3 Marshalls “Little Luxuries” I’m Buying This Holiday Season (All $4 or Less!)

HADLEY, MASSACHUSETTS, USA - AUGUST 6, 2021: Exterior of Marshalls on Russell Street open during COVID-19 summer. Marshalls is an American chain of off-price department stores owned by TJX Companies.
Credit: Emma'sPhotos/Shutterstock Credit: Emma'sPhotos/Shutterstock

I grew up going to Marshalls weekly (sometimes multiple times a week). Whenever I was with my grandma, which was a lot, we’d spend hours wandering the retailer looking for new dresses, toys, decorations, and my personal favorite: snacks.

Sure, the department store is known for its budget-friendly clothes and homeware, but did you know that it has an equally awesome food and drinks section? (The pasta and risotto alone are worth a visit.) If you haven’t perused the food aisle recently, then you’re sorely missing out on the influx of inexpensive treats, especially with the holidays approaching. In fact, on my latest recent trip I found some great items that I can’t wait to host with this year.

Someone holding package of Savoiardi ladyfinger cookies in Marshalls.
Credit: Ali Domrongchai Credit: Ali Domrongchai

1. Marini Savoiardi Ladyfingers, $2.99 for 7 ounces

As a baker, I’m very aware of the changing (and often rising) prices of some of my favorite groceries. Over the years, ladyfingers have increased to $5 or even $8 for a pack, which has made one of my favorite desserts — a classic tiramisu — become increasingly more expensive. I was thrilled to see these Italy-made ladyfingers during my latest trip (and for just $3!). So naturally, I bought two packs to prepare for holiday tiramisu-making.

Someone holding Alaska Smokehouse Lobster Spread in Marshalls.
Credit: Ali Domrongchai Credit: Ali Domrongchai

2. Alaska Smokehouse Lobster Spread, $2.99 for 3.25 ounces

As soon as November 1 hit, I immediately shifted into entertaining mode. I grew up in a home where all of the parties were thrown, and I’ve taken on that role in my adult life as well. As such, I’m always shopping with hosting in mind. When I spotted this lobster spread — for $3, might I add! — I knew it was going into my cart.

I was so excited about it, I threw it on a cheeseboard and invited some friends over that very night, and they all loved it. (They couldn’t believe it came from Marshalls.) Naturally, I went back the next day to snag a few more and thankfully there were plenty in stock.

Someone holding Sanders Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Caramels in Marshalls.
Credit: Ali Domrongchai Credit: Ali Domrongchai

3. Sanders Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Caramels, $3.99 for 9 ounces

One of my favorite parts of Marshalls is its wide selection of candies and snacks. I’m a huge fan of Sanders’ chocolate candies. They typically err on the pricier side, but I found them in-store for just under $4 for a pretty hefty bag. 

The dark chocolate balances out the sweetness of the caramel beautifully while the flaky sea salt just brings out (and enhances) all of the flavors. When I’m not eating these on their own, I’ll be adding them to meat and cheese boards throughout the holidays. 

What are your favorite Marshalls finds? Tell us in the comments below. 

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