as good.

5. Crunchy Milk Chocolate Hazelnut Pralines ($4.49)

These pralines are Ferrero Rocher's more affordable cousins. Each sweet orb boasts layers of milk chocolate, crunchy hazelnut bits, crisp wafers, and a creamy ganache center, all wrapped around a whole hazelnut. Dare I say dupe!? The silver foil adds a touch of glam, making these an easy addition to stockings or holiday gift baskets. I may or may not buy an entire box for myself (and myself only).

6. Italian Confetti Almonds ($4.49)

If you've ever had candy-coated almonds at a baby shower or wedding, this is the upscale version. Made with Avola almonds from Sicily, they have a naturally sweet, almond extract-like flavor that comes enrobed in a delicate vanilla candy shell for a lightly sweet outer crunch. They're great for filling bowls at holiday parties, adding to gift bags, or just snacking while you wrap presents. They're so sophisticated that people will assume you bought them at an upscale confectioner (wink).

7. Phyllo Crisps ($2.99)

These innovative crisps are a little bit sweet, a little bit savory, and utterly delectable. Thin, crispy phyllo "crackers" are topped with a mix of dried cranberries, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, oats, a touch of honey, and a sprinkling of cinnamon, which means lots of added goodness. They're wonderful on their own, but also make a fun addition to a cheese board. If you're a bubbly drinker like me, pair them with sparkling wine for a decidedly posh snack. Keep extra boxes on hand—you'll go through them quickly.

Trader Joe's has once again made holiday gifting and snacking ridiculously easy and affordable. At under $5 a pop, these stocking stuffers deliver on flavor, festivity, and fun. So grab them while they last—nothing's worse than finding out your favorite treat is sold out when it's only available once a year.

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