When autumn comes knocking, one dessert seems to stand out among the rest—Costco’s famous pumpkin pie. With its huge size, affordable price, and reputation for being the centerpiece of many Thanksgiving dinners, this pie has earned a place in the hearts (and on the plates) of millions. But is Costco pumpkin pie really as good as people say? Or does its popularity stem solely from its low cost and convenience?
In this comprehensive review, we’ll break down every aspect of Costco pumpkin pie, from its taste and texture to its ingredients and nutritional value. By the end, you’ll know whether this dessert is truly worth your holiday table.
Why Is Costco Pumpkin Pie So Popular?
Costco’s pumpkin pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a holiday tradition for many families. As soon as the air turns crisp and pumpkin spice starts making its way into coffee shops, Costco’s bakery section begins rolling out its massive 3.5-pound pumpkin pies, selling millions during the fall season.
One of the reasons for its popularity is the price-to-value ratio. At just $5.99, you’re getting a huge pie that can feed a crowd. But is the price the only reason behind its success? Not quite. Costco’s pie is also praised for its consistency in taste and quality. You can pick one up in any part of the U.S. and know that you’ll get the same deliciously creamy, spiced filling and flaky crust.
If you’re wondering how this pie compares to others in terms of affordability, you may want to check out this in-depth comparison of how much a Costco pumpkin pie costs, especially if you’re budget-conscious.
Taste: How Does Costco Pumpkin Pie Measure Up?
When it comes to taste, Costco pumpkin pie is a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t stray too far from tradition. The filling has a smooth, creamy texture, perfectly spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. The pie doesn’t overpower you with sweetness, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate the natural pumpkin flavor without a sugary aftertaste.
Some pies tend to go overboard with spices, but Costco’s version strikes the right balance. The pumpkin filling is dense yet creamy, delivering a melt-in-your-mouth experience. This gives it an edge over other store-bought pies, which may lack this homemade quality.
For those who enjoy making their own pumpkin pie but still want that classic taste, consider trying this Libby’s Pumpkin Pie Recipe. You’ll be able to compare it to Costco’s version and see how it holds up.
Texture: Creamy Filling Meets Flaky Crust
A pie’s texture can make or break the experience, and Costco’s pumpkin pie doesn’t disappoint—mostly. The filling, as mentioned, is incredibly smooth and creamy. This is thanks to the Dickinson pumpkins used in the recipe, which are specially cultivated for canned pumpkin pie filling. The pumpkins’ dense flesh is ideal for achieving that silky consistency.
The crust, however, can be a bit hit or miss. While the edges are typically flaky and buttery, the bottom crust is sometimes prone to becoming soggy or crumbly. Some customers have noted that reheating the pie before serving can help improve the texture of the crust, making it more firm and crisp.
For those who love making pies from scratch and want to avoid a soggy bottom in their homemade pies, take a look at this helpful guide on how to prevent sogginess in pumpkin pie crusts.
Nutritional Breakdown: Is Costco Pumpkin Pie Healthy?
While Costco’s pumpkin pie is a delicious holiday treat, it’s important to recognize that it’s not exactly a low-calorie option. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its nutritional content for one slice (1/12th of the pie):
- Calories: 320 per slice
- Total Fat: 13 grams
- Saturated Fat: 7 grams
- Carbohydrates: 45 grams
- Sugar: 31 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 5 grams
- Vitamin A: 91% of the daily recommended intake
- Calcium and Iron: Small amounts of both present
So, while it’s packed with calories, fat, and sugar, it also offers a healthy dose of Vitamin A due to the pumpkin filling. Given that it’s a seasonal indulgence, enjoying a slice (or two) during the holidays seems perfectly reasonable. However, if you’re watching your diet closely, you might want to save this pie for special occasions.
For those interested in the differences between various pumpkin pie recipes and their nutritional values, you can explore what’s inside Libby’s Pumpkin Pie Filling, which also uses real pumpkin puree.
How Much Does Costco Pumpkin Pie Cost?
The standout feature of Costco pumpkin pie is its price—only $5.99 for a 3.5-pound pie. Despite inflation and rising food costs, Costco has managed to keep the price of this iconic pie steady over the years. When you compare it to homemade pumpkin pies, which can easily cost $10 to $15 in ingredients alone, or other store-bought pies, which are often smaller and more expensive, Costco’s version truly shines in terms of value.
It’s also important to note that the size of this pie makes it ideal for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving dinner or bringing it to a holiday potluck, one pie can easily serve up to 16 people. That’s just pennies per slice!
Where and When Can You Buy Costco Pumpkin Pie?
Costco’s pumpkin pie is available seasonally, typically from September through November. This limited availability adds to the excitement, as many people eagerly anticipate its return each year. The pies are available in Costco’s bakery section, but it’s important to grab one early—especially as Thanksgiving approaches, when they tend to sell out quickly.
For those who can’t make it to a Costco store, there’s the option to use delivery services like Instacart. However, keep in mind that prices may be higher through these services.
If you’re looking to complement this pie with another decadent dessert, you might want to consider serving it alongside a rich Chocolate Cake Recipe for a full holiday spread.
Pros and Cons of Costco Pumpkin Pie
Pros
- Affordability: At just $5.99, this pie is one of the most cost-effective holiday desserts you can buy.
- Convenience: Pre-made and ready to serve, it saves you time in the kitchen.
- Consistent Taste: Known for its creamy filling and balanced spices, Costco’s pumpkin pie delivers a familiar and comforting flavor.
- Quality Ingredients: Made with real pumpkin puree and no artificial preservatives or flavors.
Cons
- Crust Inconsistency: The bottom crust can sometimes become soggy or fall apart when sliced.
- Seasonal Availability: Only available for a few months out of the year, making it harder to get outside of the fall season.
- Requires Membership: You’ll need a Costco membership to purchase one directly, or you’ll have to pay a premium through a delivery service.
FAQs About Costco Pumpkin Pie
Is Costco pumpkin pie any good?
- Yes! Costco pumpkin pie is widely praised for its affordable price, large size, and delicious taste. It offers a creamy, well-spiced filling with a buttery crust.
How many calories are in a slice of Costco pumpkin pie?
- A slice (1/12th of the pie) contains about 320 calories.
Can you freeze Costco pumpkin pie?
- Yes, Costco pumpkin pie freezes well for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing to preserve its flavor and texture.
What is the price of Costco pumpkin pie?
- The price ranges from $5.99 to $7.99, depending on the market and any location-specific price variations.
Final Verdict: Is Costco Pumpkin Pie Worth It?
So, is Costco pumpkin pie any good? In short—yes, absolutely. For the price, size, and taste, it’s hard to find a better option when it comes to holiday desserts. While the crust may occasionally fall short in terms of texture, the overall experience of enjoying this pie is more than worth the $5.99 price tag. Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or simply want a hassle-free dessert option for a cozy fall night in, Costco’s pumpkin pie delivers.
If you want to try making your own version to compare, don’t miss out on Clara’s take on the Libby’s Pumpkin Pie Recipe, and enjoy a homemade twist on this classic favorite.