The packaging is almost identical to the brand-name version, but something is different. Dupes are near duplicates of the real deal — minus the high cost.

From sweet treats to frozen foods, Aldi has the season’s hottest dupes at bargain prices. These popular Aldi items are more affordable and taste better than pricier name-brand buys and are also a great way to stretch your Aldi budget

Editor’s note: Prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by location. 

Aldi Secrets: 7 genius hacks shoppers must know

1. Sundae Shoppe Sundae ConesSundae Shoppe Sundae Cones

Price: $6.35

If you’re a fan of Drumstick cones, check out Aldi’s Sundae Shoppe dupe. You’ll get eight chocolate-dipped, nut-covered vanilla cones in this $6.35 pack — and you’ll save over $2 compared to the Drumsticks at Walmart. 

Shopping for cheaper auto insurance? Enter your zip code here to get started.

2. Specially Selected MacaronsSpecially Selected Macarons

Price: $5.05

These dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and white chocolate mocha macarons are an affordable alternative to Trader Joe’s $5.99 variety pack.

Even though the flavors are different, Aldi’s version of the lux French dessert is just as decadent.

3. Sundae Shoppe Mochi Ice CreamSundae Shoppe Mochi Ice Cream

Price: $4.95

The soft, chewy, sweet rice dough-covered ice cream balls are a popular summer treat. Walmart sells this delicious dessert for $4.97, while Aldi’s dupe has a lower price of $4.95.

Find out: 14 moves seniors could benefit from but often forget about.

4. Earth Grown Veggie BurgersEarth Grown Veggie Burgers

Price: $3.65

Trade all-beef burgers for these fiber and protein-rich veggie patties. The barbecue-ready frozen vegan burgers are made with an 11-veggie combo.

Compare this Earth Grown bargain buy to Morning Star Farms Garden Veggie Burgers. At $4.58, the name-brand version is more than $1 more per pack.

5. Friendly Farms Almond MilkFriendly Farms Almond Milk

Price: $2.75

Almond milk is more than just a trendy beverage. It’s an alternative for anyone who has a dairy allergy or can’t tolerate lactose.

Drink a chilled cup with your breakfast, or add the nut milk to your morning coffee. Blue Diamond Vanilla Almond Breeze sells for $3.39 at Target.

6. Cheese Club Macaroni and CheeseCheese Club Macaroni and Cheese

Price: $0.65

Make lunch in minutes with this generic version of Kraft mac and cheese. The real deal costs $1.29 at Target, compared to Aldi’s $0.65 price.

Both options have almost identical rich, cheesy tastes. If you don’t look at the box, you might not notice the difference between the two.

Save Money: Things to cut when living on retirement (many people ignore #11)

7. Beaumont Coffee Instant Classic RoastBeaumont Coffee Instant Classic Roast

Price: $5.95

A home-brewed coffee can save you some serious cash compared to Starbucks or another barista blend. But the savings don’t end there.

Nescafe’s Taster’s Choice House Blend costs almost $10, but this Beaumont Coffee Classic Roast is a fraction of the price of name-brand products.

8. Benton’s Chewy Chocolate Chip CookiesBenton's Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Price: $2.75

Chips Ahoy! Fans will enjoy this Benton’s sweet treat. Instead of paying $3.89 at Target for the chewy cookie, swap out the brand-name product for Aldi’s $2.75 generic.

9. Benton’s Fig BarsBenton's Fig Bars

Price: $2.75

The Fig Newton is a classic fruit-filled cookie that adults and children adore.

Whether you enjoy this sweet snack or your kiddos look forward to a fig bar with their lunch, you can save over $1 by choosing Benton’s over the original.

Break the Cycle: 8 moves to escape the paycheck to paycheck grind

10. Benton’s Breakfast BiscuitsBenton's Breakfast Biscuits

Price: $3.59

Breakfast on the go (or on the road) doesn’t have to break the bank. CVS sells BelVita cranberry orange breakfast biscuits for $6.29.

At almost $3 less, the Benton’s four-pack from Aldi is a major deal.

11. Savoritz Woven Whole Wheat CrackersSavoritz Woven Whole Wheat Crackers

Price: $2.75

Triscuits are a summer snacking staple. You can pair the crunchy crackers with cheese, veggies, or dip.

Aldi’s Savoritiz dupe is a nine-ounce box for $2.75. The brand-name product is $1.13 more for 0.5 ounces less.

12. Clancy’s Stackerz Original Potato ChipsClancy's Stackerz Original Potato Chips

Price: $1.89

Pringles are pricey. Before spending $2.00 on a tube of the original flavor, check out Aldi’s offer. Clancy’s “Stackerz” are $0.11 less for the same size pack.

Dave Ramsey Urges Americans to Become Debt-Free: Try these 7 clever ways to crush your debt

13. Burman’s Hot SauceBurman's Hot Sauce

Price: $1.89

Marinade wings, spice up summer picnic sides, or baste burgers with this Frank’s Red Hot copycat.

This Aldi dupe makes it $1.55 less than the name-brand original, helping you save money on groceries

14. Baker’s Treat Swiss RollsBaker's Treat Swiss Rolls

Price: $2.55

Hostess Ho-Hos sell for $5.74 per 10-count box at Walmart. The Baker’s Treat box of 12 individual cakes is an affordable alternative for less than $3.

Both of the classic treats have a creamy frosting filling, rich chocolate cake, and a velvety chocolate coating.

Bottom line

Whether you’re planning a party or stocking up on dessert-ready sweets, these lower-priced versions of the real deal are bargain buys that won’t disappoint.

While Aldi doesn’t accept coupons or have a customer loyalty discount program, you can use one of the best cash back credit cards to stack your savings.

More from FinanceBuzz: