I’m a Trader Joe’s girl, and that’s especially true in the fall. I feel like this time of year I take one step into the store and I hear the Gilmore girls theme song — that is how strong the fall vibes are at Trader Joe’s.

The store has always won my heart when it comes to fall items: it has it all, from pumpkin mac and cheese to a mini sheet cake with pumpkin spice and maple corn and sea salt. If you haven’t noticed yet, let me point out that none of these three examples even require cooking beyond microwave heating – perfect for me, a college student.

Another famous Trader Joe’s fall find? In 2023, the store reportedly introduced Teeny Tiny Apple Pies, a four-pack of mini apple pies worth $4.99, “made with juicy apples and topped with brown sugar crumble,” according to the description on the box. I recently heard about these beloved little pies, and after (finally) getting close enough to a Trader Joe’s, I had to give the returning treats a try.

What’s so great about Trader Joe’s tiny apple pies?

The small size of the cakes really attracted me. They’re the size of a cosmetic box, and honestly, they’re just really cute! Every night after dinner I like to eat something sweet, but I also don’t want it to be so heavy or filling. These cakes are It.

It’s important to note that these mini pies are actually more muffin-like than cake-like. They’re each covered in lots of crumble, so every bite tastes more doughy than filled with apples. My only criticism of this product (sorry, TJ’s!) is that I wish the apple flavor was even more pronounced compared to the brown sugar.

What’s the best way to enjoy Trader Joe’s tiny apple pies?

Teeny Tiny Apple Pies do it all: I’ve tried them both warmed and at room temperature, and they really work both ways. If you reheat them, I highly recommend adding some heavy cream. I used the Cabot Sweetened Light Whipped Cream sold at Trader Joe’s (look for it at other retailers as well). You can absolutely scoop some Trader Joe’s French Vanilla Ice Cream too.

But I actually preferred to eat these straight out of the box! In my opinion, snacking at room temperature is the way to really taste that elusive apple. Plus, these are small enough to easily take with you as a snack on the go if you don’t eat them warm!

Find it in stores: Trader Joe’s Teeny Tiny Apple Pies, $4.99 for four small pies

Have you tried Trader Joe’s Teeny Tiny Apple Pies yet? Tell us about it in the comments below.

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