Today's sign of the apocalypse: Russ reviewed a pumpkin item before I did, and I'm reviewing the first apple cider product of the year.
But I certainly don't regret it. Because this stuff's deee-licious.
Yep. There's more to the tastes of fall than just pumpkin spice. And honestly, I was more eager to try this fascinating condiment than any of the new "Pumpkin Joe's" items I've seen so far. Haven't you heard? Apple cider jam is the new cookie butter.
My goodness. Where do I start? It's absolutely bursting with apple bits. Chunky style. It's still quite spreadable, but there's more than enough apple pieces to make it substantial. The syrup is sweet, but not overly so. And it actually tastes like cider, not just apples or apple juice. They really nailed the blend of fall spices if you ask me. Just the smell from the jar alone is enough to make you want to put on flannel and jump in a pile of autumn leaves.
Sonia says it reminds her of the filling in a McDonald's apple pie. Really, my love? I mean, sure, there are apple chunks and golden syrup in both cases, but I'd argue the quality here is head and shoulders above those cardboard-clad fast food confections. Plus, there's not a whole lot in the way of a spice blend there with the Golden Arches' offering.
She's also hung up on the price. $3.99 for a small jar does seem a bit steep. We're going through it fast. Like, it'll be gone somewhere between 24-48 hours after first opening it—which is both a testament to its delectability as well as its diminutiveness. Honestly, I could eat the stuff straight out of the jar with a spoon and be perfectly happy. But this jam really shines when served on toast with a little butter. It turns an ordinary slice of bread into a first-rate fall pastry.
Upon my initial taste, I was really thinking this spread was headed for the Pantheon. Sonia was slightly less enthused. She was torn between three and a half and four stars. I went ahead and selected four on her behalf. I'll throw out four and a half myself.
Now I'm eagerly awaiting Pear Cinnamon Cider Jam and Honey Crisp Cider Jam.
Bottom line: 8.5 out of 10.
I think this would be a great pie filling too! Mini apple pies. Just plop into wonton skins and crimp like a pie crust. Deep fry or bake til golden.
ReplyDeleteHeck yes!
DeleteIt looks like it's Stonewall Kitchen's. I thought it was cheaper there but it was for a much smaller jar. Their 11.75oz jar is on sale for $7.16, down from $7.95.
ReplyDeleteDang. Then I guess $3.99 is a bargain.
DeleteI'm a condimentaholic so you've convinced me i need this! Perhaps the "23 servings" per jar is optimistic.... i certainly don't measure how much jam i use on toast but i do know it's more than one TB.
ReplyDeleteI buy plain greek yogurt which is usually my breakfast, and i add either jam or berries to it- this looks perfect!
Ttrockwood
lol 23 servings per jar is VERY optimistic :)
DeleteI thought this item was a good value and not overpriced. I live in Seattle so maybe I'm biased. I have lived in Maryland, DC, Virginia, San Diego and Orange County California before moving to Seattle so their prices to me are not overpriced at all. And I agree with Alex that these would make awesome wonton apple pies if baked or fried. I actually have an air fryer which is awesome. I thought about combining a little bit of this product,some light cream cheese & placing a dollop of it in the center of a wonton skin or a all natural crescent roll. 10 minutes in the air fryer and poof the best quickie apple hand pie!
ReplyDeleteMmmm...this in crescent rolls with cream cheese would be amazing.
DeleteSo good...apple pie in a jar! Excellent on a peanut butter sandwhich...
ReplyDeleteI used some on a grilled cheese last week and put it on roasted pork tonight! Amazing!
ReplyDeleteMy only regret is that I only purchased two jars n gave away one to a relative. After tasting it, ran back to TJ’s for more, only to find out it’s seasonal non sold out.
ReplyDeleteOne of the best things about Trader Joe's are their seasonal items. This is one of their best. Once it hits he shelves, do not, I repeat, do not, hesitate to stock up because they're gone before you return. The life is very short, doesn't even last till after Thanksgiving, forget Christmas. I bought four jars in mid October, hopefully to carry me over the holidays. So far, it's best as a topping for NY Cheesecake. Perfect holiday dessert. Just call it Apple Cider Cheesecake and people are hooked. Love this stuff, can't wait till next year. I'll buy up the shelf as often I can.
ReplyDelete