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15 Last-Minute Trader Joe’s Gifts That’ll Make Everyone Happy This Holiday Season

updated Nov 22, 2021
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Credit: Diana Liang

I can’t be the only one who loves the rush of waiting until the last minute to buy holiday presents, but it can be stressful trying to find something gift-worthy when the clock is ticking. Not to mention, there are always those gift-giving events — from a White Elephant exchange that limits you to $10, to a Secret Snowflake that has you stumped as to what to get the receiver — that can make shopping for presents even harder. Whether you’re in a rush to find something meaningful or looking to totally avoid the mall, Trader Joe’s has some spectacular gifts for when you need something in a pinch. Here’s a list of options that will make everyone feel merry and bright.

1 / 15
Trader Joe's
$4.49

These peppermint chunk chocolate cookies are the perfect treat for any holiday occasion. Wrap the cookie mix up in a bow as a hostess gift, or better yet, bake them for everyone to enjoy. The serving size is 24, so there will be plenty to share.

2 / 15
Trader Joe's
$9.99

There's a spice for everyone in this 5-pack set — from those who like sweet (Cocoa Cinnamon Sugar) to spicy (Chile Lime) and salty (Everything But the Bagel Sesame). Pick a spice and get cooking with the loved one who you gift this to.

3 / 15
Trader Joe's
$1.00

Chocolate advent calendars take me back to childhood. If you’re a parent, give the kids an early holiday gift that keeps on giving all December long. Or, if you're buying it for someone as a small gift, choose your favorite design for $0.99 and give your loved one a month's worth of chocolates.

4 / 15
Trader Joe's
$7.99

What's better than giving a seasonally scented candle for the holidays? When you gift three of them. This trio includes Cranberry Pine, Fresh Currant, and Nutmeg, and each of the seasonal scents brings something different to the table.

5 / 15
Trader Joe's
$4.99

My mom appreciates a beautiful yet functional gift that can be used for holiday dinners, and this handcrafted trivet is just that. Crafted in Nepal and made of New Zealand sheep’s wool, this vibrant yet practical piece is a great addition to anyone's kitchen. And once the trivet is done being placed underneath the mashed potatoes, it can be hung on the wall for additional decor.

6 / 15
Trader Joe's
$9.99

When you don't know what the person you're buying for likes, the key is to get a present with snack versatility. Trader Joe's Jingle Jangle tin of candy treats has everything from dark chocolate-covered caramel popcorn, to mini chocolate peanut butter cups, and chocolate-drenched Joe-Joe's cookies, among other sweets.

7 / 15
Trader Joe's
$4.49

My brother’s girlfriend is a salted caramel fiend, so when I saw this on the shelves of TJ's, I made a mental note to pick some up for her for Christmas. To make this beverage gift next-level, package it in a mason jar with some jumbo marshmallows. It's a quick and easy idea that anyone can enjoy, plus it gives your recipient the means to cuddle up indoors during the wintry season.

8 / 15
Trader Joe's
$7.99

Nothing says "happy holidays" like a bottle of creamy, spiked egg nog that needs no additional preparation. The 750ml bottle is blended with brandy, rum, and a touch of cinnamon, and Trader Joe's Fearless Flyer suggests mixing it with ice cream to make the merriest milkshake.

9 / 15
Trader Joe's
$2.99

Scents of maple and bold espresso are like a gift in and of itself. A box of this Maple Espresso Black Tea paired with a mug is a sweet pick-me-up for the tea drinker in your life. Additionally, with 20 bags to brew, you can make delicious hot or iced lattes throughout the fall and winter seasons.

10 / 15
Trader Joe's
$19.99

If you have anyone in your life who loves a good beauty product, this 12 Days of Beauty gift set will make them happy for nearly two weeks straight (unless they open it all at once — no judgment). From a peel-off charcoal face mask to a toasted marshmallow body butter, you'll be giving the full-body treatment to whoever receives this bundle.

11 / 15
Trader Joe's
$12.99

This serving and cutting board is ideal for a dual-purpose decorator — not to mention it's easy to wrap. If you're gifting the board at a holiday event, bring some cheeses, nuts, and meats to adorn it with for everyone to enjoy.

12 / 15
Trader Joe's
$5.99

Humans shouldn’t be the only ones allowed to enjoy a surprise-filled advent calendar, and TJ's agrees — they brought back the dog and cat advent calendars for 2021. The dog advent calendar is filled with sweet potato and salmon treats while the cat version has 24 salmon and seaweed treats. The $5.99 calendars will give the furry friend in your life a reminder of how much they’re adored.

13 / 15
Trader Joe's
$7.99

'Tis the season for dry skin, so having a solid moisturizing lotion (or three) is essential. Trader Joe's is carrying a 3-pack of shea butter hand creams in coconut, avocado, and marula scents. The packaging is gift-giving ready so you don't have to wrap a thing, but opening it up gives you triple the present inventory.

14 / 15
Trader Joe's
$2.69

It's always nice to have a sweet treat to dip into your hot cocoa while watching your favorite holiday movie. But to have one that perfectly rests on your mug, eliminating the need for an extra plate or paper towel to set it on? The dream. TJ's Cookie Mug Hangers are designed to do that while providing a sugar fix.

15 / 15
Trader Joe's
$3.49

Trader Joe's is known for its impressive plants and flowers selection, and this holiday season they are offering up small poinsettias in glittered tins. Not only are they affordable and a seasonal floral staple, but their 2-inch pots allow you to squeeze them into any corner of the house. Pick from gold, red, or green — they all sparkle and shine the same!

Additional reporting by Nicoletta Richardson