How to Order a Costco Cake and Get It Just Right

If you need a cake for a birthday, anniversary, or just because, Costco is a cheap and reliable option. The bakery section offers ready‑made cakes, but you can also ask for custom designs. Below you’ll find step‑by‑step instructions, pricing pointers, and pickup tricks so your cake turns out exactly how you want.

Placing Your Costco Cake Order

First, decide on the size. Costco sells cakes in 8‑inch, 10‑inch, and 12‑inch round options. An 8‑inch serves about 12 people, a 10‑inch around 20, and a 12‑inch 30‑plus. Choose the size based on your guest list; it’s cheaper to go a size up than to order an extra half‑cake later.

Next, pick a flavor. Classic vanilla and chocolate are always on the shelf, but you can request strawberry, carrot, or even seasonal flavors like pumpkin. Simply tell the bakery staff what you want, and they’ll note it on the order slip.

When it comes to decoration, Costco offers basic icing, fondant, and themed toppers (like “Happy Birthday”). If you want a specific picture or logo, bring a high‑resolution image and ask if they can print it on edible paper. Most locations can do simple prints for a small fee.

To place the order, visit the bakery counter in person. Phone orders are not common at Costco, so a quick trip saves time. Have your cake size, flavor, and decoration details ready. The staff will give you an order number and a ready‑for‑pickup date—usually 24‑48 hours later.

Pricing and Payment Tips

Costco keeps prices transparent. A basic 8‑inch vanilla cake starts around $15, while a 12‑inch custom‑decorated cake can be $30‑$40. Adding fondant, extra layers, or a printed image adds $5‑$10. Ask for a written quote before you pay so there are no surprises.

Pay with a Costco membership card, debit, or credit. Some locations require a small deposit when you order, especially for large custom cakes. This deposit is usually refundable if you cancel at least 24 hours before the pickup date.

Keep an eye on sales. Costco occasionally runs “Birthday Cake” promotions where certain sizes or decorations are discounted. Signing up for the Costco newsletter can alert you to these deals.

Pickup Day: Make It Easy

On the day your cake is ready, go to the bakery counter early. Bring the order number and a photo ID if the store asks. Some locations will call you, but it’s safer to arrive a bit before the listed time.

Inspect the cake before you leave. Check the size, flavor, and decorations. If something looks off, let the staff know right away—they can fix minor issues on the spot.

Transporting the cake is simple: use the cardboard base it comes on and keep it flat. If you have a long drive, place a cooler bag underneath to protect frosting from melting. For extra safety, wrap the top with a clean kitchen towel.

Finally, store the cake properly. Keep it refrigerated if it has perishable frosting (like cream cheese) and bring it to room temperature about an hour before serving. This helps the texture stay soft and the flavors stay bright.

With these tips, ordering a Costco cake becomes a no‑stress part of your celebration. You get a tasty, affordable cake, a clear price, and a smooth pickup—no hidden surprises. Happy baking (or rather, happy eating)!