Pumpkins are a classic fall staple and for good reason — they’re a nutritional powerhouse. Antioxidants, like beta-carotene (which converts to vitamin A and protects eye health), give pumpkins their vibrant orange hue. While traditional fall treats like pumpkin spice lattes and cookies can be loaded with extra sugar, we’ve rounded up healthier-for-you pumpkin snacks from Trader Joe’s that won’t break the calorie bank.
Why it made the cut: This yogurt is a great option if you’re craving something sweet. It’s packed with 18 grams of filling protein and is creamy and sweet enough to sub for your favorite ice cream.
Why it made the cut: This latte has a dose of caffeine and 5 grams of protein for a great mid-morning pick-me-up. The spices add fall flair and a little sweetness, but this canned version of the fall favorite PSL contains just 100 calories and 4 grams of added sugar, much healthier when compared to 300 calories and 39 grams of sugar in 12 ounces of the Starbucks version.
Why it made the cut: This pairing takes fall flavors to the next level and is great for parties. The chips contain 140 calories per serving and taste more sweet than savory (thanks to spices like nutmeg). They’re great with the veggie-forward, low-calorie salsa (just 10 calories per serving) made with apple, pumpkin and butternut squash.
Why it made the cut: While tea isn’t necessarily a filling “snack,” this pumpkin spice rooibos is a great way to squeeze fall flavor into your bedtime routine without tacking on calories. The caffeine-free tea bags pack in pumpkin spice flavor to satisfy cravings without a sugary spiced syrup. Add a splash of almond milk and drizzle of honey for a caffeine-free mock PSL that’s as satisfying as it is healthy.
Why it made the cut: This bar is perfect when you need a filling on-the-go snack. The combination of egg whites, nuts, dates and pumpkin spices makes for a nutrient-packed snack that tastes just like pumpkin pie. Each bar packs 12 grams of protein into 210 calories, making it a great post-workout or afternoon snack to keep you full until dinnertime.
Why it made the cut: This crunchy spiced cereal satisfies sweet cravings while keeping things tame at just 110 calories per cup. It’s great for snacking right out of the box or eating with milk, which leaves you with a pumpkin spice cereal milk that’s hard to resist.
Why it made the cut: These pumpkin seeds pack 5 grams of protein into a sweet, crunchy snack. They’re nutty and satisfying, but as with all nuts and seeds, you’ll want to keep an eye on portion size. Each 1/4 cup (75g) serving clocks in at 170 calories so be sure to portion out a single serving before digging into the bag. You can also make fall-themed trail mix by combining these pumpkin seeds with Pumpkin O’s to keep you energized on a fall hike.
Why it made the cut: These cute pumpkin desserts come in single portions and are decadent enough to satisfy your sweet tooth. They clock in at 120 calories each, making them a healthier fall-themed dessert than your usual slice of pumpkin pie.
