Trader Joe's loyal shoppers have cast their votes, and the results are in for the highly anticipated 2026 Customer Choice Awards. The cult-favourite grocery chain has unveiled its champions across eleven distinct categories, with a new overall winner emerging from the frozen aisle.
Steamed Pork & Ginger Soup Dumplings Claim Overall Victory
In a significant shift from last year's rankings, the Steamed Pork & Ginger Soup Dumplings have ascended to the number one position overall. This frozen favourite, which secured second place in 2025, has now dethroned former champions to become the most-loved product of the year.
Priced at an accessible $3.49, these dumplings are inspired by the traditional xiao long bao that originated in China's Jiangsu province. Fans consistently praise the savory pork filling, the distinctive gingery kick, and the rich broth encapsulated within tender wrappers. In this year's fiercely competitive rankings, they outperformed other beloved items including the seasonal Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese and the ever-popular Butter Chicken with Basmati Rice.
Category Champions Revealed
The awards spotlight the products that customers genuinely purchase on repeat, from everyday freezer staples to limited-time seasonal hits. Here is a breakdown of the category winners for 2026.
Favorite New Product: Protein Pancakes
Reflecting a growing consumer focus on health and convenience, the Protein Pancakes were voted the best new arrival. These microwave-ready pancakes deliver an impressive 20 grams of protein per pack, powered by cottage cheese and egg whites, and cook in just fifteen seconds. Priced at $3.79, they beat runners-up like Sour Strawberry Candy Belts and Garlic Butter Irish Potato Chips.
Favorite Beverage: Spiced Cider
A true Hall-of-Fame contender, the seasonal Spiced Cider has now won its category more than five times. This fall tradition, costing $3.99, is celebrated for its warm blend of cinnamon, allspice, and cloves, and its no-sugar-added recipe. Made from American-grown apples, it remains a cherished autumn and winter warmer.
Favorite Cheese: Goat Cheese
Trader Joe's chèvre lineup has reclaimed the crown, with shoppers once again naming Goat Cheese the most reliable choice in the cheese case. It topped other favourites such as Syrah Soaked Toscano Cheese Spread and Saint André Triple Crème Brie.
Favorite Produce: Teeny Tiny Avocados
The Teeny Tiny Avocados continue to dominate the produce category, praised for reducing waste and minimising browning leftovers. While avocado prices surge elsewhere, Trader Joe's offers a pack of six for $3.99.
Favorite Appetizer: Creamy Spinach & Artichoke Dip
A repeat winner, the rich Creamy Spinach & Artichoke Dip remains a party staple. For $3.79, this blend of artichokes, spinach, Swiss and Parmesan cheeses with herbs and spices consistently pleases crowds.
Favorite Breakfast & Brunch: Hashbrowns
The classic shredded potato patties, or Hashbrowns, stayed unbeatable in the breakfast category. This year-round staple, priced at just $2.99, outperformed contenders like Chocolate Croissants and Dutch Griddle Cakes.
Favorite Lunch & Dinner: Butter Chicken with Basmati Rice
The freezer-to-table classic, Butter Chicken with Basmati Rice, held onto its spot as the go-to meal for busy evenings. Customers frequently cite it as a household favourite, perfect for a quick dinner or work lunch, especially when paired with garlic naan.
Favorite Snack: Garlic Butter Irish Potato Chips
Last year's hot new product has officially graduated to snack royalty. The Garlic Butter Irish Potato Chips, made in Ireland with Irish potatoes and flavoured with salted butter and garlic, won fans over with their buttery, garlicky crunch for $2.99.
Favorite Sweet Treat: Sublime Ice Cream Sandwiches
The reigning dessert champion returned to the top. Sublime Ice Cream Sandwiches, a decades-long fixture at Trader Joe's priced at $4.99, feature chocolate chip cookies sandwiching creamy vanilla ice cream and chocolate chips, earning rave reviews from shoppers.
Favorite Bath, Body & Home: Brazil Nut Body Butter
Claiming the top non-food honour, the seasonal Brazil Nut Body Butter is famed for offering luxury at a bargain price. Trader Joe's notes it is one-fifth the price of similar products, with equally impressive ingredients. It is expected to return to shelves this summer.
While some award-winning products are seasonal and not available year-round, Trader Joe's emphasises that every store transforms into a 'trophy case' for these most-loved items whenever they are in stock. The 2026 Customer Choice Awards truly reflect the vibrant preferences and loyal patronage of the Trader Joe's shopping community.
