How to make Trader Joe’s Jingle Jangle

119

If you’ve ever strolled through the aisles of your local Trader Joe’s during the festive season, you’ve likely been tantalized by the sights, smells, and, most notably, the distinctive tins of Jingle Jangle beckoning you with their assorted chocolate-covered goodies. There’s something undeniably magical about this mix, with its delightful combination of textures and flavors that encapsulate the joy of the holidays. But what if you’re miles away from a Trader Joe’s, or you simply want to add a personal touch to this festive favorite? Fear not, because, in this article, I will guide you step by step through creating your own Trader Joe’s Jingle Jangle at home.

How to make Trader Joe’s Jingle Jangle

Trader Joe’s Jingle Jangle is a seasonal treat combining various festive snacks into one irresistible mix. It’s usually available around the holiday season and is a fan favorite.

Ingredients

• Mini Pretzels: A couple of handfuls to be dipped in milk or dark chocolate.
• Popcorn: About 2 cups, ready to be drizzled or fully coated in caramel and then chocolate.
• Chocolate Candies: Think along the lines of M&M’s or something similar for a pop of color.
• Nuts: Take a cup of your choice (almonds, peanuts, or pecans work great), roast lightly, and cover in chocolate.
• Cookies: Small cookies or cookie pieces to be half-dipped in chocolate.
• Milk, Dark, and White Chocolate: Get bars or chunks that you can melt; you’ll need at least a cup of each type to ensure everything gets a generous coating.

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by laying out all your goodies. Have your pretzels, popcorn (already popped, ideally without too much-added butter or salt), candies, and nuts ready. If you’re using nuts, lightly roast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for enhanced flavor.
2. Melt Your Chocolate: In separate bowls, gently melt the milk, dark, and white chocolates using a double boiler or the microwave. Stir frequently, especially if using the microwave, to avoid burning. Aim for a smooth, liquid consistency.
3. Coat Your Goodies: Dip or drizzle your pretzels, popcorn, nuts, and cookies into the chocolate. You can fully coat them or go for a half-dipped look for some items, like the cookies. Use white chocolate to drizzle over items coated in dark or milk chocolate for a visually captivating contrast.
4. Let It Set: On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spread out your chocolate-coated items, giving them some space to ensure they don’t stick together. Once all items are coated and laid out, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator to allow the chocolate to harden.
5. Mix It Up: After the chocolate has set and hardened (usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour), gently mix all your coated treats together in a large bowl. This is your homemade Jingle Jangle.
6. Presentation: For that Trader Joe’s feeling, serve your Jingle Jangle in a festive tin or a holiday-themed bowl. It makes for a perfect party snack or a thoughtful homemade gift.

Tips for Perfect Jingle Jangle

• Chocolate Quality Matters: Use high-quality chocolate for melting, as it will taste better and melt more smoothly and harden nicely.
• Creativity is Key: Feel free to get creative with your ingredients. Anything that can be coated in chocolate or snackable can go into your mix.
• Temperature Control: When melting chocolate, be careful not to overheat it, as this can cause it to seize. Melting it slowly and at a low temperature is crucial.
• Storage: For short-term enjoyment, store your Jingle Jangle in an airtight container at room temperature, or in the refrigerator if you prefer it chilled and need it to last a bit longer.

Ingredients Substitutes

Creating a homemade batch of Trader Joe’s Jingle Jangle means there’s plenty of room to substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand, dietary restrictions, or personal preferences. Here’s a rundown of possible substitutes you might consider:

Pretzels:

• Gluten-free pretzels for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Chocolate or yogurt-covered pretzels for an extra layer of flavor, skipping the dipping step.

Popcorn:

• Kettle corn for a sweeter touch.
• Cheese popcorn for a savory and sweet combination, but skip the additional chocolate coating to avoid flavor clashes.

Chocolate Candies:

• For a different texture, use jelly beans, dried fruit like cranberries or raisins, or nuts like almonds and cashews.
• Vegans can find dairy-free candy-coated chocolates.

Nuts:

• Any nuts can generally be interchanged, but if nut allergies are a concern, roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds are great alternatives.
• Consider using crunchy cereal pieces or granola clusters for a nut-free version.

Cookies:

• Graham crackers or vanilla wafers can be substituted for cookies.
• Gluten-free or vegan cookies can be used to cater to specific dietary needs.

Chocolate:

• If milk or dark chocolate isn’t to your liking or dietary requirement, consider carob as an alternative.
• Dairy-free and vegan chocolate substitutes are widely available for those avoiding animal products.
• For a healthier alternative, dark chocolate with a high cacao percentage provides less sugar and a richer taste.

Final Thoughts

With this guide, you’re all set to make a scrumptiously festive treat that captures the whimsy and delight of Trader Joe’s Jingle Jangle.

More Trader Joe’s Recipes:

• Trader Joe’s Tiramisu Recipe
• Trader Joe’s Vanilla Bean Paste Recipe
• Trader Joe’s Gluten Free Stuffing Recipe
• Trader Joe’s Gingerbread Cookies Recipe
• Copycat Trader Joe’s Danish Kringle Recipe