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Despite how much love is in the February air, it can be hard to find the right words to say “You rock my world,” especially during the Candy Conversation Heart Shortage of 2019.
That’s where Trader Joe’s comes in. For around the same price as a box of those chalky heart candies, you can gift your boo, friend, co-worker, teacher or kiddo a yummy and memorable gift, from chocolates to gummies and cookies. Here are the five to buy before they sell out.
For the Love of Chocolate Cake
Staying in? Get all lovey-dovey with this perfect-for-two cake, made with two layers of moist dark chocolate cake, chocolate mousse filling and chocolate ganache icing. It’s intense, so wash it down with some cold milk or hot coffee as you admire the hand-drawn, swirly white heart decor. Details: $3.99.
Gummy Xs and Os
Our family couldn’t stop eating these soft and chewy gummy candies in red, pink and white. They’re mildly fruity, colored with fruit and vegetable juices, and not overly sweet. Fill up little plastic baggies to go with your kiddo’s Valentine’s exchange or nibble on them at your desk. Hugs and kisses. Details: $2.99 for a 14-ounce bag.
Dark Chocolate Mini Heart Cookies
The best and most addictive of the Valentine’s-themed goodies are these thick, crumbly dark chocolate shortbread cookies. Too small to have just one; too big to finish the whole bag (though we did during one intense Uno marathon), these cookies are covered in bittersweet dark chocolate and crunchy pink and white nonpareils. Details: $2.99 for a 10-ounce box.
Cocoa Truffles
These side-leaning, Pisa-like truffles aren’t the prettiest, but their indulgent texture and melt-in-your-mouth (and on, er, your fingers) quality make them perfect for sharing over a roaring fire and a stinky cheese plate. The quantity and size is unbeatable, too. Details: $2.99 for 8.8-ounce box.
Belgian Chocolate Hearts
Friends and co-workers will love this small rectangular box of imported chocolates. Each heart-shaped piece has a unique outer swirl of white, milk and dark chocolate with a truffle-like center. Buy a bunch and keep them on hand for gifts. Details: $1.49 for seven chocolates.
