Cannelés (LIMITED-MARCH-MAY)

Officially, a ‘treat’ is: something out of the ordinary that gives great pleasure. Every now and then, a food comes along that really fits the treat definition—and we think Trader Joe’s Cannelés are a true Treat with a capital T!

Known in France as “Cannelés de Bordeaux” in reference to their origin at Couvent de Annonciades (boy, those Bordelais nuns could bake!), our Cannelés [CAN-eh-lay] are crafted for us by a highly-regarded bakery in the Bay Area. They’ve swapped copper molds lined with beeswax for silicone molds that are made exclusively for them. This modern method is more efficient and cost-effective, yet yields the same delicious result as the French method: elegant-looking, striated cylinders that are chewy and caramelized on the outside, yet simultaneously soft and custardy in the middle. We did opt to pull back on the traditional rum-forward flavor, delivering what we believe is a better balance with the vanilla notes. You’re going to love it!

As you may imagine, from-scratch Cannelés are among the most challenging French pastries to re-create at home. The good news is, Trader Joe’s Cannelés couldn’t be much easier to prepare. Simply remove the packaging and place your pastries on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, then let them cool for a minute or two before enjoying with coffee or tea. You’ll find Trader Joe’s Cannelés French Style Pastries in our freezers for a limited time, March through May. Treat yourself this spring!