Costco tends to get all the attention for their year-round bulk essentials, but don’t sleep on Costco's bakery section — especially during the holidays.
Their oversized treats (read: 4- pound, 12-inch-wide pies) are perfect for big family gatherings — from Hanukkah to Christmas to New Year's — and there’s no shortage of festive options to choose from.
I recently taste-tested my way through Costco's holiday bakery items — by way of hosting some friends and family — and decided to rank and review each item. I'm a recipe developer and avid baker, but I'm not above scooping up store-bought baked goods, especially if they deliver on taste and value.
Before we get into the ranking, a few last things: I have noticed that every Costco location offers a slightly different assortment, so know that your local selection may not look the same as mine. (I was hoping for Nanaimo bars,pumpkin cheesecake, and apple strudel, but alas.)
Also, I only tasted items located in the bakery, but should you want some Italian panettone or a bag of Holiday Mingle Mix (Costco’s response to TJ’s Jingle Jangle, perhaps?), take a look in the surrounding aisles.
Last but not least, according to a bakery employee I spoke with, the seasonal items will be stocked right up until the stores close for Christmas — or until supplies last. So, without further ado, here’s my honest review, from “not impressed” to “I’m obsessed.”