When the air turns crisp and the leaves start to change color, it’s a sign that fall has officially arrived. And with the arrival of the season, Trader Joe’s stores are replenished with an array of autumnal treats, ranging from sweet to savory, including an assortment of snacks, frozen dishes, baked items, and more. The sight of pumpkins and chrysanthemums stacked outside, alongside shelves lined with pumpkin and maple-scented delights, is sure to ignite the joy of the season.
But for those who have been making the rounds at Trader Joe’s during the fall festival each year, they know that not all offerings are created equal. Among the bounty, there’s one particular seasonal item I’ve been purchasing every year, and it has nothing to do with pumpkin. That item is the Sweet Cinnamon Filled Korean Pancakes, a delightful addition to my autumnal weekend breakfasts, at a wallet-friendly price of under $5.
These pancakes, inspired by the beloved Korean street food hotteok, are light and fluffy, stuffed with a comforting blend of cinnamon and sugar. Priced at $4.50 for a pack of four, they can be found in the frozen section and are typically on shelves from early fall through winter. While they might not be the most authentic version, they are undeniably mouthwatering.
The cinnamon filling is reminiscent of the gooey center of a cinnamon roll, and they are a breeze to heat up for an instant breakfast delight. They are sure to be a hit with kids! Both shoppers and critics alike have praised these limited edition pancakes, and I always make sure to grab at least one pack during my annual Trader Joe’s fall shopping trip.
During the fall, I store these in the freezer and savor them for a cozy Saturday morning at home. I’ve experimented with a couple of preparation methods. The packaging suggests warming them on a skillet, which I find works well to give them a slight crispiness on the outside while keeping the cinnamon filling warm and gooey inside, perfect for a classic pancake stack.
However, I’ve also tried using an air-fryer, which I prefer for the extra crunch it imparts on the exterior without compromising the soft, gooey interior. This method is also great for easily opening them to reveal the inside and for dipping by hand. The texture is just divine.
You can add any toppings you desire, but I typically enjoy them simply with butter and syrup. Some Trader Joe’s enthusiasts suggest pairing them with autumnal spreads like pumpkin or apple butter. I’m certain that these combinations would be equally enjoyable and would make for a delightful and festive gathering for a grand autumnal breakfast.
