I Tried Every Cereal at Trader Joe’s — These Are the Ones I’ll Be Buying Again

published Aug 21, 2021
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Credit: Joe Lingeman

Trader Joe’s now carries more than 30 types of cereals, granolas, oats, and clusters — and I made it my mission to try them all. This endeavor was about as massive as my journey to try every personal frozen dinner last year. Fortunately this year I had the benefit of inviting a few friends over to taste test all the cereal over the span of several days. 

What I love about the Trader Joe’s cereal section is that they keep a solid mix of the old classics, while also offering a sready stream of new varieties and flavors to try. Below, I attempt to help you narrow things down the next time you go shopping. These are the highlights of my official taste test.

Credit: Julian Montijo

Just the Clusters Vanilla Almond Granola Cereal, $2.99

Not quite a granola, not quite a cereal — this absolute classic Trader Joe’s breakfast item is undeniably great. It’s sweet and vanilla-y, it’s nutty, and it is delicious. It is everything I want in a cereal whether I’m eating it early in the morning, for a late-afternoon snack, or for dinner when I’m too lazy to cook.  

Credit: Julian Montijo

Grainless Granola, $3.99

This granola has no grains in it at all. I love it because it’s the perfect mix of salty and sweet. It pairs well with milk or non-dairy milk or yogurt, but it’s also equally good eaten dry as a snack.

Credit: Julian Montijo

Crunchy Cinnamon Squares, $2.99 

We all know how well Trader Joe’s can make their version of a name brand. These Crunchy Cinnamon Squares are no exception. They are sweet and cinnamon-y and make the milk worth drinking when the last bite of cereal is gone. This TJ’s copycat holds up. 

Credit: Julian Montijo

Ginger Turmeric Granola, $3.49

The turmeric flavor is pretty subtle in this granola, but it works! The granola has a gingersnap-like taste and is highly enjoyable. The best part: It’s gluten-free! If you’re looking for something beyond the usual vanilla or peanut butter granola, try this.  

Credit: Julian Montijo

Strawberry Yogurt O’s, $3.49

This breakfast cereal earns a mention because the box has real pieces of strawberry! Again, the yogurt strawberry flavor is somewhat understated, but it is a welcome hint of fruity flavor for a quick morning bite to eat.

Which are your favorite cereals from Trader Joe’s? Which did you have when you were a kid? Let us know in the comments!