Every Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Product To Try This Fall

by Kate LowethSeptember 18, 2023

BRB, time for a TJ’s run

It’s pumpkin season at Trader Joe’s! In addition to all the fall and Halloween goodies, the neighborhood market is fully stocked on all things gourd. From pumpkin crackers and cookies to hummus and espresso beans, there are plenty of brand-new products, not to mention cult faves to indulge in this year.

Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Breakfast Items

Pumpkin Cheesecake Croissants

No proofing is required for these non-traditionally shaped croissants. They're made with cheesecake-inspired filling of cream cheese, pastry cream, pumpkin purée, and a blend of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger.

A box of two is $3.99 in the freezer section.

Pumpkin O’s

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Your day is made when you start it off with Pumpkin O’s in your bowl. They are vegan and gluten-free and will run you just $2.99/box.

Pumpkin Greek Nonfat Yogurt

Sprinkle on a little pecan granola and this yogurt is the best way to start your day when there’s a chill in the air.

Pumpkin Ginger Scones

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You’ll find these cuties in the freezer section and they could not be easier to make. Just pop them in the oven and you’ll be able to enjoy their warm goodness in a flash. Pair with pumpkin butter for an over-the-top breakfast.

Pumpkin Butter

Perfectly sweet and perfectly spreadable, this fall favorite can be found near the jams and we love it on a toasted pumpkin bagel.

Pumpkin Cream Cheese

Spread some pumpkin cream cheese on your pancake bread or toasted bagel for a sweet and creamy treat.

Pumpkin Pancake & Waffle Mix

We love this one for the weekend because it’s easy to whip up and the kids will love it. There’s even a gluten-free version if that’s your jam.

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Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Lunch and Dinner Items

Gluten Free Pumpkin Ravioli

Pumpkin ravioli is a Trader Joe's fall item

You’ll find both the gluten-free and regular versions of this pasta during the fall season. We love it with an easy brown butter and sage sauce.

Pumpkin Bisque

This soup is a great option to keep on hand for the nights when sports are taking over and the kids are angry.

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Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Snacks & Desserts

Pumpkin Spice Batons

These delicate wafers are filled with pumpkin spice and will cheer up any tea time spread, we know it!

Apple & Pumpkin Hand Pies

Perfectly portable, these hand pies are great to bring along for little ones to enjoy on the go.

Pumpkin Spiced Joe-Joe’s Sandwich Cookies

Snag a sleeve of these to keep on hand for when the sweet pumpkin craving really hit.

Pumpkin Blondie Brownies

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Everyone knows that the TJ’s blondies are addictive and these ones might just top the list with their white chocolate chips.

Pumpkin Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookie Mix

Trader Joe's pumpkin chocolate chunk cookie mix

This DIY dessert mixes chocolate with a lightly pumpkin-flavored cookie mix for a taste you’re going to love.

Pumpkin Cranberry Crisps

The autumnal crackers are our first pick for a fall-themed charcuterie tray. Top with some pumpkin butter or cream cheese.

Petite Pumpkin Spice Cookies

These will be the hit of your fall-themed bento box lunch as they are shortbread cookies with pumpkin spice that are coated in yogurt. What’s not to love?

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Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Beverages

Pumpkin Spice Rooibos Tea

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Fancy a cup of tea? Settle down with this completely fall-infused rooibos blend, made with pumpkin spices and many more. It’s also naturally caffeine-free and kosher!

La Colombe Pumpkin Spice Latte

pumpkin spice latte is a Trader Joe's fall item

Forget making a second stop at Starbucks and snag your favorite fall beverage at Trader Joe’s instead. This perfectly portable Pumpkin Spice Latte is found in the cold case and you’ll want to grab a few to get you through the school pickup line.

Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Cream Liqueur

Whether you sip this over ice or added to your after-dinner cup of pumpkin spice coffee, you’ll love having this sweet liqueur in your liquor cabinet.

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Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Skincare + Home Products

Pumpkin Overnight Face Mask

Folks are obsessed with this product so you’ll want to snag one ASAP when you see it. We can’t promise that it will cure your insomnia but it just might leave your face looking refreshed in the morning.

Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Body Butter

Pumpkin body butter is a popular Trader Joe's fall item

The pumpkin beauty products are on point this year and you’ll definitely want to buy a tub or two of this body butter to get you in the mood for all those pumpkin patch and apple farm visits.

Vanilla Pumpkin Scented Candle

If you can’t bake up a pumpkin pie to get your house smelling like fall, this candle is the next best option.

Vanilla Pumpkin Hand Soap & Hand Lotion

We love this cute box as it makes the perfect autumnal hostess gift to keep on hand for when you get invited to a last-minute Halloween party.

Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Body Scrub

With a base of exfoliating brown sugar and mega-moisturizing pumpkin, sunflower, and jojoba seed oils, this body scrub is a must-buy addition to your beauty routine.

The Best Trader Joe’s Snacks to Keep You Going All Day

by Kate LowethFebruary 16, 2023

Go beyond chips and dip and try these top Trader Joe’s snacks at your next party

Whether you need new options for kid lunches or you want something fun to offer at your next moms’ night soirée, Trader Joe’s has loads of fun snackable options that go way beyond chips and guac. The cult-status market has stocked its shelves with several new snack options in the past month, and we rounded out our picks with a few tried-and-true classics.

ABC Bars

These almond butter cocoa bars have just the right amount of sweetness to go along with the 4g of protein that you'll find in each bar.

Soft & Juicy Mandarins

Keep a bag or two of these little sweeties in your minivan for when you need a sweet treat but want to avoid the candy.

Cheddar Cheese Rockets

We will literally fight anyone who doesn't think these cheese crackers are far superior to Goldfish. They just are.

Just a Handful of Pitted Salted Manzanilla Olives

Love olives but don't want to commit to a whole jar? These beauties come in a pocket-sized pack and we love to bring them on picnics when you need to satisfy those salt cravings.

Organic Mini Cheese Sandwich Crackers

You may claim that these are for the kids, but we know that parents hide them behind the Raisin Bran to keep them for themselves. Who can blame them? These crackers are tiny, salty, and full of simple ingredients.

Almond Butter Pretzels

You may have tried the peanut butter varieties of this salty snack, but we're here to say that the almond butter version is far superior.

Trader Joe's Contemplates Inner Peas

Not only is this product a clever pun but it is a pretty tasty snack. Known in the toddler circle as "crunchy peas," these are fun for dipping in a personal-sized hummus.

PB&J Bars

Bring these along for a mid-hike pick me up or keep them on hand as a sandwich alternative when you are really desperate at the end of the week.

Organic Carrots of Many Colors

White, purple, yellow & orange carrots are cut, peeled, and dehydrated to bring us this crisp snack that's topped with sea salt. The gluten-free, two ingredients snack is packed with fiber and protein and tastes great with TJ's Spinach & Kale Greek Yogurt Dip.

Crunchy Nutty Rice Bites

Kosher and gluten-free, these Crunchy Nutty Rice Bites are a tasty snack that's easy on the waistline. Crisped brown and white rice are mixed with quinoa, dried cranberries, almonds, pumpkin seeds, and cashews that are flavored with cane sugar and sea salt and enjoyed by the handful.

Chile Spiced Dried Mango

Snack on something sweet and spicy with Trader Joe's Child Spiced Dried Mango. The tropic fruit is carefully dried so that they don’t lose too much moisture and then seasoned with a blend of paprika, cayenne, sugar, and salt.

Fruit Sauce Crushers

Coming in five different flavors, Trader Joe's Fruit Sauce Crushers are great for little snackers. Each one is made with real fruit and vegetable purees, that are void of synthetically derived colors, artificial flavors, or preservatives. Perfect for lunches and on the go!

Just a Handful Omega Trek Mix

The Just a Handful Omega Trek Mix is the perfect grab-and-go snack. Each bag comes with 10 individual-size servings that include almonds, walnuts, pepitas, pecans, pistachios, and dried cranberries, which are Omega-fortified with oil extracted from their own seeds.

Organic Fruit & Seed Granola

For this granola option, Trader Joe’s decided to think outside the cereal box. Instead of relying on oats, which are a granola staple, this version is heavy on sunflower, sesame, flax, chia, and hemp seeds as well as coconut, dried cranberries, and raisins. In addition to being organic, it’s also grain and gluten-free, and vegan. Grab these clusters by the handful, or top yogurt or oatmeal for energy that will get you to lunch. TJ’s also recommends it in trail mix or even on a salad!

Citrus Melody Greek Whole Milk Yogurt

Speaking of yogurt, this Greek yogurt flavor is sure to satisfy and refresh our palettes heading into summer. If you’re a fan of lemon and lime, grapefruit, and blood orange, this is the protein-packed yogurt for you.

Creamy Tomato Soup Seasoned Crackers

Anyone who fondly remembers Trader Joe’s adventurous Pumpkin Soup Crackers will be pleased to know they’re at it again with these gluten-free soup crackers, made of brown rice, rolled oats, and seasoned like your favorite tomato soup. And just as a bowl of creamy tomato soup goes perfectly with grilled cheese, these crackers and sliced cheddar may well have been made for each other.

Coconut Sesame Seed Clusters

When hunger strikes between meals, we usually crave something sweet and easy—which doesn’t always lead to the healthiest choices (a whole bag of chocolate bark, anyone?). Trader Joe’s new Coconut Sesame Seed Clusters deliver sweetness and lasting energy in a convenient snack bag you can throw in your bag or keep in the car—and this yummy concoction won’t melt as the days warm up!

Spud Crunchies

If the kids (or you) can’t get enough French fries, try out this simple snack version. Comprised only of U.S. Russet potatoes, canola oil, and salt, you know what you’re getting (rather than the additives often on regular fries these days, including gluten.). The package alone is too adorable not to try.

Crispy Crunchy Okra

Many parents may already know that Trader Joe’s Crispy Crunchy Broccoli Florets are an awesome way to get greens into the kids, but the store is now serving up an okra version. Eat them plain or substitute them for crackers with your favorite dip.

Organic Chocolate Chip Chewy Granola Bars

Sometimes, everyone just needs some chocolate. Getting it with only eight grams of sugar is a good deal, one for which you can thank these organic and kid-approved granola bars.

Organic Fruit Wraps

If you’ve been known to grab one of the kid’s fruit leathers stashed in your bag, these are truly 100% fruit, making them healthy and delicious for all. Flavor options include fruit juices or purees from apples, raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, and wild berries. And as popular as they’ve become over the last decade they’ve been making them, Trader Joe’s hasn’t raised their price once.

Freeze-dried Fruit

If you have a kid who prefers fruit crunchy, you likely already know that Trader Joe’s offers an amazing assortment of freeze-dried options—strawberries, blueberries, bananas, Fuji apples, and raspberries are usually in stock. While the water may be gone, all that fruity nutrition remains. And they’re always in season!

Additional reporting by Jennifer Massoni Pardini

Last-Minute Holiday Gifts You Can Grab at Trader Joe’s

by Kate LowethDecember 7, 2022

There’s something for everyone on your list at your neighborhood Trader Joe’s

The holiday season is here—are you looking for that last-minute gift idea? No need to make a separate run to the mall, just head to your local Trader Joe’s. The grocer has the perfect selection of quick gifts, including Trader Joe’s gift cards, beauty products, home decor, and more. Your recipients will be thrilled with whatever you pick out for them—we know it. And don’t forget to pick up the best Trader Joe’s holiday products while you’re there!

Felt Ball Wreath

What says "I love Trader Joe's and I love the holidays" more than a festive wreath made out of colored or white felt balls? Gift it with a bottle of wine. $19.99

Gummy Bear Flavored Lip Duo

New for 2022: The word on TikTok is that this is a pretty close dupe to the favorite set from Lineage but we'll leave that judgment to you. We love this option as a stocking stuffer. Get it for $6.99

Crackling Red Fruits in the Forest Candle

New for 2022: These have a wood wick so you'll think you're sitting by the fire this holiday season. $9.99

Grump Tree

Whether you’re feeling a little Grinchy or you’re short on space to decorate, these adorable little trees are the perfect accent to warm your home and your heart. The skinny evergreen Cyprus trees are wrapped in a red ribbon and topped with a single red ornament. Perfect to bring to your neighbor's Christmas party. $9.99

Moisturizing Lip Balm Set

The mango flavor tops our list but with six to choose from, you'll definitely find one that suits your mood. $5.99

Hot Cocoa Polar Bear

New for 2022: These take hot cocoa bombs to the next level and we.are.here.for.it. They make the perfect stocking stuffer or gift to go along with your gift card. $1.99

Olive Wood Cutting Boards

We love these for charcuterie any time of year and Trader Joe's has a pretty epic cheese selection to get the party started. $12.99

Chocolate Passport

Trader Joe's gifts everyone will love — Kate Loweth

Go on a journey of indulgence with these too-cute boxes of chocolates that take you to Peru, Ecuador, Venezuela, The Dominican Republic, Ghana, Papua New Guinea, Sao Tome, and Tanzania. Perfect for the chocolate lover on your list. $9.99

Paperwhites

Trader Joe's gifts: paperwhite bulbs — Kate Loweth

These are an inexpensive addition to any gift this holiday season and they are pretty fool-proof as well. $3.99

Boozy Little Chocolate Truffles

Whether you gift these to the mailman or your child's teacher, we know they'll love these tiny chocolates with a kick. $6.99

Merry & Bright Skin Care Trio

Vitamin C serum, face mask, and lip balm are the favorite products that make it into this set for just $9.99.

Candle Trio

Cranberry pine, fresh currant, and nutmeg are the holiday scents that make up this fun trio. $7.99

Hand-Woven Newspaper Basket

These baskets are a great size for displaying those holiday books by the fireplace or for tucking in a snuggly blanket. $6.99

Olive Wood Bowl Trio

For $29.99, you can snag this set of three that's perfect for displaying your Jingle Jangle at your holiday party.

Jingle Jangle

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Cookies, chocolate, candies, pretzels, oh my! The coveted Jingle Jangle tin makes the perfect hostess gift (or maybe even a little gift to yourself!).

Find it in the seasonal section for $10.

Hot Chocolate Sticks

Perfect as a family gift or to bring for a hostess, these hot chocolate sticks will power any giftee through the chilly winter. They are made with 46% dark cocoa, with cocoa butter and pure cane sugar and fashioned into 3.5-inch sticks that dissolve when stirred for two to three minutes.

You can pick up a 7 ounce box for $3.29.

Cookie Mixes

Whether you break up this trio of baking mixes or give them all to one person, you can't go wrong with TJ's variety of cookie mixes. After all, the holidays are all about getting your bake on, but not everyone has the desire to make cookies from scratch. Perfect for teachers or neighbors, pair a mix with a cute dishcloth or whisk and you've got a fun and festive gift! This year, Trader's has Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Cookie Mix and a delicious Pfeffernüsse Cookie Mix.

Find these mixes in the baking aisle starting at $2.99 each.

Felted Wool Trivets

Multiple colors are available this year, perfect for dressing up your holiday table. $4.99

Peppermint Cream, Gingerbread & Egg Nog Liqueur

Want to spice up that holiday beverage? Just top it off with a little Peppermint Cream, Gingerbread, or Egg Not Liqueur! Made with vodka, these come in at $7.99.

Felted Wool Garland

Three colors to choose from and some are even seeing a mini version of these, perfect for your Elf on the Shelf holiday display. $9.99

Mistletoe

Meet me under the mistletoe! This preserved product is meant to last the entire season and would make a sweet gift for the loved ones in your life.

A box is just $2.49 and can be found near the front of the store.

Trader Joe's Gift Card

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Can you ever go truly wrong with a gift card? Let your family and friends grab their fave products on their own time when you wrap up a Trader Joe's gift card that can be used in any store at any time.

Fantastic Florals

No need to spend copious amounts of moolah on a seasonal floral bouquet, especially when you hit up Trader's. Before you check out, sample the amazing holiday bouquets, classic bunches and glam greenery that always lines the buckets of the grocer's floral department. You'll never need to show up at a holiday shindig empty-handed again!

Wine

TJ's has long been known for its excellent and well-priced array of wine and this holiday you can take full advantage. Whether your giftee loves a good import or prefers a subtle sauvignon blanc, you can easily shop the vino department with confidence that whatever you choose, it has Joe's stamp of approval––and it won't break the bank.

Cheese, Please

Good Trader Joe's gifts include a variety of cheese — Trader Joe's

Cinnamon Toscata, Chimay Autumn Cheese, Baked Blood Orange Chocolate Chip Ricotta––these are just a few of the decadent cheeses at your fingertips at TJ's. Pick up a few unique wedges and pair with chocolates, crackers or wine for the perfect hostess gift!

Chocolate

There's something for everyone for the holidays at Trader Joe's! Sink your teeth into Dark Chocolate Almond Butter Cups, the Taste Test of Caramels or Dark Chocolate Liqueur Cherries. Keep an eye out for specialty assortments, too!

Gourmet Coffee & Tea

Help your loved ones cozy up this holiday with beautifully packaged teas and coffees that only Trader Joe's can do. Tins of teas and artful bags of coffee make great gifts that are easy to snag on your next TJ run.

All the Nog Products

Egg nog, almond nog, Greek whole milk yogurt egg nog––oh my! Nothing says the holidays like a nosh-worthy nog product! Pick up a few to wish your fam and friends a festive season on your weekly grocery run.

Candy Cane Joe-Joe's

We've yet to meet a person who doesn't love Trader Joe's coveted Candy Cane Joe-Joe's! Loved one, neighbor, teacher or friend, you can't go wrong picking up a few boxes of these to keep around for last-minute gifts. Top with a red bow––or maybe a half-gallon of milk––there's no wrong way to Joe Joe.

Additional reporting by Karly Wood

Mug Shots: The Best Places to Sip Hot Chocolate in Chicago

by rtanlichenOctober 21, 2022

Winter in Chicago is all about parkas and your kid’s mittened hand clutching a glorious cup of hot cocoa. The weather gets downright artic some days, but a steaming cup of hot chocolate will definitely make Jack Frost’s nipping a whole lot easier to handle. If your kids love cocoa—or need a good introduction to it—check out these local restaurants or cafes that make their own from scratch. Scroll to find our favorites.

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Katherine Anne Confections

When this local confectioner isn’t busy making mouthwatering truffles and caramels, it's drawing people with delicious hot chocolate in flavors like bittersweet, semisweet or salted caramel topped with homemade ‘mallows. The secret? Steamed whole milk and a cream-top cream that has 45% butterfat.

2475 W. Armitage Ave., Bucktown; Online: katherine-anne.com

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Mindy's Bakery

Previously named Mindy's HotChocolate, Chef Mindy Segal of Mindy's Bakery switched things up and is now specializing in handcrafted sourdough bagels and bialys, babka, za'atar challah and seasonal pastries. Lucky for us, Mindy still has a sweet spot for the roasty-toasty drink she serves with a house-made marshmallow on top.

1747 N. Damen Ave., Bucktown; Online: mindysbakery.com

Eataly

It was named one of the five best cups of hot chocolate in NYC by CBS New York. No need to travel to get your own cup, order the cioccolata con panna at their Lavazza café, which is rich, dark, and sweet. It's a perfect place to take a pause from holiday shopping or while your table is being set in the restaurants upstairs.

43 E. Ohio St., Loop; Online: eataly.com

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Firecakes

Oh, yes, Firecakes offers more than donuts. The next time you head here for a chocolate old fashioned or a season favorite, double the decadence with Chef Jonathan Fox's frothed-to-order, Parisian-style hot chocolate. It balances Belgian bittersweet chocolate with organic milk, a touch of vanilla and cane sugar, and is topped with a house-made, Tahitian vanilla bean marshmallow. Be on the lookout for the roaming bakery they loving refer to as Billy the Truck.

Locations in River North, Lincoln Park, Naperville & Oak Park or look for Billy the Truck; Online: firecakesdonuts.com

Little Branch Cafe

Before or after a trip to The Field Museum, head to this neighborhood cafe for a warm-up. It serves creative American favorites for breakfast, lunch or dinner, and is great brunch alternative to nearby Yolk, which always has a longer wait. No matter the time of day, you can't go wrong with hot chocolate made from a tasty combo of vanilla syrup, Ghirardelli chocolate powder and milk, topped with whipped cream and cocoa powder.

1251 S. Prairie Ave., Prairie Avenue Historic District; Online: littlebranchcafe.com

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Ghirardelli Chocolate Co.

The San Francisco-based icon is known for its chocolate bars. It also knows a thing or two about the drinkable version. Stop by its Mag Mile location for chocolate mocha, double chocolate or chocolate caramel hot cocoa (or some seasonal favorites!). While you're on a roll, pick up the mixes to take home—and don't forget chocolate and caramel sauces.

830 N. Michigan Ave., Downtown; Online: ghirardelli.com

Uncommon Ground

Chances are you're already familiar with this restaurant known for its organic food and neighborhood charm. The hot chocolate is a new reason to try it. Made from omanhene chocolate and topped with whipped cream, you can have it served in a soup bowl for great slurp-ability.

3800 N. Clark St., Lakeview & 1401 W. Devon Ave., Edgewater; Online: uncommonground.com

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Xoco

While its name is the Mexican slang for "little sister," chef Rick Bayless’ restaurant is a big shot in the hot chocolate scene. The Mexican hot chocolate is made from cacao imported from Tabasco, which is put through a grinding process more meticulous than the judges on Top Chef Masters. One sip and your whole family will be crying olé!

449 N. Clark St., River North; Online: rickbayless.com

Julius Meinl Cafe

Sipping hot chocolate at the Euro-inspired cafe is a special experience. When you dine in, drinks are served on silver platters with glasses of water on the side. The smooth, rich flavor of the hot chocolate is also worth talking about. It's made from steamed milk and milk chocolate powder shipped from Austria. Ask for it topped with whipped cream and homemade marshmallows.

1920 W. Montrose Ave., Ravenswood & 3601 N. Southport Ave.; Online: juliusmeinlchicago.com

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Le Chocolat du Bouchard

Get ready for sugar bliss. This Naperville cafe serves a wide variety of decadent hot chocolates, along with cases of baked and chocolate goodies. We highly recommend their carrot cake, one of the best around.

127-129 S. Washington St., Naperville, Online: lechocolatdubouchard.com

— Maria Chambers & Anli Chen

Thoughtful Teacher Gifts You Can Find at the Grocery Store

by Amber GuetebierAugust 17, 2022

Let the teachers know you appreciate all their hardwork with these thoughtful, easy teacher gifts you can snag on you next shopping list.

Teachers are pretty much our saving grace, but with the hecticness of the end of the school year (and multiple teachers to thank) it can get tricky to pull off DIY projects or not blow your budget. The secret? Pair up simple, affordable items from the grocery aisles to make extra-special teacher gifts. Just add a homemade card or note from the kids and you are good to go.

Tea & Biscuits

A beautiful box of tea is always a lovely gift, but you can one-up the package by adding a box of simple cookies in the English biscuit style: We love green tea and ginger snaps; black tea and lemon thins; chai and snickerdoodles, but there’s really no wrong pairing here!

Flowers & a Reusable Tote Bag

Don't just give flowers and call it a day—the simple addition of sending them in a reusable tote makes the gift both beautiful and practical, long after the stem fades. Tote here!

Gift Card & Donuts

A gift card is always a welcome item, but you can up the joy by pairing it with a few donuts. Who doesn't like donuts, right? Try and find a gift card for somewhere special—teachers always spend their own money on school supplies so skip the Target or Amazon cards and go for a local restaurant or coffee house where they can really treat themselves. Or give them a grocery gift card so they can spend the money on special supplies (or wine) for the holidays.

Wine & a (Trashy) Novel

Let your kiddo's teacher know that you want them to really relax and unwind over the winter break by combining two of the world's greatest decompression tools: wine and novels. Most grocery stores have the latest paperback sensation and a bodice-ripper might not be as looked-down on as you'd think. It makes for an adorable gift pairing, that's for sure.

Real Vanilla Beans & Cocoa (& Marshmallows!)

The whole cocoa and marshmallows thing is great, but why not up your game by adding either real, vanilla extract or the actual whole vanilla beans to the gift bag? Drop in a high-quality powdered chocolate to the gift bag, marshmallows and maybe some cinnamon sticks too.

Tip: If you slice open a vanilla bean and place in on a tray in your oven at a lower temp for 30-45 minutes, you'll get a house that smells like cookies without having to bake!

Sparkling Water & Lemons

You can’t go wrong with a bottle of fancy bubble water: look for one in a glass jar to make it uber-special and then add a few fresh lemons to the mix. Paired together in a small basket, this simple gesture is cheerful and healthy at the same time.

Reusable Water Bottle & Cash (or Gift Card)

Snag a high-quality reusable water bottle for your favorite teacher and put a little hidden surprise inside. You can also add some candy and a sweet note magnet.

Champagne & Alka Seltzer

Give the gift of celebration and recovery! Assuming your teacher partakes in a glass or two on the weekends, a nice bottle of wine or champagne is always a treat. Add box of effervescent relief of a different kind and you can make it a funny-but-practical gift, too. Warning: do not give this gift if you or your giftee do not have a sense of humor.

Chocolate & Magazines

Whether it’s a box of chocolates or your favorite local artisan bar, give the gift of “treat yo’self” directly to your favorite teacher by pairing chocolate (or another candy) with fun magazines. Choose 3-4 of the latest issues on a couple different subjects: if you know your teacher’s hobbies you can tailor the stack or just go for general coolness (House Beautiful; Conde Naste Travel; National Geographic). Tie the magazine stack together with twine and tuck the chocolate bar inside.

Honey & Goat Cheese

Eating natural honey is said to be good for staving off illness and allergies, and the soothing properties for a teacher’s throat after a day in the classroom can’t be beat. Take this treat from sweet to indulgent by adding a nice round of goat cheese: bonus props if you can find the kind with edible wildflowers pressed in.

Lemon Curd & Crumpets

For a proper tea time, package a nice lemon curd or jam with traditional crumpets. If your grocery store doesn’t have crumpets, you can opt for nice basket of muffins and scones.

Balsamic Vinegar & Strawberries

It’s hard to go wrong with fresh fruit, especially something as perfect as strawberries but you can elevate that basket with a simple addition. Include a small bottle of an aged balsamic vinegar. If you’re feeling up for it, try writing onto an index card this simple recipe for marinated strawberries. It’s shockingly delicious.

Candy & Mason Jar

Help teach keep her blood sugar up in the afternoons with a sweet gift in a reusable jar! Also, gummy bears + blue Ball jar = the perfect gift. Any kind of Mason or Ball jar will do, of course. Just fill it up with colorful bulk candy such as gummies, individually wrapped caramels, Jelly Bellys, licorice, etc. You can buy a set of jars and make these gifts for all the teachers in your life.

Sea Salt & Olive Oil

A nice coarse sea salt is a handy kitchen item: some grocery stores sell them in bulk and include Hawaiian red clay; pink Himalayan salt and more. Choose your favorite and then snag a bottle of olive oil to go with: look for an extra-virgin and stick to a smaller bottle so you don’t break your bank.

Coffee & Raw Sugar

For many teachers, coffee goes with everything (especially grading papers and report cards) but even if you didn’t have time to paint a mug in advance you can still pair a pound of coffee with something spectacular. Look in the sugar aisle for a nice raw sugar, cane sugar or turbinado sugar.

Apples & Brie

The traditional teacher gift of a shiny red apple gets an upgrade when you place a triple-cream brie in the mix. It’s a simple pairing that never goes wrong: we’re pretty sure if your teacher doesn’t like brie there’s someone in his house who does.

Vodka & Olives

This one is only for a teacher you know well enough to know that they drink vodka! You don’t have to go top shelf, just make sure to steer clear of the bottom shelf. Grab some queen stuffed olives for their martini mixer and you may just become the most popular parent on campus.

Crusty Bread & Olive Tapenade

You can grab this one the night before or even the morning-of gift giving because the fresher the bread the better. Choose a crusty, rich loaf and then pair with a spreadable olive tapenade. You can also look for a rich roasted red pepper version, or opt for artichokes. The point is, give them something delicious to spread on their bread that screams “special occasion” and not mayo.

Fresh Oranges & Tissue

Fight cold and flu season (which is year round for teachers!) with a big basket of fresh oranges. Add in a box of tissue (go for the kind with lotion infused in a fancy-patterned box) and you’ll not only give them a chuckle, you’ll actually give them something they will use. Like, right away.

Epsom Salts & Cupcakes

There’s self-soothing, and then there is self-soothing. Put the bath salts in a beautiful jar (ahem, Mason jars to the rescue again!) with a label that says what the contents are (bath salts) for soothing weary muscles and then get a package of mini-cupcakes or bite-sized brownies. Tell your teacher to take a bath and eat a brownie, because they deserve it!

Best Brunches with Early Opening Hours

by Kate LowethJuly 26, 2022

When you are on the tot clock, the earlier the better for brunch and thankfully, long-gone are the days when an early brunch spot opened at 11 a.m. We’ve pulled together our favorite local breakfasts that offer kid-friendly favorites like pancakes, waffles and scrambled eggs for families whose morning routines might begin with the sunrise. Hit up one of these and then head to a local favorite playground—or better yet—one of our favorite museum exhibits—to burn off all that good-for-you energy.

Best Brunch Spots in San Francisco

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The Ferry Building Marketplace: Early birds know that the Ferry Building is full of breakfast options for early risers. With gorgeous views of the Bay and a playground right across the street, it’s a no-brainer breakfast spot when you have the kids in tow. Here are a bunch of our early morning faves located in this iconic spot:

Daily Driver: This original Dogpatch bagel shop is also at the Ferry Building serving up delicious bagels, butter and cream cheese. Their wood-fired bagel recipe isn’t NY or Montreal style, but as unique as the Bay Area. Get a bagel and schmear to-go and sit outside watching the birds greet the morning. If you happen to be in the Dogpatch area, feel free to stop by and grab a bag for the week.

Open: Mon.-Sat., 8 a.m.-2 p.m. & Sun. 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

Donut Farm: Founded in 2006 by local musician and activist Josh Levine, Donut Farm produces a range of handcrafted vegan and organic donuts, making it the perfect stop for a guilt-free treat. Donut Farm is dedicated to minimizing its footprint, meticulously selecting local and sustainably produced ingredients beyond a standard most any other donut shop can claim.

Open: Every day at 8 a.m.

Grande Creperie: Crepes are the perfect brunch item, and with sweet and savory crepes enjoyed outside on a beautiful Sunday morning, you might want to bookmark this spot now. Directly from Le Marais Bakery, husband and wife duo are bringing France to the Bay Area with buckwheat galettes and sweet crepes.

Open: Tues.- Sun., 8 a.m.- 3 p.m.

Best Brunch Spots Located Just Outside the Ferry Building

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Biscuit Bender: No longer in the Ferry Building and in its new location in the Dogpatch, this bakery prides itself on bringing the Southern favorites to the Bay Area. Owner Van Dao offers a unique variety of homemade buttermilk biscuits—from sweet (peanut butter chocolate chip, lemon poppy seed, Mexican hot chocolate) to savory (wild mushroom, bacon maple, corn jalapeno). Biscuit accompaniments are also available, including flavored butter and jams.

Open: Tues.-Thurs. & Sat.-Sun., 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Boogaloos: Get to this Mission favorite early to avoid crowds. No need to distract the kids until the food arrives here—artwork and colorful mosaics cover all the walls. This is also a great choice if you are a vegan or vegetarian (the Soyrizo-N-Eggs is fantastic!).

Open: Every day from 8 a.m.–3 p.m.

Sweet Maple: Fast service and organic ingredients are the game’s name at this Lower Pacific Heights eatery known for its spicy and sweet Millionaire’s Bacon. Kids will love the pancake with a choice of bacon, pork-lime sausage or chicken mango sausage. Parents will love the bottomless mimosas or the double kick of the espresso martini.

Open: Every day from 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

Beach Chalet: This spot wins for best views hands down and is also open at 9 a.m. to get your day started right. You can’t go wrong with the lemon ricotta beignets or the baked French toast. Savory fans gravitate to the corned beef hash. You can often find live music here and it’s a great spot to kick off a day exploring Golden Gate Park.

Open: Every day at 9 a.m.

Best Brunch Spots in the East Bay

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Sam’s Log Cabin: What kid wouldn’t want to eat in a quaint little log cabin? While the location is historic (the cabin has been there since 1930), the food is modern and there are many organic options. Standouts here include the Cinnamon Currant French Toast and Biscuits and Gravy. Also popular on the breakfast menu are Pork Braised Collard Greens White Corn grits and House-Made Scones.

Insider Tip: If you happen to be there on a sunny morning, grab a seat in the great back patio area.

Open: Sat. & Sun., 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Café M: This spacious, airy establishment is right in the heart of the Fourth Street shopping area. It’s a great place to stop and fuel up on California-style cuisine before hitting the shops with the kids. Great items to try include Cinnamon Stuffed French Toast (complete with mascarpone filling and banana compote), Aztec Huevos Rancheros and Grapefruit Mimosas.

Insider Tip: If there is a wait, Café M can text you when your table is ready.

Open: Every day at 8:30 a.m.

Rockridge Cafe:This diner-style eatery has been serving early morning favorites since 1973. Try the Ricotta Special with ricotta cakes, eggs and bacon, or hook the kids up with the kiddie-sized challah french toast. They have plenty of high chairs and stroller parking to accommodate all the families that come.

Insider Tip: Get there before 9 a.m. to avoid crowds.

Open: Every day from 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Best Brunch Spots on the Penninsula

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Crepevine: This Peninsula favorite packs in families for brunch and with good reason—their crepes are a treat both parents and kids will love. The menu is extensive, but a favorite is the Burlingame Sweet Crepe made with strawberries, caramelized bananas, Nutella and chocolate sauce. They also have egg scrambles, omelets, pancakes and wraps, and the kid’s menu has popular items like pancakes and eggs. The Safari Cooler (orange, carrot and apple) is a must-try.

Note: Crepevine has several locations throughout the Bay Area, there’s probably one near you, ready to serve you shortly after the sun comes up.

Open: Every day at 7:30 a.m.

Apple Fritter: Apple Fritter is a very popular San Mateo breakfast spot and its traditional American fare brings in the crowds. If you’re hungry, order the Tooth Fairy (three slices of thick egg bread dipped in house-made cinnamon vanilla batter, served with three pieces of bacon and two eggs). There’s also plenty of tyke-friendly food. The star of this place is the donuts. The Bacon Maple Bar rivals Voo Doo Donuts in Portland.

Open: Sat. & Sun., 8 a.m.–2 p.m., Mon.-Fri. 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Millbrae Pancake House: The Millbrae Pancake House has been an institution since 1959. Walking in you’ll notice the vintage wallpaper, the old-fashioned booths and the classic surrounding décor. It’s so old-school that it’s hip again. The food is good, the service is fast and the Smiley Face pancakes are a hit with the kids. Bonus: there’s breakfast all day here!

Open: Every day at 7 a.m.

Best Brunch Spots in the South Bay

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Stacks: Stacks’ menu is large and varied in the classic American breakfast tradition and the pancakes are ridiculously good here. They also have great ‘Breakfast Basics’ options where you can customize your eggs, potatoes and bagel to include whatever you like—perfect for picky kiddos. Two great things about Stacks are its quick service and the fact that if you order a cup of coffee, they bring you an entire carafe full!

Good to know: If you encounter a wait here on a Sunday, put your name in and then stroll through the nearby Campbell farmer’s market.

Open: Every day at 7 a.m.

Hobee’s: Since the early 1980s, families have dined at Hobee’s for their famous blueberry coffee cake and cinnamon-orange tea. There’s the original location right across from De Anza College in Cupertino as well as five other spots in the South Bay/Peninsula. It has a super laid-back vibe that’s perfect for semi-unruly small diners.

Open: Every day at 8 a.m.

Scrambl’z: This is a restaurant to be enjoyed by kids. From the moment you walk in, everything you see will delight them—including a converted VW bus in the dining room. The space is colorful, loud and completely unique. There’s a great kid’s menu here with lots of options for little ones and an over-the-top hot chocolate. While there’s plenty of seating inside, they also have a great patio in the back with picnic tables.

Tip: You can call ahead to put your name in or to reserve the VW bus! So cool!

Open: Every day at 7 a.m.

Los Gatos Cafe:This local cafe is a mainstay on the Los Gatos main drag. It’s a fun, casual and relaxed atmosphere. The menu here is HUGE. Kids even have their own menu where they can pick how they want their pancakes—Mickey Mouse, bunny rabbit or dinosaur style!

Open: Every day at 7 a.m.

Best Brunch Spots in the North Bay & Marin

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The Half Day Cafe: The Half Day Café is a family-run business located in a historic building in Kentfield. This beautiful brick gem dates back all the way to the 1930s. They have all the brunch options-omelets, pancakes, even Green Eggs and Ham. Don’t forget to check out the weekly specials!

Open: Mon.-Fri., 7:30 a.m., Sat. & Sun., 8 a.m.

Barefoot Cafe: This cute neighborhood café offers a little bit of everything for breakfast—from fresh Equator coffee to organic produce to the delicious strawberry waffles. The all-fruit smoothies are a must-try. The Mickey Mouse pancakes here are a hit with the kids!

Open: Sat. & Sun., 7 a.m.–3 p.m.

Poggio: If you haven’t introduced the kids to the divinity that is the Liege waffle, now is the time. Poggio offers these breakfast treats topped with Nutella (everyone’s fave) or maple syrup. Egg lovers can indulge in the frittata for the day to get their fill of veggies.

Open: Every day at 6:30 a.m.

Comforts: Comforts is one of San Anselmo’s beloved eateries. Because it is so popular, you may have to wait for a table on the patio or in the restaurant, but the wait is worth it (and all the better reasons to show up at 8). The bunch menu changes weekly and is always filled with healthy and fresh options.

Insider Tip: Don’t leave without checking out the dessert cases and grab a cookie to go!

Open: Every day at 8 a.m.

—Melanie Ulate & Sandra Lee

22 Desserts You Need to Try Tonight

by Gabby CullenMarch 5, 2022

Hot days call for cold treats, and there’s no time like the present to swap out your go-to Otter Pops for a new dessert that’s perfect for kids. From delicious frozen cookie dough bites to oat-milk chip ice cream, we’ve found a few new products to infuse a little fun into your llife. Keep reading to see them all.

Click here to save this list on Pinterest.

Home Dough

It's pretty much everyone's dream to have frozen cookie dough ready to pop in the oven for a warm treat. Home Dough totally gets that convenience is key and delivers in the taste category as well. With Home Dough, fresh-baked, better-than-homemade cookies are always just ten minutes away. Choose from Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Toffee, or Molasses Ginger Spice, all made from tried and true, mom-approved recipes and the same simple ingredients you’d find in your cupboard. They even come in gluten-free varieties! We suggest you order up a variety pack and try them today!

$18 for 8 cookie balls, $48 for a 24-ball variety pack. Available here.

Enlightened Sundae Cones

Sundae cones are what summer is made of and Enlightened is here to bring this favorite treat to your home with less sugar than regular cones. You'll get a crunchy cone filled with frozen Green yogurt or light ice cream and topped with nuts and chocolate. A final surprise? The chocolate-filled tip is there for your last bite. Order them online or find them at a store near you.

Killer Creamery's Sammies

For a treat that doesn't have a lot of sugar but tons of taste, we love the new Sammies from Killer Creamery. Offered in chocolate or vanilla ice cream with the classic cookie outside, with only 120 calories, no added sugar and only two to three net carbs, you'll feel just fine having one after dinner!

Available at stores nationwide, $5.99 - $6.99 for six.

Bubbies Vegan Mochi & Cookie Dough Bites

Two new options from Bubbies will get you starting the summer off right.

The irresistible combination of ice cream wrapped in a decadent chocolate chip cookie dough is easy to eat—and even easier to enjoy! Like all Bubbies products, the Cookie Dough Bites are made with all-natural ingredients, are Certified Gluten-Free, Kosher dairy, no rBST, and Non-GMO!
Those looking to add a vegan treat to their dessert lineup will love these new additions to Bubbies mochi repertoire. You'll find mango, chocolate and strawberry vegan mochi that enrobe the non-dairy frozen dessert in perfectly sweetened mochi dough.

Available here

Daiya’s Dessert Bars

Daiya’s Dessert Bars make for the perfect treat for a hot day. These indulgent, chocolate-dipped, frozen dessert bars are completely plant-based and so tasty, parents will want to keep them for themselves!

Get them here.

Nubocha

If you want indulgent taste without the guilt, Nubocha is here for you. This low-sugar, non-dairy gelato brand was co-founded by famed Italian chocolatier Gianluca Franzoni, and it is reimagining gelato with health and wellness in mind.

Its low-sugar, dairy-free recipes consist of just three main ingredients: premium varietals of nuts or cacao, pure spring water, and allulose, a rare, zero calorie sugar found naturally in foods like raisins, figs and maple syrup. The simplicity of Nubocha’s recipes and its unique use of spring water as a base, allow each thoughtfully sourced ingredient to shine, offering a healthier, flavorful gelato with no added sugar and less than 350 calories per pint.

Order here

Beckon Ice Cream Cups

Beckon Ice Cream’s lactose-free ice cream is the perfect cold dessert for your summer gatherings. They just released perfectly-sized snack cups in flavors vanilla (with rainbow sprinkles in the lid), dark chocolate (with brownie chunks in the lid) and mint chip. These portable cups are a great option to bring in your cooler for your next park picnic.

Shop online or find Beckon in a store near you.

ReThink Ice Cream

If you love ice cream but it doesn't necessarily love you, ReThink has you covered. All of ReThink’s ice cream flavors are made with A2/A2 Dairy to be extra digestible. They're diabetic-friendly, Keto, gluten-dree, lactose-free, and made with all-natural ingredients including collagen, prebiotic fiber, and green tea extract for antioxidants.

We sampled the current flavors of Vanilla Supreme, Chocolate Majesty, Mint with Chocolate Flakes, Chocolate with Almond Butter, Coffee Hazelnut, Lemon Poppy Seed, Cardamom Pistachio, Almond with Chocolate Flakes, and Black Cherry Vanilla. Chocolate Majesty stood out as the kid favorite while Lemon Poppy Seed was much loved by the adults.

Find ReThink at a store near you.

Must Love

Attention, your new summer obsession is here! Check out Must Love—a new non-dairy, GMO-free, plant-based ice cream that will be the perfect addition to your freezer stash. Must Love is now available at Sprouts and select Whole Foods stores, with wider distribution ahead! Must Love offers two different bases: bananas and oat milk. The banana base is made with only bananas, coconut milk and dates while the oat milk base with only oat milk, coconut milk and dates. Cashew Cookie Dough is a kid favorite and Choco Choco Chip is for all you chocolate lovers out there.

Coconut Bliss Cups of Joy

If you are looking for a plant-based frozen dessert to add to your freezer this summer, you definitely need to try Coconut Bliss. The brand’s first ever single serve ice cream indulgence, Cups of Joy, are perfect for kids (and their parents) looking for a convenient and delicious plant-based treat. The cups are available in two flavors, Dark Chocolate and Madagascan Vanilla Bean. The four-pack retails for $8.99.

Want a little hands-on fun for your family's dessert? Coconut Bliss’s at-home ice cream machine, the Bliss Maker™, brings their convenient plant-based scoops directly to your home. Order up the bundle and you'll also get ice cream mix that's ready to pop in the machine!

N!CK's Swedish Style Light Ice Cream

Amazon's #1 ice cream N!CK's Swedish Style Light Ice Cream has expanded its vegan line to include four new flavors that you're going to love: Vanilj Bean, Strawbär Kräm, Hazelnöt Fudge and Peanöt Butter Fudge.

Perfect for your summer sundae party, these flavors are joining the line up that tastes and melts just like dairy, but is still lactose and animal-free thanks to Perfect Day technology. Perfect Day’s real milk protein is made without animals, so kids can enjoy the real taste, texture, and nutrition of dairy—but produced sustainably and without the downsides of factory farming, lactose, hormones, or antibiotics. A dessert that you can feel good serving your family!

Buy them at nicks.com

Simply Indulgent from Outshine®

Your fave Outshine bars are getting some new flavors! Made with fresh milk for that creamy goodness, each bar contains five grams of protein, 25% less sugar than regular frozen dairy bars and four delicious flavor choices. Enjoy Strawberry and Mango, which are made with real fruit, in addition to Chocolate and Coffee, which offers 20mg of caffeine!

Available at retailers nationwide starting Spring of 2021.

Turkey Hill's 2021 Lineup

Get ready to sit down and cool off with Turkey Hill's new line of novelties that include 16 products like Ice Cream Cookie Sandwiches, Fruit & Cream Bars and Layered Sundae Cups. With flavors that include Caramel Brownie, Chocolate Cream Pie, Peanut Butter, Choco Mint Chip, Coconut, Orange and Strawberry Lemonade there is something for everyone.

You can find all the new products at retailers nationwide.

So Delicious Dairy Free Light Frozen Desserts

So Delicious Dairy Free has just launched its brand new Light Frozen Desserts! Each pint is less than 330 calories and they are certified gluten-free, vegan action certified and non-GMO Project Verified. Current flavors include Salted Caramel, Peanut Butter, Strawberry, Cocoa Chip, Mint Chip and Tiramisu.

Available in grocery stores nationwide for a suggested retail price of $5.49 per pint.

Popsicle Fruit Twisters

Popsicle's newest sweet treat combines real fruit and milk. The twisty popsicle has a surprise fruit filling and is just 70 calories each. Enjoy two fresh flavors that include Strawberry, Blueberry & Vanilla Swirl and Peach, Raspberry & Vanilla Swirl.

Available at Target for $4.99

Mochidoki Mochi Ice Cream

Talk about the perfect bite! These mochi-covered ice cream bites from Mochidoki are a new favorite summer treat with kid- and parent-approved flavors like vanilla chip, Thai tea, mango and salted caramel. At just 80 calories a piece, they are full of quality, natural and non-GMO ingredients, and are less messy than typical ice cream treats. They are currently available for purchase at their NYC stores and can be shipped to 26 states plus D.C. (with more to come).

Purchase yours here.

Sweet Nothings Frozen Smoothie Cups

Each one of these 3.5 ozs cups is filled with healthy ingredients like chia and flax seeds and organic fruits. There are no artificial flavors, they are dairy and gluten-free and they come frozen, so each one is perfect for a snack at any time. Chocolate and strawberry were our favorite flavors!

Available at eatsweetnothings.com, $3.99 a cup for 12.

Gelato Boy Limited Release

What's better than gelato delivered to your front door? New gelato flavors created each month and delivered to your front door! Each month has a theme based on the season, or collaborations or whatever strikes their fancy. Think watermelon, banana split, root beer float and more.

Available at gelatoboy.com, $12.

Organic Ice Wands from DeeBee's Organics

Kids will flip over these Organic Ice Wands featuring Anna, Elsa and Olaf from Frozen 2 and the plant-based Organic SuperFruit Freezies that were released from DeeBee's just in time for the summer heat. DeeBee's Organics shelf-stable freezies are made from premium organic fruits with zero added artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives and are allergen-free of nuts, dairy, fish, wheat and soy. You can feel good serving them every afternoon this summer!

Get yours here and here.

Chloe’s Oatmilk Pops

Officially the first oat milk pop available, Chloe’s Pops come in three tasty flavors: Mint Chip, Salted Caramel and Raspberry Chip. All three flavors are dairy-free, plant-based, Non-GMO Project Verified, gluten-free and made without any artificial ingredients. Also, these oat milk pops are free of the top eight allergens.

Click here to see where they're available near you.

Talenti Coconut Chocolate Cookie

Inspired by a coconut macaron, this flavor from Talenti is not just a non-dairy alternative, but it’s got layers of goodness, including real coconuts, chocolate cookies and a non-dairy hot fudge swirl.

Available at Target, $4.69.

Chloe’s Marvel Pops

Another fun treat from Chloe’s is their Marvel Pops! Inspired by Marvel Universe, these fruit popsicles are made with just three ingredients: fruit juice, cane sugar and water! Perfect for a backyard treat, these new pops are free of the top eight allergens.

Click here to see where they're available near you.

—Gabby Cullen with Kate Loweth

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Your Must-Save List for the Best Ice Cream Shops in LA

by Carter JungAugust 25, 2021

I scream, you scream, and living in sunny SoCal, we all scream, in perpetuity, for ice cream. All that volume is not for naught either, LA has responded to our cries, offering a wide variety of shops serving up some of the finest frozen treats fit for any family.

Does your kiddo crave breakfast cereal all hours of the day? Grape-Nuts, Fruity Pebbles and Cinnamon Toast Crunch are blended into creamy concoctions at two establishments on this list. Have you seen rolled ice cream that could pass for a bouquet of flowers? The chilled dessert from Thailand is available in our city. In search of the perfect scoop of vanilla ice cream? We found it and the secret might be cane sugar. Velvety smooth Italian gelato your thing? This DTLA spot will have you and the kids saying grazie.

Van Leeuwen

Vanilla is the cheese pizza of ice creams. It’s a blank canvas that with the proper additions can be turned into art. At least, that’s what our family thought until we tried the vanilla bean at Van Leeuwen. Cajoled by a scooper to try the typically beige flavor, we were impressed by their incredibly nuanced and flavorful take on vanilla. Using choice ingredients that include cane sugar, it is the best scoop of vanilla we’ve ever tasted, as are their chocolate and strawberry options. With flavor combinations becoming wilder than a three-year old’s imagination at many boutique creameries, sometimes a familiar ice cream crafted to perfection is everything you need.

Locations: Silver Lake, Platform Culver City, Franklin Village, The Arts District, The Point in El Segundo & via a food truck on Abbott Kinney most weekends
Online: vanleeuwenicecream.com

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Scoops

Taking the kiddos to Scoops is a mini-adventure. With the exception of one consistent flavor, they change out their ice cream selection daily, creating a delightful sense of discovery with every visit. Tai Kim, the founder, chemist and Willy Wonka of all things frozen, pulls from a recipe library that is seemingly endless, churning out micro-batches of inventive flavors such as lychee-strawberry, horchata-burnt sugar, blueberry lavender tea, coconut peanut butter pretzel or chocolate-Guinness (made with the actual beer!). No two visits will ever see the same exact flavors, which includes vegan, dairy-free options made of oat milk.

Each “one scoop" at Scoops actually comes with two. Our rec is to go with their daily fixture, Brown Bread—vanilla swirled with caramel and Grape-Nuts cereal—for one scoop and exploring a new flavor for the other. Don’t be afraid to be bold, either. The creamy, not too heavy of a base, deftly mixed in with whatever wild flavors strikes Kim’s fancy that day never-ever disappoints, helping Scoops edge out the other incredible establishments on this list as our family’s top ice cream shop.

LA Locations: Highland Park, Chinatown & Torrance
Online: instagram.com/scoopsbic

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Gelateria Uli

I once spent a week in Milan for work and ate gelato every single day. On really rough days, twice a day. When I returned to LA, I experienced withdrawals and went on a hunt to find gelato comparable to what I consumed in embarrassing amounts in Italy. After many false leads, I found Gelateria Uli. Their stracciatella scratched an itch I otherwise thought would require a 13-hour flight. Better yet, if you’re at their original Spring Street Arcade location in DTLA, if you squint a bit, the atrium court with its hanging lights could almost pass for Europe. Almost. But then again, who would want to go across the pond when you can have local-inspired flavors like horchata or vegan California pistachio.

LA Locations: Mid-City & DTLA
Online: gelateriauli.com

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Bae

This Little Tokyo outpost whips up intensely flavorful soft serve ice cream in a form factor optimized for photography -- strikingly colored frozen cream artfully swirled in a cup or cone makes for the perfect prop. If you’re going for a B&W monotone mood, the charcoal pineapple and vanilla swirl on a charcoal cone is the look. If pink and baby blue are your colors, or if breakfast cereals are a thing for your small ones, the Pegasus combines their Cinnamon Toast Crunch and Fruity Pebble for a combo that pops. If you feel like flexing for our newly stacked Lakers team -- welcome home, Russell Westbrook -- the Ube and Mango combo will have you repping purple and gold in a handheld, edible form.

369 E 2nd St.
Los Angeles
Online: baebae.co

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McConnell’s Fine Ice Cream

Founded in Santa Barbara in 1949, McConnell’s has been serving honest ice cream for over 70 years. Fillers, artificial flavors, colorings and other industrial food processes have given way to fresh, simple ingredients sourced from Central Coast farmers. In 1975, McConnell’s purchased their own dairy farm in Santa Barbara that now produces milk exclusively for their ice cream. Control of their supply chain and passion for quality comes through in every scoop of ice cream they serve. Vibrant seasonings tempered with a creamy, sweet base results in choices such as chocolate covered strawberries, Eureka lemon and marionberries, or peppermint stick that the whole family will enjoy.

LA Locations: DTLA, Studio City & Pacific Palisades
Online: mcconnells.com

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Mateo’s Ice Cream and Fruit Bars

For Angelinos, no visit to the park would be complete without the ringing bells of vendors selling paletas from their hand-pushed carts. The refreshing fruit popsicles are an affordable counteragent for kids heated from running around the playground. Mateo’s has elevated the humble paleta, tapping a wide range of tropical ingredients such as mango, hibiscus and guava with traditional flavors such as strawberry, lemon and watermelon in a spectrum of colors so vivid, it would make Crayola blush. For parents who are fans of Mexican candy or spice in general, try their mango or cucumber peppered with chile. The firey kick is a nice juxtaposition to the chilled pop.

Locations: Mid-City, Pico-Union, Sawtelle & Culver City
Online: mateosicecreamla.com

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Somi Somi

Has your little one ever asked what a fish eating its own body weight in ice cream would look like? Somisomi takes a freshly baked “ah-boong,” Korean for a fish-shaped pastry (that tastes nothing like a fish), lines the inside with an insulative filling (sweet red beans, custard, taro, Nutella), and loads it with soft serve ice cream pouring out of its doughy mouth. The warm, slightly crisped cone and creamy frosted stuffing are a delicious contrast, and the cartoonish packaging is sure to please the kids (and this adult).

LA Locations: Little Tokyo, Koreatown, Santa Monica, Sawtelle, Glendale, Long Beach, Torrance, & Santa Clara

Online: somisomi.com

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Holy Roly Ice Cream

In hot and humid Thailand, for a few local baht, street vendors will pour a creamy liquid onto a chilled, thin metal pan and dice in fruits and ingredients of your choosing. As the mix starts to cool and congeal, the craftsmen spread the blend into a thin, spackle-like coating. The sheet rapidly freezes and is scraped and rolled like a rug, and neatly arranged in a cup resembling a bouquet of flowers. Holy Roly Ice Cream has brought that Thai tradition to our city, offering Western ingredients such as marshmallows, graham crackers, Oreos and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.

LA Locations: Koreatown, Melrose & Arcadia
Online: holyroly.com

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Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams

I first heard about Jeni’s on another work trip to Columbus, Ohio, ten years or so ago. The locals raved about a neighborhood ice cream parlor that turned out fantastic scoops. They were right. The smooth creams with fun ingredients were fantastic. Fast forward a few years and the frozen dessert from the Buckeye State has won over the we-scream-for-ice-cream LA, garnering fans for its signature and limited edition flavors. Now with five locations in LA, it’s easy to see what’s so splendid about Jeni’s.

LA Locations: Los Feliz, Venice, Larchmont, Playa Vista & Calabasas
Online: jenis.com

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Salt & Straw

When Salt & Straw first landed in Los Angeles, the Portland export opened to much fanfare and for good reason. They craft scrumptious ice cream. It begins with dairy from grass-fed cows free of hormones and antibiotics. Their artisans add locally sourced ingredients, including seasonal fruits and herbs to produce flavors that rotate on a monthly basis. Wild-foraged berry slab pie and goat cheese marionberry habanero are a few mouth-watering examples that are a mouthful to say. If your young ones are daring, check them out during Halloween. Crickets, mealworms and pig’s blood have been some of the components used in past spooky seasons. If you fear forever ruining ice cream for your clan, there’s always chocolate gooey brownie or mint chocolate chip from their Classic Flavors list.

LA Locations: Larchmont, Abbot Kinney, Arts District & Studio City
Online: saltandstraw.com

–Carter Jung

featured photo: via Carter Jung

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Sweet Spots: 22 Neighborhood Ice Cream Shops for Seattle Families

by Allison SutcliffeJuly 1, 2021

Between Seattle’s super hot summer and the start of National Ice Cream month, we couldn’t think of better reasons to treat yourself and the kids to an ice cream scoop (or two!) at one of our favorite Seattle ice cream or gelato shops. From new spots you gotta try to old faves that can’t be beat, here’s where to score the best frozen treats in Seattle and beyond.

The Pastry Project

Although eating ice cream is always good, doing good while eating ice cream isn't a guarantee. Enter the new collab between The Pastry Project (a sweet social enterprise that helps future bakers and pastry chefs overcome barriers to education and jobs) and Molly Moon's. Just swing by The Pastry Project Dutch door to order a soft serve in a cone or cup. For now, this brand-spanking new enterprise is focusing on classic flavors (chocolate, vanilla or a swirl) paired with homemade crumbles, dips and hot sauces. Doesn't a soft serve twist with sticky toffee sauce and rainbow peanut crunch sound like something you need in your life?

165 S. Main St.
Seattle, WA
Online: thepastryproject.co

Hours: Thurs. & Fri., 4-8 p.m.

Milk Drunk

As parents it's hard not to love this place just based on the name alone. And we're pretty sure after you've had a taste of their scrumptious soft serve you'll be "milk drunk" too, just like your sweet newborn. They serve up irresistible flavors like lime leaf and ginger pineapple that can be enjoyed as single flavors or twisted together for an unexpected treat. Flavors rotate often... guess that means you have to go a lot this summer!

2805 Beacon Ave. S.
Seattle, WA
Online: themilkdrunk.com

Hours: Tues.-Sun., noon-10 p.m.

Seattle Pops

Sure you can make your own popsicles at home, or you can just head to Wallingford to score the best pops in town. These handmade frozen treats are inspired by Mexican pelatas and they are either fruit or milk based. You can find fruity flavors like zesty lime, lilikoi and banana mango all the time, alongside creamy flavors like chocolate fudge and coconut cream. But the way to go with these pops is to soup them up with fancy drizzles, toppings and dips. Trust us on this one!

Good to know: You can also find Seattle Pops at local farmers markets and in grocery stores.

1401 N. 45th St.
Seattle, WA
Online: seattlepops.com

Hours: Weds.-Sun., 1-9 p.m.

Kryse

If light and creative ice cream flavors are what you're craving, look no further than this local small batch pop-up. Indulge in a pint of Dirty Matcha, Melon Mint or Orange Thai Basil while you can. These pints are only available until they sell out, so order yours while you can!

Good to know: These fabu pints are available as a pop-up pick-up at Musangtino's at Fair Isle Brewing in Ballard on the second and fourth Tuesdays. Or grab scoops at Communion Restaurant & Bar, Musang Seattle, Taste of the Carribean or Sugarhill.

Online: kryse.squarespace.com

Molly Moon’s

You used to have to drive to Wallingford to wait in an around-the-corner line for Seattle’s best ice cream. That was so 2009. Now, almost every pocket of the city can stake a claim to a Molly Moon’s, including Madrona, Queen Anne, Capitol Hill, University Village, Wallingford and 19th & Mercer downtown. C’mon, Ms. Molly Moon Neitzel: here's hoping for new stores to start selling scoops of salted caramel and scout mint in Beacon Hill and West Seattle.

Locations in Wallingford, Capitol Hill, Queen Anne, Madrona, U Village, Columbia City, Redmond and Bellevue.
Online: mollymoonicecream.com

Sweet Alchemy

When it comes to small-batch, made-from-scratch ice cream, it doesn't get any better than Sweet Alchemy. This delish spot hit the ice cream scene back in 2016 and owner Lois Ko has been crushing it ever since. You'll find inventive flavors like London Fog, Persian Rose and Thai Iced Tea, alongside flavors your kids know and love like Strawberry, Sweet Cream and Cookie Explosion. Get yours in a waffle bowl to make it extra special.

Good to know: In addition to its three retail shops, Sweet Alchemy has pint pick-up locations around the city.

Locations in the U District, Ballard and Capitol Hill.
Online: sweetalchemyicecreamery.com

Frankie & Jo's

If you're looking for plant-based ice cream, look no further than this vegan option. At Frankie & Jo's, families can count on intriguing ice cream and sorbet flavors like Salty Caramel Ash and Golden Milk to tempt their vegan tastebuds, served alongside seasonal flavors that rotate. Have yours scooped into a cone with Frankie & Jo's signature Moon Goo and you won't be disappointed.

Locations in U Village, Capitol Hill and Ballard.
Online: frankieandjos.com

Shug’s Soda Fountain & Ice Cream

This Pike Place Market favorite is an old-school soda fountain, complete with novelty ice cream sundaes and egg creams. The interiors are preciously pastel and modern, with a row of stools to perch and enjoy your Mighty-O Donut topped with Lopez Island vanilla and a dollop of hot fudge. Make a day of it and enjoy a walk around the market or trip to the aquarium after.

1525 1st Ave.
Seattle, WA 98101
206-602-6420
Online: shugsfountain.com

Hours: Thurs.-Sun., 1-8 p.m.

Salt & Straw

This family owned business, which has gained a cult-like following since its first opening in 2011, is known for conjuring up wildly imaginative, city-specific flavors made with in-season organic and sustainable ingredients sourced from local businesses. Produced in small batches, Salt & Straw’s ice creams combine unique flavors you can’t (and won't!) find anywhere else.

Their menu has two parts: “classics” which are permanent menu fixtures that are so beloved they remain year-round and monthly flavors that rotate. Tempt your tastebuds with classics that include Pear & Blue Cheese, Honey Lavender and Sea Salt with Caramel Ribbons. Psst... they've got two classic vegan flavors too, if plant-based is your jam. The rotating flavors always delight and usually tie in with a theme (this month it's Rad Readers, as in books).

Locations in Ballard, Capitol Hill and Totem Lake, but they also ship nationwide.
Online: saltandstraw.com

Top It Yogurt Shoppe

Located in historic Snohomish, Top It Yogurt Shoppe gives the old school ice shop a modern twist with a dozen different flavors offered each day. Flavors change weekly, but you’ll usually find the old standbys of Cake Batter, County Vanilla and Pomegranate Raspberry on the daily menu. You’ll also find a huge selection of toppings to pile on as well, including fresh fruit, nuts, syrups and candy pieces. The prices here are pretty sweet as well.

801 1st St., Ste. 203
Snohomish WA 98290
Online: topityogurtshoppe.com

Rachel's Ginger Beer

So while this may not be your first place in mind for ice cream, think again. Rachel’s offers a mean ginger beer float. Ginger beer has a more aggressive flavor than root beer, but ice cream is the perfect way to temper it for a more kid-friendly palate. Choose your ginger beer flavor—original is awesome, but the seasonal varieties like blueberry, white peach and blood orange are both gorgeously colored and extremely flavorful—and add ice cream in vanilla, strawberry or vegan coconut flavors. Psst.. they're doing pop-ups at the Spheres every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, from 11:30 a.m.-7 p.m.

1530 Post Alley
Seattle, WA 98101

1610 12th Ave
Seattle, WA 98122

University Village
4626 26th Ave. N.E.
Seattle, WA 98105

Online: rachelsgingerbeer.com

Cupcake Royale

The creative geniuses behind Seattle's delicious cupcakes have brought their bakeshop favorites to ice cream, so you can have your cake and your ice cream too. Enjoy flavors like Red Velvet, Salted Caramel or Triple Vanilla, made with fresh, natural, local ingredients, or try the newest flavors in the Royale Creamery’s Elevated Soda Fountain Classic series (think: Banana Split and Salted Cookie Dough ice creams and Retro Cherry Cola sorbet). Go ahead and order a double scoop. We won't tell!

Locations in Capitol Hill, Ballard, Downtown, West Seattle, Madrona.
Online: cupcakeroyale.com

Snoqualmie Ice Cream

This ice creamery is a bit of a drive for Seattle families, however it’s worth it! Snoqualmie churns sorbet, ice cream and frozen custard (our favorite is the Lemon Custard) with no artificial flavors or colors and is sweetened with non-GMO cane sugar. They also churn a line of Snoqualmie Organic flavors (try their salty caramel - it's to die for!) and 22 gluten-free flavors. In addition, their shop (Snoqualmie Ice Cream & Fountain) hosts parties, so you can take your next big bash there. It’s also a perfect place to end a trip to Flower World or even Woodinville. And you can also buy pints at local markets if Snohomish isn’t on your "to-do” list or find it at several restaurants around Seattle, including Ivar's on the waterfront.

Good to Know: Order pints from their website and have them delivered right to your doorstep. It doesn't get any sweeter than that!

21106 86th Ave. S.E.
Snohomish, WA 98296
360-668-2912
Online: snoqualmieicecream.com

Hours: Daily, noon-8 p.m.

Husky Deli

This West Seattle icon is where everyone heads for cups, cones and milkshakes. The family owned shop has been making its ice cream for over 75 years! In addition to classic flavors, Husky Deli makes an array of gourmet flavors, but it's their Husky Flake, French Orange and Dollar Mint that keeps locals coming back. Pick up a few scoops, sandwiches and drinks, head to Alki and voila! A perfect day with the kids.

4721 California Ave. S.W.
Seattle, WA 98116
206-937-2810
Online: huskydeli.com

Hours: Sun.-Thurs., 7 a.m.-7 p.m.; Fri. & Sat., 7 a.m.-9 p.m.

Full Tilt

The closest ice cream will ever get to being considered punk rock, Full Tilt serves sweet treats in colorful shops featuring pinball machines that hearken back to when we were kiddos. In addition to dairy flavors like mexican chocolate and green tea chip, vegan families can bite into scoops of crusty punkin or mint chocolate.

Locations in Ballard, Columbia City, White Center and the U District.
Online: fulltilticecream.com

Scoop Du Jour Ice Creamery

Grab some of Scoop Du Jour’s delicious ice cream in a waffle cone and walk down to the park or waterfront in Madison Park. No frills and around forever, Scoop Du Jour is an unpretentious, beloved Seattle tradition. Don’t miss out on their kid-approved burgers or grilled cheese, either.

4029 E. Madison St.
Seattle, WA 98112
206-325-9562
Online: facebook.com

Bluebird Ice Cream

Bluebird is as much a destination for kiddos as it is for adults: Little ones love bowls of ice cream infused with the likes of pink-iced animal crackers or floats made with Rachel’s ginger beer or small batch root beer, and grown-ups can fill take-home growlers of Chocolate Milk Stout at the Greenwood store from Bluebird’s nanobrewery. Plus Bluebird is now doing home delivery of your favorite pints to customers in Fremont, Ballard, Phinney Ridge, Maple Leaf, Crown Hill, Queen Anne and Wallingford on Fridays.

7415 Greenwood Ave. N.
Seattle, WA 98103
206-659-8154
Online: bluebirdicecream.square.site

Hours: Tues.-Fri., 2-9 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., noon-9 p.m.

Nutty Squirrel Gelato

The smell of fresh-made waffle cones hits you from a block down Greenwood from this adorable little café. Who could resist? The gelato here is rich and ultra-flavorful; even the "small" can be made with two flavors, so try multiple flavors like the sea salt caramel or nutty pistachio (or go fruity with the dairy-free sorbettos). There’s no need to rush, as there are tables and a felt play wall at the back perfect to keep littles entertained.

Phinney Ridge
7212 Greenwood Ave. N
Seattle, WA 98103

Magnolia
2425 33rd Ave. W.
Seattle, WA 98199

Online: nuttysquirrelgelato.com

Hours: Daily, noon-9 p.m.

Bottega Italiana

Wish you were in Italy? This is where you can get your gelato fix. Bottega Italiana’s ingredients are fresh and creative, and the menu includes vegan and non-dairy options. With 60% less fat than ice cream, you’ll be saying “grazi!” alongside the kids.

Pike Place Market
1425 1st Ave.
Seattle, WA 98101
206-343-0200
Online: bottegaitaliana.com

Fainting Goat Gelato

With two Seattle locations, this small family business serves up delicious handcrafted gelato and sorbetto in a variety of flavors. In addition to local seasonal berries, Fainting Goat also uses only organic milk and sugar, making the shop a popular family destination. Plus with flavors that rotate daily, you can expect to find a new fave (or two!) every day of the week.

1903 N. 45th St.
Seattle, WA 98103
206-327-9459

3415 Fremont Ave. N., A
Seattle, WA
206-257-5267

Online: faintinggoatseattle.com

Sirena Gelato

During the warm summer months, families line up outside to get a huge scoop of this delicious premium gelato, handcrafted one pan at a time from an old-fashioned Italian recipe. Indulge in one of their many flavors including amaretto, cappuccino, chocolate, strawberry, mango, lemon or coconut or go for a pan dolce gelato “popsicle” or one of the many frozen sandwiches heaped with the Italian treat.

Kirkland
109 Park Ln.
Kirkland, WA 98033
425-739-9339

Bellingham
960 Harris Ave.
Bellingham, WA 98225
360-733-6700

Online: sirenagelato.com

Menchie’s

A San Fernando Valley, California chain with a slew of local stores, it’s hard to say no to Menchie’s self-serve froyo since it averages about 20 to 40 calories per ounce. When your kids add gummy worms, cookie dough chunks and peanut butter sauce that good-for-you dessert might cross the line into junk food territory, but you can always stick with fresh fruit toppings...and maybe a drizzle of hot chocolate.

Many area locations
Online: menchies.com

—Allison Sutcliffe, Jeffery Totey, Kristina Moy, Chelsea Lin & Sara Billups

feature image: iStock

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The Best Halloween Treats for Kids with Allergies

by Mireille SchwartzAugust 23, 2020

When you’ve got a kid with allergies, Halloween is a unique challenge of its own. Navigating through piles of candy that your kiddo may or may not be allergic to is not the easiest task, which is why we’ve put together a list of candies and treats that skip some of the most common allergens, like tree nuts, gluten, soy and dairy. We hope it comes in handy both when buying candy and going through your little one’s haul, but remember: always check the ingredients list and manufacturing practices before letting your littles dive in!

Enjoy Life Chocolate Minis

Enjoy Life, a leading allergen-free food manufacturer, has released their latest treat—Halloween Chocolate Minis. Choose from dark chocolate, ricemilk chocolate, ricemilk crunch and a variety pack. All of the chocolate is free of the top eight allergens and is gluten-free.

Online: enjoylifefoods.com/Halloween-Chocolate-Minis

free2b Foods Sun Cups & Mint Cups

Halloween can be tough for kids with food allergies. That's where free2b comes in. Their line of sun cups and mint cups are top 12 allergen-free, and free from artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, preservatives, hydrogenated oils, palm oil and carrageenan, as well. The entire line is Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Gluten-Free, Certified Vegan, Kosher Pareve and Fair Trade Certified.

Our kid tasters particularly loved the consistency of the filling in both the sunflower and mint options. Buy them in two packs or in Halloween-themed single packs for trick-or-treaters. You can purchase them online or at a store near you.

Black Forest Organic Trick or Treat Mix

Made with real fruit juice and simple ingredients, trick-or-treaters will go wild for this tasty mix from Black Forest Organic. It’s got a nice variety of lollipops, gummies and fruit chews, and they’re all gluten-free and nut-free.

Online: blackforestusa.com/gummy-candy.html

SAFE + FAIR Cookies and Grahams

Allergy-friendly food company SAFE + FAIR has an awesome line of kid-approved treats, including Abby’s Cookies and Remy’s Grahams. The treats are nut-free (and made in a nut-free facility), non-GMO and made with whole grains, so you’ll feel good about handing them out to the little ghouls at your doorstep. SAFE + FAIR even donates 3% of proceeds to the Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research at Stanford University.

Online: safeandfair.com

Hu Chocolate

This cult-favorite brand carries a range of delish vegan and paleo chocolate bars in flavors so good, you won’t even want to give them away. Try the cashew butter and raspberry jelly, the crunchy mint or the almond butter and puffed quinoa. All of the bars are free from dairy, palm oils, emulsifiers, soy lecithin, gluten, refined sugar, cane sugar and sugar alcohols, but note that some flavors contain nuts.

Online: hukitchen.com/collections/chocolate

Surf Sweets Jelly Beans

Made from organic fruit juice and cane sugar, these sweet beans are free of over 10 allergens, including tree nuts, soy, casein, sesame and more. And, they recently released a new multi-pack—just in time for the big night!

Online: amazon.com/Surf-Sweets-Organic-Jelly

Fear Not Spook Free Chocolatey Treats

Your kid can finally dig into a "peanut" butter cup, a "snickers" bar and "milk" chocolate on Halloween! These individually wrapped treats are milk free, nut free, gluten free and wheat free. They are also vegan, processed in an allergen-free environment and taste great.

Online: nowheychocolate.com

Partake Cookies

Partake makes cookies in three flavors: a yummy (and slightly spiced) carrot oat, sweet potato millet and a wholesome sprouted grain chocolate chip. Thought up by a mom who struggled to find a tasty, allergen-free snack for her own kiddo, each box of cookies is filled with veggies, fruits, and grains, and is free of top allergens, including tree nuts, peanuts, eggs, wheat and more. Gluten-free and non-GMO Project verified, there’s nothing but goodness left in these sweet snacks.

Online: partakefoods.com

Dum Dums

Kids love Dum Dums for the more than 15 different flavors, while parents love the price! Free of the top eight allergens, and made in an allergen-free facility, these suckers are always a good bet. Be sure to look for the newest flavor—pineapple!

Online: amazon.com/dum-dum-lollipops

Welch’s Fruit Snacks

This year Welch's Fruit Snacks has a Halloweeny box and pouch with custom holiday-themed fun shapes that include a bat, a spooky witch, haunted castle, and pumpkin. These guys are completely peanut & tree nut free (and also made in an allergen-free/isolated environment) and perfect for trick or treating, lunchbox treats or parties. The fruity, beloved treats will balance out the overflowing chocolate and candy options for you and your gang.

Online: target.com/welchsfruitsnacks

Sour Patch Kids & Swedish Fish

Even though these classic treats are free of the top eight allergens and are produced and labeled in compliance with FDA Good Manufacturing Practices, kiddos with severe allergies still might want to skip 'em. But, if they get the green light from parents, we found a great combo bag that offers both Sour Patch Kids and Swedish Fish.

Online: target.com/p/sour-patch-kids-halloween-variety-pack

Vermont Nut Free Chocolates

Annually a top pick: the name says it all. Lovingly made in small batches in Vermont, mail-order customers keep coming back for these incredibly delicious chocolates, creamy fudge, and every other candy you can think of! How about jelly beans? Check! Gummy Bears, crunchy-chewy Pretzel Caramel Bark? You know it. Everything is made in a tree-nut free facility (gluten/wheat, soy, eggs and dairy products are processed here, however), and worry-free seasonal candies can be shipped anywhere in the U.S.

Online: vermontnutfree.com

Gimbal’s Cinnamon Lovers

Turn up the heat with these delectable, shiny, soft, allergy-free hearts. Zinged up with spicy real cinnamon oil and bursting with flavor, they're a throwback to the old-school cinnamon hearts from our own childhood. These little red guys are; "Hot! Hot! Hot!", and for calmer palates Gimbals' also has a complete line of other candies. Gimbal's candies are peanut-free, tree nut-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free and egg-free and also include gourmet & sour jelly beans, Sour Lovers, Cherry Lovers, and black-as-Halloween-night Licorice Scotties.

Online: gimbalscandy.com

Smarties

Another one of the candy bunch you've already heard of, but did you know Smarties are free of all Top 8 allergens? These have been dubbed "America's Favorite Candy Roll" since 1949 and Smarties Candy Company has even been featured on the Food Network's "Unwrapped" television show with a fancy-schmancy factory tour so they're about as legit as candy gets. Allergy-free, gluten-free and completely vegan. Timeless.

Online: smarties.com

Wrigley’s

So now you've met some of the new kids on the allergy-free block. Well: look no farther because here's a very familiar face! More than just Juicy Fruit or Spearmint gum, Lifesavers are delightfully allergy-free, the Gummy Life Savers and Creme Savers, too. Skittles & Starburst, oh my! Add Altoids to the allergy safe list, as well, and they're also gluten-free. So find the rainbow, taste the rainbow, and even ride the rainbow of favorite fruit flavors all while remaining allergy safe - and you can find these tasty treats absolutely everywhere.

Online: wrigley.com

PASCHA Chocolate

If dark chocolate is your thing, look no further than PASCHA Chocolate's original assertive, tasty bars. This allergen-free organic chocolate is just right for baking and is such a great addition to recipes it will take your culinary skills to a whole new level (even if the Martha Stewart gene skipped you!). How about kitchen fun on an afternoon that won’t cause any bad reactions? Mail-order chocolate chips can get whipped up into sweet batters for cookies and bars, and whole or mini-bars can be nibbled any old time without allergy-worry—so get cookin' and take a walk on the Dark Side!

Online: paschachocolate.com

—Mireille Schwartz

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