Costco Cake Cost Calculator
Calculate your Costco cake cost based on size and servings. Prices are CAD.
Estimated Cost:
Want a birthday cake from Costco but don’t know where to start? You’re not alone. Thousands of people order cakes from Costco every week because they’re affordable, delicious, and come in sizes that feed a crowd. But if you’ve ever walked into a Costco bakery looking for a cake and left confused, you know it’s not as simple as picking one off the shelf. The process has rules, deadlines, and hidden steps that can save you time-or cost you a party.
Costco cakes aren’t available for walk-in orders
You can’t just show up and grab a cake like you would at a regular bakery. Costco doesn’t keep pre-made cakes on display for immediate purchase. Every cake is made to order. That means you need to plan ahead. Even if you see a cake in the bakery case, it’s likely already reserved for someone who ordered it days in advance.How to place your order
There are two ways to order a cake at Costco: in person or by phone. Online ordering isn’t available anywhere in Canada as of 2025.- In person: Go to the bakery counter at your local Costco warehouse. Ask for a cake order form. Fill it out with your details: name, phone number, pickup date and time, cake size, flavor, and any message or design you want.
- By phone: Call the bakery department directly. Have your Costco membership number ready. The staff will take your order over the phone and confirm pickup details.
Don’t rely on texting or emailing the bakery. They don’t respond to those. The only reliable method is speaking directly to someone at the counter or on the phone.
What cake options are available?
Costco offers three standard cake types:- Round 10-inch cake: Feeds 12-16 people. Costs $18.99 CAD.
- Sheet cake (half sheet): Feeds 24-30 people. Costs $22.99 CAD.
- Sheet cake (full sheet): Feeds 48-60 people. Costs $36.99 CAD.
All cakes come with vanilla or chocolate frosting. You can choose between chocolate, vanilla, or marble cake layers. No custom flavors like red velvet or lemon are available. You can also add a simple message like “Happy Birthday!” in icing. No pictures, logos, or complex designs are allowed.
How far in advance do you need to order?
Most locations require at least 24 hours’ notice. But here’s the catch: during peak times-holidays, weekends, and the weeks before Christmas-many bakeries need 48 to 72 hours. If you wait until the day before your event, you risk the bakery being full. Some stores even stop taking orders after 2 p.m. the day before pickup.Pro tip: Call early in the morning on Monday if you need a cake for Saturday. That’s when most bakeries open their order slots for the weekend.
When and where do you pick it up?
You must pick up your cake at the same Costco location where you ordered it. Cakes are not transferable between warehouses. Pickup times are usually between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., but check with your local store. Don’t show up at 7 a.m. or 8 p.m.-the bakery staff won’t be there.Bring your order confirmation number or receipt. If you ordered by phone, write down the confirmation number they give you. If you don’t have it, the staff can look you up by name and phone number, but it slows things down.
What if you need a custom cake?
Costco doesn’t do custom cakes. No characters, no photos, no themed designs like superheroes, princesses, or sports logos. If you want something beyond “Happy Birthday” in icing, you’ll need to go to a local bakery. Some people order a Costco cake for the base and take it to a local shop to add decorations. That works, but it adds cost and risk-cakes can get damaged in transit.What about dietary needs?
Costco cakes are not gluten-free, vegan, or nut-free. They’re made in the same kitchen as all other cakes and baked goods. Even if you ask for a “clean” cake, cross-contamination is unavoidable. If you or someone you’re serving has a severe allergy, don’t risk it. Stick to specialty bakeries that handle allergens separately.How long does a Costco cake last?
These cakes are made without preservatives, so they’re best eaten within 2-3 days. Store them in the fridge if you’re not serving them right away. Take them out 1-2 hours before serving to let the frosting soften and the cake come to room temperature. Freezing is possible, but the texture changes slightly. If you freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight.Why do people love Costco cakes?
They’re not fancy, but they’re reliable. The frosting is sweet but not cloying. The cake layers are moist and fluffy. A half-sheet cake costs less than $25 and feeds a whole office. For birthdays, family reunions, or office parties, it’s one of the most cost-effective options in Canada. Many people order them year after year because they know exactly what they’re getting.What if your order is wrong or the cake is damaged?
Costco has a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If your cake is damaged, melted, or doesn’t match your order, bring it back to the bakery counter with your receipt. They’ll replace it immediately-no questions asked. You don’t even need to return the cake. Just explain what happened, and they’ll make you a new one.
Regional differences to watch for
While most Costco warehouses in Canada follow the same cake rules, some locations have slight variations. For example:- In Ontario, some stores offer a 6-inch round cake for $12.99, but it’s not listed on any official menu. Ask.
- In British Columbia, a few bakeries allow you to add sprinkles for free.
- In Quebec, the cakes are labeled in French, but the process is identical.
Always confirm with your local store. Don’t assume all locations are the same.
What to do if the bakery is busy
If the bakery counter is packed with people, don’t wait. Go to the customer service desk and ask them to call the bakery for you. They can often relay your order or give you the phone number for the bakery manager. Some stores even have a dedicated cake order line listed on their website or in-store sign.Another trick: Visit on a weekday afternoon-Tuesday through Thursday between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. That’s when the bakery is least busy, and staff have more time to help you.
Can you order a cake for delivery?
No. Costco does not deliver cakes. You must pick them up yourself. If you need delivery, consider ordering from a local bakery that offers it. Some services like Uber Eats or DoorDash partner with local cake shops and can deliver within an hour.Final checklist before you order
Before you head to the store or call the bakery, make sure you have:- Your Costco membership number
- Exact pickup date and time
- Choice of cake size (10-inch, half-sheet, or full-sheet)
- Flavor preference (chocolate, vanilla, or marble)
- Message for the cake (max 2 lines, 20 characters per line)
- Plan for how you’ll transport it (a flat surface in your car, not the back seat)
Get those details right, and you’ll walk out with a cake that’s perfect for your event-without the stress.
Can I order a Costco cake online?
No, Costco does not offer online cake ordering in Canada as of 2025. You must place your order in person at the bakery counter or by calling the bakery directly.
How much does a Costco cake cost?
A 10-inch round cake costs $18.99 CAD. A half-sheet cake is $22.99 CAD, and a full-sheet cake is $36.99 CAD. Prices are consistent across Canada.
Can I get a custom design on a Costco cake?
No, Costco cakes only allow simple text messages like “Happy Birthday!” in icing. No images, logos, or detailed designs are permitted. For custom cakes, use a local bakery.
Do Costco cakes contain nuts or gluten?
Yes. All Costco cakes are made in a kitchen that handles wheat, eggs, dairy, and nuts. There is no gluten-free, vegan, or nut-free option available. Cross-contamination is possible, so avoid them if you have severe allergies.
How long do I need to wait to pick up my cake?
You need at least 24 hours’ notice, but during busy times like holidays or weekends, you should order 48 to 72 hours in advance. Some stores stop taking orders after 2 p.m. the day before pickup.
Can I pick up my cake at a different Costco location?
No. Cakes must be picked up at the same warehouse where you placed the order. They are not transferable between locations.
What if I’m not happy with my cake?
Costco offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If your cake is damaged, incorrect, or melted, bring it back to the bakery counter with your receipt. They’ll replace it immediately with no questions asked.
Next steps
If you’re planning a birthday party and want a cake that’s big, tasty, and budget-friendly, Costco is one of the best options in Canada. Just remember: plan ahead, call early, and know your limits. You won’t get a custom unicorn cake, but you’ll get a cake that 20 people will happily eat-and you’ll save $50 compared to a local bakery.Next time you need a cake for a holiday, baby shower, or retirement party, skip the stress. Go to your local Costco bakery, fill out the form, and walk out with a cake that just works.
