Costco is known for its many hot food options, but they also make cakes. The in-house bakery takes custom cake orders. This is perfect for birthday parties, graduation parties, baby showers, and much more. However, the large confusing nature of Costco can make ordering custom things intimidating. How do you order a cake at Costco? Will it be expensive? How far in advance should you order it?
You can order a custom cake from Costco via their kiosk near the bakery. This should be done at least 24 to 48 hours in advance. Costco recommends 24 hours as they state “1-day advanced notice is appreciated” on their Costco Sheet Cake Order Form.
For instructions on how to fill out their multi-page order form, as well as what options you have, I will explain in detail below.
Processing Time for a Costco Cake
Costco cakes can be made with a variety of options determined by the location. However, there are some consistent things you will need to do. The first is that all Costco bakeries require you to order the cake 24 hours in advance or more. This highly depends on how busy the bakery is.
Most locations only accept in-person orders, although some may decide to accept a fax order. If you are interested in ordering by fax, calling the bakery is the best course of action.
How to Order a Cake from Costco?
To order a cake from Costco, you will need to speak with a bakery employee and fill out a “Sheet Cake Order Form”. This order form is exhaustive, so it helps if you have an idea of what you want. Some things to decide before ordering include how many people you want to feed, what type of theme you want, and when you want to pick it up.
Ordering a Cake from Costco Step-by-Step:
1. First, arrive at Costco and locate the bakery at the location. If you are unsure where to go, the employee at the door is typically happy to direct you.
2. Once you are at the bakery, locate the cake ordering kiosk. This is usually white with a sign that says “Order Cakes Here” on it. Here is where you will fill out the order form and you can look at the cake design selections.
3. Next start filling out the order form. Most forms ask for your phone number at the top.
4. Start by choosing your cake size. Costco offers a round cake with serves sixteen people or a sheet cake that serves forty-eight people.
5. The next section is where you will pick your flavor. Most locations offer white vanilla cake with mousse filling or a chocolate version of the cake. Some locations offer additional options or may have limited-time flavors.
6. The next section will discuss how you want your cake to be decorated. There will be several standard options such as flowers, balloons, flags, or candles. There will also be an option for a holiday or event design, which will be up to the creativity of the baker. Some locations may have pictures of limited-time designs posted on the kiosk.
7. The next section will be any writing you want on the cake. You will write the phrase you want and indicate the color. This is optional. Write clearly so the bakery team can successfully read and write your words.
9. Finally, they will have you fill out your member information and pickup time. This information should match your Costco membership card. Ensuring the pickup date and time are accurate is also important, so be sure to double-check your calendar!
10. When the form is filled out, place it in the box for finished forms or directly hand it to the bakery team. If you have trouble locating where to submit your order form ask an employee where to submit it so your order can be submitted correctly.
11. Finally, when you arrive to pick up the cake, give the bakery employee the name on the order form. They should have your cake for you in no time.
Tips for a Stress-free Costco Cake Ordering Experience
- Decide how you are going to transport the cake in advance. If you are getting a large sheet cake, you may want to make sure the size will fit in your car.
- Plan if you will need to refrigerate the cake. Because the sheet cakes are large, I suggest picking those up right before the party if you have a small fridge.
- If you are getting a smaller cake and/or will be driving longer than a few minutes from the store to your home, I would suggest taking a second person. The second person can hold onto the cake while you drive, and make sure it does not become damaged during the trip.
Ordering Costco Cake FAQs
Do I need a Costco membership to order a cake from Costco?
Yes, not only do they usually check memberships when you enter the store, but you will also need to give the bakery your member information to pick up the cake.
Does every Costco make cakes to order?
Yes, every Costco has a bakery that takes custom cake orders. However, not every bakery has identical options. Depending on the staff, additional flavors and designs may be available.
Will Costco make gluten-free cakes?
If you are looking to avoid gluten in your cake, you will be happy to know that many Costco bakeries offer gluten-free premade cakes. If you want a custom cake, then it is best to let them know further in advance, although most bakeries can accommodate you.
Is cake from Costco allergy safe?
Cakes from Costco are not allergy safe by default, but many locations can accommodate allergies with notice. Make sure to call ahead, let an employee know when you order, write it on the order form, and then check again when you pick it up.
Can cakes from Costco be vegan?
Cakes from Costco are not vegan. They contain milk, butter, and eggs. Additionally, the filling is cream cheese based. However, Costco sells other premade desserts which are vegan.
Can you order a Costco cake for delivery?
No, Costco does not deliver cakes to your door. You can only pickup Costco cakes in person at the bakery section of the store. Costco does offer ready-made cakes so you do not need to customize and wait for an order.
Read Related: How to Order Pizza from Costco: A Step-by-Step Guide
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how to order a cake from Costco, you can enjoy the tasty deals that their bakery is known for. If you fill out the entire order form clearly and submit it more than two days in advance, there is little risk that you will not be pleased with the outcome. Whatever you are celebrating with this cake, congratulations.
