How to Order a Cake from Costco - Step‑by‑Step Guide

Key Takeaways

• Only members can place a Costco cake order, but non‑members can still buy a cake in‑store.
• Choose from three channels: in‑store, online via the website, or the mobile app.
• Place your order at least 48hours before the event for larger cakes; 24hours works for standard sizes.
• Payment can be made with Costco credit, debit, or cash (in‑store only); online orders require a Costco.com account.
• Pick up at the bakery counter or schedule delivery where available.

What is Costco and why its bakery matters

When talking about bulk shopping, Costco is a membership‑based warehouse club that offers a wide range of products, from groceries to electronics. Its bakery section is known for large‑sized, affordable cakes that come in classic flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and red velvet. The bakery has been a staple in NorthAmerican stores since the early 1990s and now operates in many international locations, including the UK.

Preparing for your cake order

Before you start, gather these details:

1. Event date and preferred pickup/delivery window.
2. Desired cake size (6‑inch round, 9‑inch round, 12‑inch sheet, etc.).
3. Flavor and icing choices.
4. Any custom message or decoration.
5. Costco membership number (if ordering online or by phone).

Having this info ready speeds up the process and avoids last‑minute hiccups.

Ordering in‑store

Signing in at the bakery counter is the most straightforward way. Follow these steps:

1. Enter the warehouse and head to the bakery aisle.
2. Find the Costco bakery display where pre‑decorated cakes are showcased.
3. Ask the bakery associate for a custom order sheet. They’ll note size, flavor, and any personalization.
4. Confirm the total price; in‑store payments accept cash, debit, or Costco credit cards.
5. Receive a receipt with a pickup date - usually 24-48hours later.

If you’re not a member, you can still buy a pre‑made cake, but you’ll need a member to place a custom order.

Ordering online via Costco.com

Online ordering works for many U.S. and Canadian locations, and a growing number of UK stores have started offering it.

First, create a Costco.com account by entering your membership number, email, and a password. Once logged in:

1. Navigate to the "Bakery" section or search "cake" in the site bar.
2. Select "Custom Cake" and choose the size, flavor, and icing.
3. Enter your custom message in the text field.
4. Pick a pickup store from the dropdown; delivery is offered only in select zip codes.
5. Review the order summary, then click "Add to Cart" and checkout using your saved payment method.
6. You’ll receive an email confirmation with a pickup date (usually 48hours).

Remember, online orders require a minimum lead time of 48hours for large cakes and 24hours for standard sizes.

Ordering through the Costco mobile app

The app mirrors the website experience but adds push notifications for order status.

1. Download the official Costco mobile app available for iOS and Android.
2. Log in with your membership credentials.
3. Tap the "Bakery" tab, then "Custom Cake".
4. Choose size, flavor, icing, and add a personalized message.
5. Select pickup location and time slot.
6. Confirm and pay; you’ll get a push alert when the cake is ready.

This method is handy if you’re already in the store and want to place the order before you reach the bakery counter.

Customizing your cake

Costco offers a limited but popular set of options:

• Flavors: Vanilla, Chocolate, Marble, Red Velvet, and Strawberry.
• Icing: Buttercream, Cream Cheese, Chocolate Ganache.
• Shapes: Round (6‑inch, 9‑inch), Square (8‑inch), Sheet (12‑inch x 18‑inch).
• Messages: Up to 30 characters on the top surface; special characters are limited.

If you need a themed decoration (e.g., character toppers), you’ll have to bring your own edible images; Costco does not provide licensed decorations.

Payment, membership, and policies

Key points to remember:

• Only active Costco members can place custom orders online or by phone.
• In‑store orders can be placed by a member for a non‑member, but the member must be present at checkout.
• Accepted payment methods: Costco Anywhere Visa®, debit cards, and cash (in‑store only).
• Cancellations must be made at least 24hours before the scheduled pickup; otherwise you’ll be charged a 20% fee.
• All cakes are sold as‑is; they cannot be returned, but you can request a replacement if the cake is damaged.

Pickup and delivery logistics

After placing the order, follow these tips for a smooth collection:

1. Arrive at the bakery counter 5‑10minutes before your scheduled time.
2. Bring the order receipt (digital or printed) and a valid ID if you’re picking up for someone else.
3. If you opted for delivery, confirm the address is within Costco’s service radius; delivery fees range from $5‑$15.
4. Inspect the cake before leaving; minor frosting imperfections are normal.

Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

Many shoppers run into trouble because they forget these details:

• Lead time: Ordering too close to the event often results in “sold out” messages.
• Membership status: An expired membership blocks online orders.
• Message length: Exceeding 30 characters leads to truncation.
• Delivery zones: Not all locations support home delivery.
• Allergies: Costco cakes contain wheat, dairy, and eggs; there’s no gluten‑free or nut‑free option.

Double‑check each of these before finalizing your order.

Next steps - your checklist before you go

1. Verify your Costco membership is active.
2. Determine the cake size and flavor you need.
3. Choose your ordering channel (in‑store, website, or app).
4. Enter the order at least 48hours before the event.
5. Set a reminder to pick up the cake on the designated day.

Following this checklist reduces stress and guarantees the cake arrives on time.