Autumn brings with it the thrill of transformation, not just in nature but in our tastebuds too.
The sights of vibrant leaves, shorter days, and the return of Mallomars on grocery store shelves fill me with nostalgia.
These treats, cherished by many on the East Coast, escape the usual pumpkin spice trend that floods the season’s offerings.
Much like a cherished family tradition, my loved ones and I joyfully share pictures of our first glimpses of Mallomars each autumn.
Last week, I spotted them back in my local grocery store, igniting the excitement of the season.
These cookies may just become a new favorite for your family, too, so let’s dive into why you should stock up on a few boxes (or more).
What Are Mallomars?
For those unfamiliar with Mallomars—don’t worry, it’s never too late to discover these treasures.
Originating in New Jersey, Mallomars have been delighting taste buds for over a century.
Picture a round cookie with a graham cracker base, crowned by fluffy marshmallow and enveloped in a crisp dark chocolate shell—pure bliss.
The flavor mix echoes the comforting taste of s’mores, but it’s the blend of textures that sets this cookie apart.
With every bite, the chocolate breaks beautifully, giving way to light marshmallow and the buttery crunch of graham cracker.
Once you have one, it’s hard to stop at just that.
As described by a writer in a 2005 New York Times piece, indulging in Mallomars invokes memories akin to Proust’s madeleines.
The nostalgic first bite whisks me back to my childhood, holding a special place in my heart, much like Girl Scout cookies.
These cookies are only available for certain months, which adds to their charm.
Why Are Mallomars Seasonal?
When Mallomars were first introduced in 1913, refrigeration technology was basically nonexistent, and the chocolate coating required cooler temperatures to maintain its form.
This led to the decision to produce and sell Mallomars only during colder months, usually from October to March.
Despite advances in technology, Nabisco chose to preserve the cookie’s seasonality as a nod to its history.
Maintaining this tradition creates a buzz around the product, making Mallomars “the cookie everyone likes to secure before they disappear,” as noted in NPR’s coverage.
There’s something special about waiting for these cookies to hit the shelves again.
Where Can You Buy Mallomars?
Nowadays, you can find Mallomars on shelves from late September to early October, with availability extending until late March or early April.
However, depending on your location, these cookies may be elusive.
The packaging states that over 70 percent of Mallomars are purchased in the New York metropolitan area, highlighting their roots.
In fact, approximately 95 percent are sold in the Northeast, making them a new discovery for those outside this region.
If you’re among the uninitiated, you are in for a treat.
Many retailers, including Amazon, Walmart, and Target, now offer online ordering for these cookies, so you can explore this delightful seasonal offering from anywhere in the country.
I’ve already persuaded several Allrecipes staff to join the Mallomars fan club, and soon, you will be, too.
