Trader Joe’s Dutch Griddle Cakes Review

Trader Joe’s Dutch Griddle Cakes are a delightful departure from the standard pancake fare that most of us are used to. These European-inspired treats promise a convenient and luxurious breakfast experience, and I was eager to see if they lived up to that expectation after reading all the hype on Facebook and Reddit.

Firstly, the packaging is classic Trader Joe’s—quirky, with a touch of rustic charm with hints of Dutch elements like a windmill. Each package contains eight griddle cakes, making it suitable for a family breakfast or a week of indulgent starts for the solo diner. Upon opening, the griddle cakes are indeed a sight to behold with their considerable thickness and spongy texture that differentiates them from their American pancake cousins.

How To Prepare Trader Joe’s Dutch Griddle Cakes

The griddle cakes’ simplicity in preparation is a real selling point. The instructions offer oven, toaster, or microwave options, with the microwave being the quickest route to satisfaction. I opted for the toaster method for that hoped-for exterior crispness. I was not disappointed. Use your oven if you want to make them all at the same time, you must put them on the rack, not a baking sheet for them to get crispy. After a few minutes, they emerged warm and inviting, their springy texture intact. I think an air fryer is a waste here. Everyone has a toaster and it worked perfectly.

Texture-wise, Trader Joe’s has hit the nail on the head; these griddle cakes are the perfect amalgamation of fluffy and chewy, akin to a well-made crumpet. They’re thick enough to provide a satisfying bite yet light enough to not feel heavy or doughy. There is a subtle sweetness to the cakes that is appreciated, not overpowering, and allows for a variety of toppings without the flavors competing.

What do Trader Joe’s Dutch Griddle Cakes Taste Like?

Topping the griddle cakes can be an adventure on its own. I followed the suggestion of butter, organic maple syrup, and whipped cream. The butter melted into every pore, the syrup draped over the sides in a glossy cascade, and the whipped cream added a cloud-like finish. Each bite was a cozy, comforting mouthful of flavors that felt indulgent yet homey.

For this review, I also made my own Trader Joe’s Dutch Griddle Cake McGriddle just like McDonald’s. It was an excellent choice. I might never go back to McDonald’s again!

The versatility of these Dutch Griddle Cakes also impressed me. They can be a canvas for savory toppings—think creamy avocado or a poached egg. They can also skew dessert-like with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a scoop of ice cream. This adaptability makes them a staple for any meal.

Nutritionally, as with most breakfast confections, they are a treat. But when compared to other frozen breakfast options, these griddle cakes don’t carry the guilt of high fructose corn syrups or a paragraph of preservatives. Their ingredients are straightforward, which is always a plus in my book. But they are sweet so putting syrup on them just makes them almost too sweet.

However, nothing is perfect. A slight drawback is the price point, which is a tad higher than your average frozen breakfast option. But considering the quality and the imported factor, the cost can be justified as a once-in-a-while luxury rather than a daily staple.

Where Are The Dutch Griddle Cakes Located in Trader Joe’s?

The Trader Joe’s Dutch Griddle Cakes are located in the freezer section. They are located next to the other breakfast foods like pancakes and hash browns.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, Trader Joe’s Dutch Griddle Cakes offer a comforting, quick, and versatile option for breakfast or any meal where you crave a sweet, bread-like component. Their easy preparation, satisfying texture, and simple, quality ingredients make them a worthy addition to your freezer. For those who enjoy a leisurely brunch or need a quick breakfast that doesn’t skimp on the experience, these griddle cakes are a commendable choice.