Is Trader Joe’s cheesy take on the swicy trend worth buying?
The hot honey trend isn’t showing signs of slowing, if you ask Trader Joe’s. The supermarket chain, known for rolling out limited edition cheeses, recently placed Hot Honey Goat Milk Cheese on its refrigerated shelves. This offering is a bold new release that lovers of sweet heat will appreciate, as well as turophiles across the country.
Here’s everything you need to know about the latest addition to the Trader Joe’s cheese aisle.
How much does it cost?
This cheese is a bargain at $2.99 for a standard 4-ounce pouch.
Is it a collaboration with Mike’s Hot Honey?
Nope! This cheese utilizes honey and hot pepper to create its signature flavor. As per the Trader Joe’s website, “Our supplier brings together pasteurized Goat Milk Cheese, Honey, red pepper flakes, and habanero pepper powder to create a combination that definitely hits that Hot-sweet spot.”
What does it taste like?
Right out of the fridge, my first thought was that this cheese would make for a great lazy late-night dessert—when cold, it resembles ice cream. The creamy goat cheese melded well with the sweet honey. (On another note, sugar isn’t listed as an ingredient; in fact, the first three ingredients are goat milk, honey, and salt. That means this cheese comes in at 4 grams of sugar total per serving.)
After bringing it to room temperature, what struck me was the heat that creeped up the back of the tongue after swallowing—likely an effect of the habanero pepper powder.
Overall, the primary notes were honey and fresh milk, followed by the hot pepper. I’d say it’s definitely too spicy for people who dislike a lot of spice, but a good entry point for those who want to expand their palates.
What is the texture?
This cheese has an excellent texture typical of goat cheese. Open the plastic sleeve, grab a fork, and crumble atop a salad, or spread across a pita cracker as Trader Joe’s suggests.
How should I eat this cheese?
This cheese works well with simple accompaniments and a wide variety of dishes. Add it to a side of roasted squash—another Trader Joe’s suggestion—or slather it across a piece of sourdough. Personally, I’d incorporate it into one of my favorite breakfasts: mashed avocado with lemon juice and red pepper flakes plus a fried egg and a drizzle of hot honey.
How long is this cheese available?
Snag this cheese while you can—it’s only available through March.
Should I buy it?
At $2.99 a pop, this cheese is a great way to spice up your life during the last dregs of winter. You can’t go wrong by giving it a try.
Alana Pedalino
Alana Pedalino serves as Managing Editor of culture. Her work has been featured in Bon Appétit, Chicken Soup for the Soul, and more. She loves to write, cook, and kayak. Find her bylines at alanapedalino.com.
