Does Costco Still Make Cakes? Everything You Need to Know

For loyal Costco shoppers, the bakery has long been a hidden gem—a place where indulgence meets affordability. Among the wide array of fresh-baked goods, Costco’s cakes have enjoyed a cult-like following. From the lavish custom-order sheet cakes to the ever-popular Kirkland Signature birthday cake, these desserts have become staples for celebrations across North America. However, with changing food trends, supply chain fluctuations, and shifting consumer habits, many wonder: Does Costco still make cakes? The answer is a resounding yes—but with important caveats that every cake-lover should know. This comprehensive guide dives into the state of Costco bakery offerings, the types of cakes still available, pricing, customization options, and tips for ordering the perfect treat.

Yes, Costco Still Makes Cakes—But With Some Key Limitations

Despite rumors and store-to-store inconsistencies, Costco continues to offer cakes in most of its warehouse locations across the United States, Canada, the UK, and other international markets. However, the availability, variety, and ordering process have evolved significantly over recent years.

The perception that “Costco no longer makes cakes” often stems from changes in their baking model. While some members remember a time when they could walk in and order a fully customized cake for next-day pickup, today’s process is more streamlined—and sometimes more restricted. Understanding these changes is key to enjoying what Costco still offers.

The Evolution of Costco’s Cake Services

To fully appreciate the current cake offerings, it’s important to look at how they’ve evolved.

From Full Customization to Pre-Designed Favorites

Years ago, Costco bakeries prided themselves on the ability to create completely custom cakes—color schemes, messages, characters, and themes could all be tailored for birthdays, weddings, or other events. However, in 2020, amid the pandemic and increased operational strain, Costco began phasing out full custom cake orders in many locations. This shift allowed bakeries to focus on faster turnover and consistent quality while managing staffing limitations.

Though custom designs are largely gone, Costco hasn’t stopped baking cakes altogether. Instead, the company pivoted to offering pre-designed specialty cakes and seasonal favorites, such as holiday-themed sheet cakes and decorated cupcakes. Members can still personalize their orders to an extent—mainly through message writing and choosing frosting colors—but full artistic designs are no longer standard.

What Happened to the Custom-Cake Program?

The discontinuation of fully custom cakes was not a corporate-wide overnight decision, but a gradual change influenced by:

• Supply chain disruptions affecting ingredient availability
• Labor shortages in the bakery departments
• Increased demand for ready-to-serve bakery items over made-to-order goods
• A focus on streamlining operations for efficiency

As a result, many stores replaced the custom-order system with a rotating selection of pre-designed cakes available in the refrigerated bakery case. This allows for faster service and greater consistency, even if it limits creative options.

What Cakes Are Available at Costco Today?

While the golden era of completely custom cakes may be over, Costco still offers an impressive and delicious array of cakes for members. The exact availability varies by region and individual warehouse, but the following categories are generally accessible.

1. Kirkland Signature Sheet Cakes

The most iconic of Costco’s offerings, the Kirkland Signature sheet cake, remains in production. Typically available in two main varieties:

These large cakes are ideal for feeding crowds and are frequently used at office parties, family gatherings, or school events. The flavor profile—moist cake with a rich buttercream—is widely praised, and the value per serving is hard to beat.

Pro Tip: Half sheet cakes usually serve 24–36 people, while full sheets can serve up to 72, depending on slice size.

2. Themed and Seasonal Cakes

Costco excels at holiday-specific desserts. Depending on the time of year, you may find:

• Halloween-themed spooky cakes with festive decorations
• Valentine’s Day heart-shaped red velvet cakes
• Christmas cakes featuring snowmen, trees, or Santa motifs
• Patriotic cakes for Independence Day or Canada Day

These are often created in-house at local Costco bakeries using templates and are available for a limited time. Because of their popularity, they tend to sell out quickly—especially before major holidays. It’s wise to call ahead or visit early to secure one.

3. Cupcake and Mini Dessert Trays

For smaller gatherings or mixed dessert platters, Costco offers trays of cupcakes—usually in quantities of 24 or 48. These typically include:

• Classic vanilla cupcakes with swirl frosting
• Chocolate cupcakes with sprinkles or chocolate ganache
• Seasonal varieties such as red velvet or carrot cake

While not full cakes, these provide a convenient alternative for those who need portion-controlled desserts or want variety for their event.

4. Specialty Dessert Cakes (Limited Availability)

Some Costco locations carry specialty cakes such as:

• Red Velvet Cakes: Rich and slightly tangy, with cream cheese frosting
• Lemon Cakes: Light and zesty, perfect for spring events
• Carrot Cake: Spiced cake with walnuts and thick cream cheese frosting

Availability of specialty flavors depends heavily on local bakery demand and seasonal rotation. Not every warehouse stocks these, so it’s best to call your local store for current offerings.

How to Order a Cake at Costco in 2024

Even with the shift to pre-designed cakes, you can still “order” a cake at Costco—though the process isn’t always what it used to be. Here’s how to get the cake you want:

Step 1: Visit the Bakery or Call Ahead

Begin by heading to the in-store bakery or calling the Costco warehouse directly. Not all locations offer cake ordering services, and those that do may have limited slots.

The staff can inform you about:

• Current in-stock cake designs
• Lead times required for large orders
• Whether message personalization is available
• Options for allergy-sensitive requests (e.g., nut-free)

Step 2: Choose Your Cake and Design

You’ll typically be able to pick from:

• Pre-designed sheet cakes with seasonal themes
• Plain sheet cakes with a custom written message
• Limited-edition holiday cakes

While full custom artwork is not an option, most stores allow you to add a personalized message (usually up to 40–50 characters) on the cake. Examples include:

• “Happy 5th Birthday, Emma!”
• “Congratulations on Your Graduation”
• “Love You, Mom – Happy Mother’s Day”

Keep in mind: Availability of message options may vary based on staffing and store policy.

Step 3: Select Pick-Up Date and Pay in Advance

Once your order is confirmed, you’ll need to select a pick-up date and pay at the time of order. Costco does not typically take deposits—full payment is expected upfront. Most cakes require a 2–3 day notice, especially during peak seasons like summer birthdays or December holidays.

Step 4: Collect Your Cake

Cakes are stored in the refrigerated bakery case and must be picked up within the designated time window. They are sold on a first-come, first-served basis for unclaimed orders, so make sure to arrive on time.

How Far in Advance Should You Order?

Depending on the demand and time of year:

• For regular weekends: 2–3 days in advance
• For holidays (Valentine’s Day, Halloween, Christmas): At least 5–7 days in advance
• For summer (peak birthday season): Book as early as possible, ideally a week ahead

Can You Still Get a Costco Birthday Cake?

Absolutely. While the once-iconic custom birthday cakes with elaborate character designs (like popular cartoon figures) are largely no longer available, Costco still accommodates birthday celebrations. Here’s how:

• Order a chocolate or vanilla sheet cake
• Request a custom birthday message (e.g., “Happy Birthday, Alex!”)
• Ask for extra sprinkles, candles, or themed decorations if possible

Some bakeries still use fondant accents or pre-made toppers (like “Happy Birthday” plaques), though full character depictions are prohibited due to licensing and operational constraints.

Alternative Idea: Use a simple Costco sheet cake as a base and add your own decorations at home. Many members buy the cake and then top it with toys, figurines, or themed toppers they purchase separately—giving their party a personal touch at a fraction of the cost of a bakery-custom cake.

Cost Comparison: Are Costco Cakes Worth It?

One of the biggest reasons Costco cakes remain popular is their unmatched value. Let’s compare prices with local bakeries and grocery chains.

Price Breakdown: Serving Size vs. Cost

| Cake Type | Size | Avg. Price | Servings | Cost Per Serving |
|———|——|————|———-|——————|
| Costco Sheet Cake (Half) | 12″ x 18″ | $21.99 | 30 | $0.73 |
| Walmart Sheet Cake | 12″ x 18″ | $24.98 | 30 | $0.83 |
| Safeway Custom Cake | 9″ Round | $32.99 | 12 | $2.75 |
| Local Bakery Cake | 9″ Round | $50–$70 | 12 | $4.17–$5.83 |
| Starbucks Cake Pop (Single) | – | $2.95 | 1 | $2.95 |

As this table illustrates, Costco offers the lowest cost per serving by a wide margin. For large gatherings, this makes Costco the top choice for budget-conscious families and organizations.

Quality and Taste: Are Costco Cakes Good?

Taste is subjective, but across online reviews and taste tests, Costco cakes consistently rate highly for:

• Moist texture: The yellow and chocolate sheet cakes are known for staying fresh for days
• Rich frosting: The buttercream is generously applied and not overly sweet
• Consistent quality: Because recipes are standardized across warehouses, you can expect a similar experience wherever you go

While fine-dining dessert enthusiasts might prefer artisanal alternatives, most consumers find Costco’s cakes to be more than satisfactory for casual and celebratory events.

Tips for Getting the Best Cake Experience at Costco

To make the most of Costco’s current cake offerings, consider these insider tips:

1. Know Your Store’s Bakery Hours

Not all Costco bakeries are open full days. Some start baking early in the morning and stop accepting orders by early afternoon. Check with your local warehouse to avoid disappointment.

2. Ask About Hidden Options

Some bakeries keep extra cakes or limited-edition designs behind the counter. Don’t hesitate to ask, “Do you have any other cakes available today?” or “Is there a red velvet option in the back?”

3. Request Allergen-Free Versions

Though not standard, many Costco bakeries can accommodate basic allergen concerns. For example, some locations offer nut-free cakes upon request, but this must be arranged in advance and is not guaranteed.

4. Bring a Cooler for Transport

Sheet cakes are large and must be kept cold, especially on hot days. Bring an insulated cooler or place the cake in the car’s footwell to avoid melting, shifting, or spoilage during transit.

5. Combine With Other Costco Bakery Items

Make your party spread more impressive by pairing your cake with other popular Costco bakery items, such as:

• Giant chocolate chip cookies
• Danishes or croissants
• Fruit tarts or éclairs

This creates a fuller dessert table without dramatically increasing cost.

What About Online Cake Ordering?

As of 2024, Costco does not offer nationwide online cake ordering through its official website. However, some third-party services, such as Instacart, Shipt, or local delivery providers, may list Costco cakes on their apps—usually sourced from warehouse purchases.

These third-party options are not always reliable and may come at a marked-up price. For guaranteed availability and freshness, it’s still best to order or purchase directly from the store.

Note: If you see a “Costco cake delivery” service advertised online, confirm whether the cake is actually purchased from Costco and delivered by the service, or just inspired by the brand. Authentic Costco cakes can only be ordered or bought in physical warehouses.

International Availability: Do Global Costco Locations Offer Cakes?

Cakes are available at Costco locations in several countries, but the offerings vary:

• Canada: Full sheet cake and custom message services are widely available, similar to the U.S.
• United Kingdom: Limited cake selection, with a focus on celebration cakes and cupcakes.
• Australia: Some warehouses offer sheet cakes, but availability is less consistent.
• Mexico: Bakeries often offer elaborately decorated cakes, including character designs.
• South Korea and Japan: Known for creative and beautifully crafted cakes, including fruit-topped and mousse varieties.

If you’re traveling or living abroad, it’s advisable to visit local Costco warehouse pages or call ahead to confirm cake availability.

The Future of Costco Cakes

While the days of elaborate custom cake art may be behind us, Costco remains committed to its bakery operations. Executives have stated that baked goods, including cakes, are vital to in-store traffic and member satisfaction.

Rumors persist about a potential digital ordering platform for custom cakes, which could bring back certain personalization features while improving operational efficiency. Until then, the focus is likely to remain on high-volume, pre-designed desserts that deliver quality, affordability, and convenience.

Final Verdict: Does Costco Still Make Cakes?

In summary: Yes, Costco still makes cakes. While the full-service custom cake program has been scaled back, members can still enjoy a wide selection of sheet cakes, seasonal specialties, and celebration-ready desserts at unbeatable prices.

The experience may not be what it was in 2015—but with smart planning, a little patience, and a willingness to work within current limitations, you can still deliver a crowd-pleasing, delicious cake from Costco that will delight guests and keep your budget intact.

So the next time you’re planning a birthday, holiday, or anniversary, don’t rule out the warehouse giant. Head to your local Costco bakery, place your order, and enjoy the sweet rewards of smart shopping.

Does Costco still sell cakes in their stores?

Yes, Costco continues to sell cakes in most of its warehouse locations across the United States and other countries. The bakery section at Costco is well-known for offering a variety of high-quality, freshly made cakes for birthdays, weddings, and other special occasions. These include classic options such as vanilla, chocolate, and red velvet, as well as seasonal selections and specialty cakes like the popular Kirkland Signature Chocolate Fudge Cake. Availability may vary slightly by location and season, but cakes remain a staple of the in-store bakery.

Customers can typically order custom cakes in-store, either for same-day pickup or advanced orders for events. Some locations may require reservations a few days in advance, especially during peak times like holidays or weekends. Cake sizes range from small sheet cakes suitable for gatherings of 12–16 people, to larger full-sheet cakes that can serve over 100 guests. Prices remain competitive thanks to Costco’s bulk-production model, making their cakes a popular choice for value-conscious shoppers.

Can you order a custom-designed cake from Costco?

Costco offers limited customization for their cakes, focusing primarily on standard designs but allowing some personalization options. Customers can choose cake flavors, filling types (such as buttercream, chocolate, or fruit), and frosting colors. You may also request writing on the cake, such as a name or celebratory message, which is typically done in frosting. However, intricate designs, elaborate decorations, or themed cakes (like character designs or elaborate sculpting) are generally not available due to Costco’s standardized baking processes.

The custom cake order process is straightforward and handled through the in-store bakery department. While online ordering isn’t widely available through Costco’s website, members can call their local warehouse to discuss options and place an order. It’s recommended to place custom cake orders at least a few days in advance, especially for large events or peak holiday periods. Although not as flexible as a local bakery, Costco’s ability to deliver consistent quality and large serving sizes makes it a practical choice for simple yet elegant celebrations.

What types of cakes does Costco currently offer?

Costco offers a rotating selection of cakes, with core favorites available year-round and seasonal options introduced during holidays. Standard offerings include chocolate, vanilla, marble, and red velvet sheet cakes, all featuring moist layers with rich buttercream or chocolate frosting. The Kirkland Signature Chocolate Fudge Cake remains a top seller, beloved for its dense texture and premium taste. Additionally, some locations carry specialty items such as carrot cake, German chocolate cake, and even gluten-free options, depending on regional demand and bakery capacity.

Seasonal cakes are also part of Costco’s lineup, with cupcakes, novelty cakes, and themed desserts appearing around events like Halloween, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and Easter. For example, during winter holidays, you might find white chocolate raspberry cakes or peppermint-flavored treats. Limited-time offerings are often advertised in-store or through the Costco app, encouraging members to visit early while supplies last. Regardless of variety, all cakes are made in-house or at regional bakeries following consistent quality standards.

How much do Costco cakes cost and are they worth the price?

Costco cakes are known for their exceptional value, typically costing between $15 and $25 for a standard sheet cake, with larger or specialty cakes priced slightly higher. The Kirkland Signature Chocolate Fudge Cake, for instance, averages around $18.99 and serves 24–36 people, making the per-slice cost significantly lower than most grocery stores or commercial bakeries. This affordability is due to Costco’s bulk-production model, which reduces ingredient and labor costs while maintaining quality.

Considering the generous portion sizes, taste, and consistent freshness, many customers find Costco cakes to be well worth the price. Reviews frequently praise the moist texture, rich flavor, and elegant appearance of their cakes, especially given the cost. While they may lack the bespoke detail of high-end bakeries, Costco’s cakes deliver quality and quantity that make them ideal for larger gatherings. For budget-friendly yet delicious celebration desserts, few competitors offer the same balance of affordability and satisfaction.

Is it possible to order a Costco cake online?

As of now, Costco does not offer a direct online ordering system for cakes through its main website in most regions. Cake orders must be placed in person or by phone at your local warehouse’s bakery department. This hands-on approach allows bakery staff to discuss available options, provide samples, and confirm details like pickup time and custom messages. Some franchise locations, such as those operated by third-party partners, may use external platforms for ordering, but these are exceptions rather than the norm.

While the lack of online ordering can be inconvenient for some, it ensures accurate communication between customers and bakery teams. Members are advised to call ahead or visit the bakery counter early to secure their desired cake, especially during busy seasons like summer birthdays or winter holidays. Costco has hinted at expanding digital services in the future, so online cake ordering may become available as part of broader e-commerce enhancements, but for now, in-store coordination remains the primary method.

How far in advance should I order a cake from Costco?

It is recommended to order a cake from Costco at least two to three days in advance, especially if you need a specific flavor, size, or design. During holidays, weekends, or peak celebration seasons, such as June through September, demand increases significantly, and popular options may sell out quickly. Placing your order early ensures that the bakery can accommodate your request and set aside the necessary ingredients and labor for preparation.

For larger events or customizations like multi-tier cakes (which are rare but occasionally available), some locations suggest ordering up to a week ahead. While walk-in availability is possible, particularly for standard flavors, relying on last-minute purchases can be risky. Speaking directly with the bakery staff helps confirm lead times and any special requirements. Proactive planning not only secures your cake but also gives you peace of mind knowing your dessert is ready when needed.

Are Costco cakes fresh and made on-site?

Most Costco cakes are either made fresh on-site at the warehouse bakery or produced at centralized regional bakeries and delivered daily to ensure freshness. In-store bakeries typically prepare cupcakes, sheet cakes, and other daily items from scratch using high-quality ingredients. Cakes are baked, frosted, and decorated within the store, allowing for greater control over quality and presentation. This daily baking process ensures that customers receive products that are moist, flavorful, and safe to consume.

For larger or specialty cakes, such as the Kirkland Signature Chocolate Fudge Cake, production may occur off-site to maintain consistency across locations. These are shipped frozen or fresh and thawed or finished in-store before sale. Regardless of production method, all cakes adhere to strict food safety and quality standards. Costco’s supply chain ensures that even mass-produced items retain a homemade taste, making them a trusted option for fresh, large-format desserts.