Trader Joe’s has built a loyal following around buzzy store exclusives, whether it’s limited-edition pastel mini tote bags or the cult-favorite Everything But the Bagel seasoning.
One of its recent frozen finds, the “Uncured Ham & Swiss Pockets,” has drawn attention from shoppers looking for an easy breakfast or quick snack. The buttery croissant-style pastries are filled with uncured ham and Swiss cheese, and some fans have praised their flaky texture and grab-and-go convenience.
Still, the product has not been a universal hit.
In a recent Reddit thread, one shopper offered a more critical take, asking whether their pastry had come with an unusually small amount of filling.
“Anybody find the amount of Ham is literally one slice and a minuscule amount of cheese,” the customer wrote. “Sure, the croissant was tasty, but cannot justify with so little ham.”
The shopper added that, given the ratio, Trader Joe’s might have been better off naming the item a “Croissant, Cheese and Ham Pocket,” suggesting the pastry seemed to outweigh the promised filling.
Trader Joe’s, however, describes the frozen item as a set of “handy pockets” that make “a wonderfully hearty breakfast, at home or on the go,” while also working “quite well as a brunch option” when served with eggs and fruit.
The product is sold frozen in boxes of two individually wrapped pockets, priced at $4.99.
There are more than 600 Trader Joe’s locations across 43 states, making it one of the largest chain grocery stores
Trader Joe’s Uncured Ham and Swiss Cheese Pockets cost $4.99 at the grocery store
More social media users chimed in, dubbing the new breakfast option at Trader Joe’s ‘underwhelming,’ especially compared to other options.
‘I love ham and cheese and was so underwhelmed,’ one Reddit user confirmed. ‘It’s just so bland somehow.’
‘I think this has been my biggest letdown item so far this year,’ another agreed. ‘It could have changed people’s lives.’
Others said their biggest complaint wasn’t the amount of filling at all, but getting the cooking instructions just right.
‘I find that when I air fry them if do it long enough for the ham and cheese to be warm, the croissant is so overcooked and dry,’ another Reddit user added. ‘But when the outside is perfect the inside is cold. I can’t find a good balance.’
Some were quick to defend the Trader Joe’s item, with one sharing that it’s a ‘pretty standard amount’ of meat and cheese in each pastry.
‘I wanted to get more for my money so I tried the ones at Costco – now that’s a let down,’ one Reddit user added. ‘Literally had to throw them away. Once you get cooking the Trader Joe’s ones the right away they are amazing.’
It’s unclear how long the ham and cheese pockets will stick around the grocery store, as the grocery chain is known for switching out products based on the season.
Trader Joe’s customers shared their love for products like chicken tikka masala and chicken soup dumplings
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Trader Joe’s, known for its quirky branding and private-label grocery items, first opened in Pasadena, California, in 1967.
In recent years, the brand developed a cult following, with some social media users claiming it’s their go-to spot for snacks, ready-made frozen meals – and branded mini tote bags.
According to the company, it plans to continue opening new stores across the United States as demand continues to grow.
Trader Joe’s added 34 locations in 2024 and a further 43 in 2025, taking its nationwide footprint to more than 600 stores across 43 states.
