The Costco Tip For Getting Kirkland Baked Goods In Bulk
There are the big box stores everyone knows, and then there are the giants — namely, Costco, which millions of shoppers rely on to stock their pantry with bulk-sized goods at super-low prices, and to score the many sweet perks that come with the Costco card. There's no shortage of reasons to love Costco — from its strong sample game and viral food court offerings to low-cost gas and its unique treasure hunt approach to aisle layouts, it all helps set the store apart from the other retailers. And then there are the Costco shopping hacks — and no shortage of them. Even the most dedicated Costco shopper probably hasn't yet uncovered all the tricks, tips, and perks the retailer has up its sleeve — all adding to the allure and layering on more to love about a Costco shopping experience. One such tip is knowing how to get Costco baked goods in bulk, which yes, is absolutely a thing if you know where to find them.
The Costco bakery is a standout as is, brimming with all the freshly baked breads, cookies, and cakes to satisfy any sweet tooth. But if you know where to look — primarily at Costco business centers and select wholesale stores — you can snag baked goods for even cheaper. You can get the best price by buying Costco's baked goods frozen and baking them when you're ready, at your own home. This hack can save you in a big way — sometimes resulting in savings as deep as half off, compared to what you'd pay for ready-to-eat treats.
Costco business centers are your best bet for frozen treats
Exceptional customer service and convenience are at the forefront of Costco's ethos, hence numerous perks designed to make life easier like same-day grocery delivery and pre-made meals ready to cook. The perks extend to the bakery section, where kids get free cookies, you can order baked goods ahead of time (so no stressing about the birthday cake you want being sold out) and yes, you can score bulk frozen baked goods.
This enticing option is often most frequently offered at Costco business centers, which differ in a couple of key ways from the regular, wholesale stores you know and love. In contrast to Costco's primary stores which cater to households, Costco has around two dozen business center stores, which might look pretty similar on the outside, but primarily serve businesses — think hotels, restaurants, offices, or those shopping for big events like weddings or retreats and in need of super-bulk items and cleaning supplies.
Business center locations are scattered around 13 states and primarily found in bustling metropolitan areas. The good news is, your regular Costco membership card affords you the privilege of access to these business centers — you don't need to be shopping for a business to take advantage. So if you have one nearby, you may be able to score bulk frozen packs of chocolate chip cookie dough and buttery croissants for far cheaper than you'd typically pay for the baked versions.
Keep an eye out for frozen bakery items in Canadian stores
While this option sounds too good to be true, it's not — you can absolutely walk out with a total steal of a price, enough frozen cookie dough to last for months, plus the flexibility to keep goodies stashed in the freezer, baking only the quantity you need exactly when you need it. Craving just one cookie after dinner? Love the idea of always having a stash of frozen croissants just ready to be popped in the oven when you have guests over? Portion control and big savings? Yes please.
While this offer is concentrated at business centers over regular wholesale Costco locations, the best tactic is just to ask at the bakery counter of your local store next time you're stocking up on must-have pantry staples – just don't be surprised if they refer to you the nearest business center, since you'll be hard pressed to find this perk at most regular stores in the U.S. For Canadian Costco shoppers, however, you might just be in luck — as this sweet offering tends to be more widespread across the border than it is in the States. When in doubt, simply ask at your nearest store! If they don't offer this hack, they can hopefully point you in the right direction of a store that does — and frankly, having super affordable delicious cookies and pastries always at your fingertips is a luxury worth hunting down.