This Quirky Trader Joe’s Candle Smells Like Cornbread—and Shoppers Are Divided

Published on November 6, 2025

Trader Joe’s has done it again, turning an everyday pantry staple into a scented must-have. The grocery chain’s newest novelty item, the Trader Joe's Can of Corn Scented Candle, is already making waves online for its playful design and surprisingly inviting scent.

Corn Has Never Been Cozier

At first glance, the candle looks like a can straight off the shelf, complete with the label from Trader Joe’s classic Whole Kernel Corn, a longtime store favorite since 1992. But instead of kernels, the tin is filled with a soy wax blend scented like sweet, freshly baked cornbread. According to Trader Joe’s, the warm, subtly sweet aroma is meant to “fill the air with a hospitable atmosphere” that’s perfect for holiday hosting or gifting to your favorite Trader Joe’s superfan.

The candle is compact yet generously sized at nine ounces, making it easy to display on a shelf, kitchen counter, or holiday mantel, and its playful packaging makes it a fun addition to any living space.

What Shoppers Are Saying

Redditors on r/traderjoes have shared a mix of excitement, curiosity, and skepticism about the new candle. Some fans were immediately charmed by the scent, with one user writing, “I absolutely love the smell of this candle. Going to pick up more tomorrow,” while another added, “Honestly, I love the candle and I love the way it smells!” Others were more skeptical or confused, asking, “Why would anyone want a candle that smells like corn?”

Most agreed, however, that the fragrance leans more toward sweet, comforting vanilla than toward actual corn. One reviewer described the scent as “not overly corny… mostly vanilla, with hints of milk cream, salted cheese foam, nutmeg, and a touch of sweet corn.”

Several shoppers also shared tips for getting the best burn, suggesting wrapping foil around the edge of the tin or using a candle warmer to prevent tunneling and help the scent last longer.

The Perfect Gift (Especially for Midwesterners)

Despite the corntroversy, many shippers have embraced the candle as a novelty item. Some admitted buying multiple candles for fun or to give as a playful gift, enjoying the packaging as much as the scent itself. Even those who don’t plan to burn the candle appreciate it as a quirky display piece, perfect for a kitchen counter or holiday shelf. Whether it’s for a unique holiday gift or a shameless addition to your own collection, this candle adds a touch of fun to any space.