Costco Cakes: How Many People a Half‑Sheet Can Feed
If you’ve ever stared at a massive Costco cake and wondered, “Will this feed everyone?”, you’re not alone. Costco’s sheet cakes are a go‑to for birthdays, graduations, and office parties because they’re big, cheap, and easy to order. The most common size, the half‑sheet, measures about 12 × 18 inches and usually weighs around 5 pounds. In plain terms, that size can comfortably serve 30‑40 people when you cut standard 2‑inch slices.
Want to stretch it a bit further? Cut smaller 1½‑inch pieces and you can serve up to 50 guests, though the frosting might look a bit thin on the edges. The key is a consistent slice size—use a ruler or a cake slicer to keep each piece even. Evenly sized pieces not only look nicer, they make it easier to estimate how many you’ll need.
Understanding Costco Sheet Cake Sizes
Costco offers three basic sheet cake options: full‑sheet (about 9 × 13 inches), half‑sheet (12 × 18 inches), and quarter‑sheet (6 × 9 inches). The full‑sheet is actually larger in surface area than the half‑sheet, but many people pick the half‑sheet because it’s the sweet spot between size and price. A quarter‑sheet is perfect for small gatherings of 8‑10 people and costs far less.
All sizes come with a choice of vanilla, chocolate, or red‑velvet cake, plus buttercream frosting or a simple glaze. Adding extra frosting or a fondant layer won’t change the serving count, but it can make each bite feel richer. If you’re watching sugar, ask for light frosting—Costco will gladly accommodate.
Tips to Stretch Your Cake Further
1. Layer it up. Slice the cake horizontally into two thin layers and add a light filling like whipped cream or jam. You’ll double the height and get more slices without extra cost.
2. Pair with other desserts. Serve a few cupcakes or brownies alongside the cake. Guests will fill up on the side treats, letting you stretch the cake to serve more people.
3. Use a simple decoration. Keep the design minimal. A plain frosting with a few sprinkles saves money and means you can order a slightly larger cake for the same price.
4. Plan the portion. If your crowd includes kids, they’ll take smaller pieces. Estimate about 1½‑inch slices for kids and 2‑inch slices for adults.
5. Store leftovers right. Wrap any remaining cake tightly in plastic and refrigerate. A properly stored Costco cake stays fresh for up to three days, giving you extra dessert for the next day.
Bottom line: a Costco half‑sheet cake is a reliable, budget‑friendly option that can feed 30‑40 guests with standard slices. By cutting a bit smaller, adding a layer, or pairing with other treats, you can comfortably stretch it to 50 or more. Next time you’re planning a party, remember these simple tricks and you’ll never run out of cake again.
