If you’ve been to Trader Joe’s lately, you’ve probably seen Trader Joe’s Bamba—the puffed peanut and corn snack that’s become a cult favorite.
But this version has a twist: it’s filled with creamy hazelnut crème.
It’s peanut butter meets Nutella in a crunchy, airy bite.
It’s nostalgic, snacky, and surprisingly satisfying.
But did you know this snack has roots in Israel and a long-standing fanbase across generations?
Let’s take a closer look at what makes Trader Joe’s Bamba so special—from its global backstory to why it’s worth picking up on your next TJ’s run.
What Is Trader Joe’s Bamba?
Trader Joe’s Bamba is a puffed snack made from peanuts and cornmeal, with a soft hazelnut crème filling in the center.
It’s light and crunchy on the outside and creamy and nutty on the inside.
It comes in a bright red bag, usually found near the chips or snack aisle.
This version is slightly different from the original Bamba, which doesn’t have the filling. But both have that same roasted peanut flavor that melts in your mouth.
The Original Bamba: A Beloved Israeli Snack
Bamba first launched in Israel in 1964 and quickly became the country’s top-selling snack.
Made by Osem, the Israeli company behind the original, it was developed to be both tasty and filling—something light, salty, and peanutty for kids and adults.
Here’s something interesting:
Peanut allergies are much less common in Israel than in the U.S., and researchers have taken notice. A 2015 study in The New England Journal of Medicine found that early exposure to peanut-based foods like Bamba reduced peanut allergy risk in high-risk infants by over 80%. As a result, some pediatricians now recommend offering Bamba (under guidance) as a first peanut food.
In Israel, Bamba is everywhere—from school lunches to hiking trips to vending machines at train stations.
Are There Other Bamba Products?
Yes! Bamba isn’t just one snack—it’s a whole line. Osem has created multiple versions over the years. Here are some you’ll find in Israel:
- Classic Bamba – plain peanut-filled puff, no crème
- Bamba Nougat – similar to the Trader Joe’s version, but with Israeli-style nougat inside
- Strawberry Bamba – pink, sweet, and fruity
- Mini Bamba – smaller bite-sized puffs
- Halva-Filled Bamba – with sesame-based filling
- Bamba Chocolate Drizzle – coated with a light chocolate layer
- Bamba Mix – includes Bamba and Bissli, another popular Israeli snack
Osem is the only major brand making these snacks in Israel.
“Bamba” is a trademark, and it’s so iconic there that copycats don’t really compete.
Is Trader Joe’s Bamba Made by the Same Company?
Yes. Trader Joe’s Bamba is made by Osem in Israel, the same company that created the original.
The bag even says “Product of Israel.” So you’re getting the real deal—just with a sweet twist made just for U.S. shoppers.
The hazelnut crème version is exclusive to Trader Joe’s.
It’s not something you’ll find on shelves in Tel Aviv or Jerusalem!
Where Else Is Bamba Popular?
Besides Israel and Trader Joe’s in the U.S., Bamba has been gaining fans worldwide:
- United States: Trader Joe’s made Bamba mainstream. Some U.S. Costco and Whole Foods locations carry the original version.
- United Kingdom: Found in kosher markets and international aisles.
- France, Germany & Canada: Popular among Jewish communities and expats.
- Asia: Imported Bamba is starting to trend in snack-loving corners of Japan and China.
Bamba’s reputation has also grown in parenting communities thanks to its link with peanut allergy prevention.
What Does Trader Joe’s Bamba Taste Like?
Let’s talk flavor and texture.
Trader Joe’s Bamba hits a nice balance:
- Light and crispy shell
- Rich, nutty peanut flavor
- Smooth hazelnut crème center
- Slightly sweet but not overpowering
It tastes like peanut butter cereal meets Ferrero Rocher—but less sugary.
The hazelnut filling is creamy and smooth, not sticky.
It’s the kind of snack you end up eating by the handful without realizing it.
Bonus: it’s vegan-friendly and has no artificial flavors or preservatives.
Is Trader Joe’s Bamba Healthy?
It’s not a health food, but it’s not junk either.
One serving (about 1 oz or 28g) has:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.5g |
| Sodium | 75mg |
| Carbs | 13g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
It’s a decent snack if you want something satisfying without going the overly-processed route.
Where to Buy Trader Joe’s Bamba (and Price)
Trader Joe’s Bamba is available exclusively at Trader Joe’s stores in the U.S.
You’ll usually find it in the chip and snack aisle or near global foods.
- Price: $1.99 per bag (as of 2025)
- Availability: In-store only—Trader Joe’s doesn’t sell online
It tends to sell out fast in some locations, so if you spot it, you’ll want to grab an extra bag.
How to Use Trader Joe’s Bamba in Fun Ways
Don’t want to eat it straight out of the bag? Try this:
How to turn Trader Joe’s Bamba into a dessert topping:
- Freeze a handful of Bamba for 20 minutes.
- Crush it gently with your hands or a rolling pin.
- Sprinkle over vegan ice cream or chocolate mousse.
- Add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate.
Now you’ve got a crunchy, nutty, no-bake dessert.
Pros and Cons of Trader Joe’s Bamba
Pros:
- Unique peanut + hazelnut combo
- Made by the original Bamba brand
- Vegan and no artificial ingredients
- Light, crispy texture
- Affordable
Cons:
- Low in protein and fiber
- Filling makes it a little messier
- Addictive (seriously)
- Not available online
Highlighted Fun Facts About Trader Joe’s Bamba
- First sold in 1964, Bamba is still Israel’s top-selling snack.
- “Bamba” is a registered trademark of Osem and a household name in Israel.
- The LEAP Study (2015) found early peanut exposure via Bamba reduced allergy risk by over 80%.
- The hazelnut crème version is made specifically for Trader Joe’s—not available in Israel.
Final Thoughts on Trader Joe’s Bamba
If you’re curious about global snacks or just want something new to munch on, Trader Joe’s Bamba is worth trying.
The combo of roasted peanut and creamy hazelnut is fun, filling, and feels like a little treat in every bite.
Be careful! This is one of those snacks you might reach for again just because it’s easy joy in a bag.
Simple bliss, right?
If you are also interested in delicious dinner options from Trader Joe’s, here’s a review on Trader Joe’s Korean Beetles Bulgogi. You don’t want to miss this!
FAQ: Trader Joe’s Bamba
Save and Share this delicious treat from Trader Joe’s
And now, something totally unrelated but too fun not to share…
Totally Random But Totally Want Them
Nope, I don’t own these. But every week I stumble across a few random Amazon finds that are too fun, quirky, or useful-looking not to share. I might not need them… but I kinda want them. And maybe you will too?
Mini Mustache Vinyl Sticker
I don’t own this little guy, but the idea of giving your outlets, laptops, or to-go cups a tiny ‘stache?
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