The $5 Limited-Time Trader Joe's Appetizer I Can't Stop Eating

Growing up, a sure sign that the holidays were approaching was the neon glow of Port Wine Cheese Spread neatly tucked away in the family fridge. My mom only bought this bright orange-and-pink cheese spread on special occasions, and I recall some sort of rationing system involved to keep the four of us kids from devouring the whole tub before guests arrived.

While I haven’t had this product in years, I recently discovered a new product at Trader Joe’s that instantly reminded me of my favorite childhood holiday appetizer.

The Appetizer I'm Buying From Trader Joe's This Holiday

Trader Joe’s Totally Cheeseball Cheese Spread reminds me of a modern-day port wine cheese. It's made from a base of the grocery's iconic Unexpected Cheddar—an aged cheddar that has hints of Parmesan—complemented by the tang of Syrah Toscano cheese. It's punchy and somewhat fruity, but in a much more refined way.

This limited-time cheese spread also has some added texture and flavor, thanks to chopped almonds, chives, and parsley. It’s the type of thing that feels impossible to stop eating once you start.

At first taste, I enjoyed Totally Cheeseball Cheese Spread on a peppery water cracker, but I’m pretty sure it would taste great on a piece of cardboard (it’s that good). For the holidays, I plan to set this out with a little fig jam or hot honey.

How to Serve Trader Joe's Totally Cheeseball Cheese Spread

The Totally Cheeseball Cheese Spread is replicates the flavor of a classic holiday cheeseball without all the work; however, I like that it’s much softer and more spreadable. It would make for a great condiment for a turkey or roast beef sandwich, so consider it your holiday leftovers new BFF.

Also, the creaminess and deeply savory flavors make it a logical addition to holiday mashed potatoes and twice- baked potatoes. Or, if devils on horseback are a go-to holiday appetizer, a few spoonfuls of this spread mixed in will really take them to the next level.

Last but certainly not least, using this spread as the base of a toasty, bubbly, and cheesy crostini is the stuff dreams are made of. Top them off with a few sautéed mushrooms or thin slices of tart apple, and you have an elegant and effortless party-worthy hors d’oeuvre.

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