The holidays are here—a time for celebration, connection, and of course, incredible food. As seasoned editors, we believe memorable moments are built around the table. This year, let’s make your gatherings both elegant and affordable. Our secret? The unparalleled value and quality of Costco. We’ve found the smartest ways to use its treasures, delivering the practical, impactful advice you rely on to host beautifully without the stress.
Costco, with its legendary bulk deals and surprising gourmet finds, becomes an indispensable resource during this busy time of year. It’s where smart shoppers can discover unique products that offer premium quality without the premium price tag, items that you simply can’t find with the same incredible value or specific characteristics anywhere else. From curated lists of specialty foods to shopper-favorite seasonal delights, our aim is to guide you through the warehouse aisles to discover those extraordinary groceries that will make your holiday spread truly shine.
So, get ready to transform your holiday shopping list! We’ve meticulously curated a selection of 14 outstanding Costco holiday groceries – the ones we personally swear by – that promise to elevate your feasts, simplify your entertaining, and bring a touch of unique flavor to your festive moments. These aren’t just recommendations; they’re solutions to common holiday challenges, offering both aesthetic appeal and functionality. We’re about to unveil the first seven must-haves that are poised to become the stars of your seasonal table, ensuring your celebrations are as stress-free as they are delicious.
1. **Kirkland Signature Isigny Ste Mere Imported French Brie**Elevating a holiday charcuterie board or a warm appetizer becomes effortless with Costco’s Kirkland Signature Isigny Ste Mere Imported French Brie. This isn’t just any cheese; it’s a taste of genuine French culinary heritage, offered at an almost unbelievable price point of $10.99 for 1.32 lbs. Presenting a cheese of this caliber signals thoughtfulness and a touch of gourmet sophistication without breaking the bank during the festive season.
What truly sets this brie apart is its origin and stellar reputation. Isigny Ste Mere is a venerated name in the world of fine dairy, celebrated for products reflecting the rich terroir of France’s Isigny region. One enthusiastic Costco member stated, “Isigny Ste Mere is some of the best. I was just in France and happened to pass by the giant cheese factory… This stuff is the real deal.” This isn’t merely a label; it’s a guarantee of quality and a creamy, buttery flavor profile.
Imagine a ripe wedge served with artisanal crackers or a spoonful of cranberry compote. For a comforting starter, bake the brie until luxuriously gooey, pairing it with crusty baguette slices. This French brie transforms simple entertaining into a refined affair. Its availability at Costco infuses your celebrations with European elegance, proving high quality and great value can go hand-in-hand for your holiday table.
2. **Snack Factory White Chocolate & Peppermint Pretzel Crisps**When the holiday season arrives, so too does the craving for treats that perfectly blend festive flavors with satisfying textures. The Snack Factory White Chocolate & Peppermint Pretzel Crisps are precisely that indulgence, a highly anticipated seasonal return to Costco shelves. At a budget-friendly $7.37, these crisps represent a delightful and convenient solution for any holiday snack spread, proving that festive cheer can be both accessible and utterly delicious.
These aren’t your average pretzels. They offer a creative and addictive twist on classic holiday flavors. Each crisp, thin pretzel is generously enrobed in a smooth, sweet white chocolate coating, then showered with bright, crunchy peppermint pieces. The result is a harmonious interplay of salty pretzel, creamy chocolate, and refreshing mint – a combination described as the “perfect salty (yet still sweet) spin on the holiday season’s classic peppermint bark.” They’re ideal for spontaneous holiday gatherings or for personal festive enjoyment.
The popularity of these pretzel crisps is undeniable. One fan’s determined quest perfectly illustrates their allure: “I visit Costco every other week across 3 locations… they have not been in stock in 3 years.” This anecdote speaks volumes about their limited availability and the sheer delight they bring when finally found. If you spot these on your next Costco run, stock up. They’re a simple, crowd-pleasing snack that adds an instant touch of holiday magic to any bowl.
3. **Annie’s Organic Cinnamon Rolls**For those bustling holiday mornings, when time is precious but the desire for a warm, comforting breakfast is paramount, Annie’s Organic Cinnamon Rolls emerge as a true hero. Universally hailed as “beyond GOATED” by enthusiastic shoppers, these cinnamon rolls are a must-have for any festive household, especially when they’re available at the fantastic price of $12.47 after a $4.50 discount. They promise a delightful start to your day, without the lengthy preparation.
What makes these particular cinnamon rolls so beloved? Beyond their organic credentials, they deliver on flavor and texture in spades. They bake up into beautifully golden, soft, and fluffy spirals, each laden with a rich, spiced cinnamon filling and crowned with a generous swirl of sweet, creamy icing. One dedicated Costco shopper simply states, “Best Cinnies in a can hands down. We buy 3-4 boxes when they go on sale,” a clear testament to their superior taste and undeniable appeal.
Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cinnamon wafting through your home on Christmas morning. These rolls offer that experience with minimal fuss, allowing you to spend more precious moments with family. They are a practical recommendation for anyone looking to simplify holiday entertaining without sacrificing deliciousness. Stocking up ensures you’re always ready to offer a crowd-pleasing, warm, and wonderfully indulgent breakfast, making holiday mornings truly special.
4. **David’s Cookies Butter Pecan Meltaways**The holidays are an open invitation to indulge in treats that evoke warmth, nostalgia, and pure melt-in-your-mouth delight. David’s Cookies Butter Pecan Meltaways, a luxurious offering from Costco at $49.99, perfectly embody this festive spirit. These aren’t just cookies; they are tiny masterpieces designed to transport you back to cherished childhood memories of home baking, offering a level of decadent satisfaction that few other treats can match.
The magic of these meltaways lies in their exquisitely tender texture and rich flavor profile. Each cookie is crafted to be incredibly delicate, dissolving on the tongue with a buttery smoothness that truly lives up to its name. The generous inclusion of crunchy pecan pieces adds a delightful textural contrast, while a light dusting of confectioners’ sugar often enhances their sweetness. As one member glowingly attested, “These are just like the ones my mom used to make. They melt in your mouth. You can’t eat just one!!” This testimonial underscores their irresistible quality and comforting, homemade appeal.
Incorporating David’s Cookies Butter Pecan Meltaways into your holiday spread is a simple yet effective way to add an element of refined indulgence. They are perfect for a sophisticated dessert platter or for enjoying as a moment of personal bliss. Their elegant presentation also makes them an exceptional gift, conveying warmth and thoughtfulness. For those seeking a classic, impeccably crafted cookie that promises pure indulgence and nostalgic charm, these meltaways are an undeniable holiday essential from Costco.
5. **Ocean Spray Craisins Whole Dried Cranberries**For any seasoned home cook or enthusiastic holiday baker, certain staples become indispensable during the festive season. Ocean Spray Craisins Whole Dried Cranberries, available in a substantial bag at Costco for $11.99, fall squarely into this category. Far more than just a dried fruit, these vibrant, ruby-red gems are a versatile culinary asset, capable of infusing a touch of tart sweetness and appealing color into an extensive array of holiday dishes, making them a true pantry workhorse.
Their appeal lies in their unique flavor profile and adaptability. Unlike the often cloying sweetness of raisins, craisins offer a bright, tangy counterpoint that elevates both sweet and savory recipes. This distinct characteristic makes them a favorite among savvy cooks. One shopper enthusiastically noted, “These dried cranberries are the best! I substitute these when my recipes call for raisins. They go very well in my oat n’ honey bars,” illustrating their superior performance and broad application.
Consider the myriad ways these craisins can enhance your holiday cooking. Imagine them studded throughout a festive cranberry-pecan stuffing, or lending their vibrant hue and chewy texture to a holiday fruit salad. They’re also exceptional in baked goods, from muffins and cookies to pies and tarts. For their sheer utility, superior taste, and ability to elevate countless holiday dishes, Ocean Spray Craisins from Costco are an indispensable item for your seasonal shopping cart.
6. **Savanna Orchards Honey Roasted Nut & Pistachios**When planning for holiday entertaining, the quality of your snack offerings can often set the tone for the entire gathering. The Savanna Orchards Honey Roasted Nut & Pistachios, available in a convenient two-pack for $38.99 at Costco, are a consistent fan-favorite that promises to elevate your snack selection from ordinary to extraordinary. These aren’t merely nuts; they are a sophisticated and highly anticipated seasonal treat that brings both indulgence and aesthetic appeal to any festive occasion.
The secret to their irresistible charm lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each nut, including premium pistachios, is expertly honey-roasted, resulting in a delicate, slightly sweet, and caramelized coating that beautifully complements their natural richness. This meticulous preparation offers a nuanced sweetness that keeps guests coming back for more. As one loyal member passionately expressed, “These are so delicious. Look forward to them every year,” a sentiment that speaks volumes about their consistent quality and seasonal allure.
These honey-roasted nuts are incredibly versatile for holiday entertaining. Serve them simply in elegant bowls as a sophisticated accompaniment to drinks, offering a protein-packed and flavorful option for guests. They also make a fantastic addition to charcuterie boards, providing a crunchy counterpoint to cheeses and cured meats. Their premium feel and appealing packaging also make them an excellent ready-to-go gift for hosts or colleagues, embodying both thoughtfulness and exquisite taste.
7. **Kirkland Signature Frenched Lamb Rack**For those truly special holiday feasts where making a lasting impression is key, the Kirkland Signature Frenched Lamb Rack emerges as the quintessential showstopper from Costco’s seasonal offerings. This exquisite cut of meat is a top recommendation from culinary judge Meredith Ochs, specifically highlighted for its ability to “truly impress holiday guests.” It’s an elegant, gourmet main course that provides a sophisticated alternative to traditional holiday roasts, ensuring your festive table is nothing short of spectacular.
The “frenched” preparation of this lamb rack is what gives it such a distinguished appearance. This classic butchery technique involves meticulously cleaning the meat and fat from the end of each rib bone, leaving them exposed and pristine. This creates an incredibly elegant and visually striking presentation – one that Ochs aptly describes as making it “a showstopper” – and simplifies the carving process. Sourced from Australia, these lamb racks, typically around eight ribs in a 2-pound pack, offer premium quality at an accessible price, approximately $15 a pound at Costco.
To truly elevate your presentation, consider Ochs’ ingenious suggestion: “tying two or three racks into a crown roast around a mound of stuffing.” This culinary feat transforms individual racks into a grand, circular display, making for an unforgettable center-of-the-table moment. Whether roasted simply with a fragrant herb crust or crafted into this magnificent crown, the Kirkland Signature Frenched Lamb Rack promises a tender, succulent, and immensely flavorful main course. It’s an exceptional Costco find that empowers home cooks to create a restaurant-quality holiday meal with confidence and flair.
8. **Godiva Goldmark Assorted Chocolate Gift Box**When the holiday season calls for a touch of luxury, whether for a cherished gift or a well-deserved personal indulgence, the Godiva Goldmark Assorted Chocolate Gift Box from Costco truly delivers. Priced at $99.99 for a pack of four, this offering represents incredible value for a brand synonymous with premium chocolate. It’s a thoughtful gesture that speaks volumes, and as one enthusiastic Costco shopper noted, it’s “A GREAT value as the chocolates are delicious and wrapped very nicely.” This makes it an ideal choice for showing appreciation or simply treating yourself.
The elegance of Godiva chocolates extends beyond their exquisite taste to their sophisticated presentation. Each box is meticulously arranged, showcasing a variety of masterfully crafted pieces that promise a delightful journey for the palate. The assortment typically includes a blend of smooth milk, rich dark, and creamy white chocolates, often featuring sumptuous caramels, decadent ganaches, and satisfyingly crunchy nuts. This ensures there’s a flavor and texture to satisfy every preference among your guests or gift recipients.
The “nicely wrapped” aspect of these gift boxes is a significant time-saver during the frantic holiday rush. They arrive ready to present, allowing you to bypass the need for additional wrapping paper and bows, and reinforcing effortless elegance. This convenience, combined with the universally recognized quality of the Godiva name, ensures your gift will be received with genuine pleasure, making it a perfect solution for colleagues, teachers, or a thoughtful hostess gift that blends luxury with practicality.
9. **Kirkland Signature Pumpkin Cheesecake**The return of Costco’s Kirkland Signature Pumpkin Cheesecake is a clear sign that the holidays have truly arrived. This magnificent dessert, priced at $24.96 for a substantial 4.5 lbs, is a genuine showstopper, perfectly balancing seasonal flavors with an impressive scale designed to cater to any large Thanksgiving gathering or festive party. It epitomizes a convenient solution for anyone looking to offer a high-quality, crowd-pleasing dessert without extensive time in the kitchen during the busy season.
What sets this cheesecake apart is its masterful construction and exquisitely rich flavor profile. It features a creamy, perfectly spiced pumpkin filling layered atop a classic, buttery graham cracker crust, all crowned with a luscious whipped pumpkin topping and delicate graham pieces. The blend of sweet and tangy notes is expertly achieved, offering that quintessential taste of autumn and winter holidays that everyone anticipates. Its generous size means it “serves a full Thanksgiving gathering with ease,” an incredibly practical choice for hosts.
Beyond its immediate appeal for holiday feasts, this pumpkin cheesecake also offers practical benefits for long-term enjoyment. Shoppers particularly appreciate that “it’s freezable too, so leftovers never go to waste.” This feature is a game-changer for managing holiday food, allowing you to preserve and enjoy slices of this seasonal delight even after the main event. Whether presenting it as the grand finale or bringing an impressive dish to a potluck, Costco’s Pumpkin Cheesecake is the ultimate seasonal indulgence.
10. **Plats Du Chef French Onion Soup**During the hectic holiday season, finding ways to “cut some corners with holiday prep” without sacrificing flavor is a godsend, and the Plats Du Chef French Onion Soup from Costco, available for $9.07, is a prime example of a convenient gourmet solution. This frozen soup offers an incredibly rich and delicious experience, providing the warmth and sophistication of a classic French dish with remarkable ease. It’s the kind of item that makes you feel like a culinary wizard, even when your kitchen is bustling with other preparations.
The allure of this soup lies in its authentic taste and luxurious texture. It’s described as “rich and delicious,” perfectly evoking the deep, savory broth, tender caramelized onions, and often a cheesy, crusty topping that defines a truly great French onion soup. A customer who sampled it enthusiastically raved, “They were giving out samples and it really is rich and delicious… Came out amazing!” This firsthand testimonial speaks volumes about its ability to deliver an impressive culinary experience from a frozen state.
One of the most appealing aspects of this soup is its versatility in preparation. While traditionally oven-baked for a golden, bubbling cheese topping, one customer creatively shared, “I prepared it in the Air Fryer. My oven is on the fritz. Came out amazing!” This adaptability makes it an even more valuable asset during holiday cooking, when oven space can be at a premium. Serving this as an elegant starter for a holiday dinner or a comforting lunch demonstrates thoughtfulness without demanding extensive culinary effort.
11. **Kirkland Signature Peppermint Bark**Nothing quite captures the festive spirit of the holidays like the cool, refreshing snap of peppermint bark, and Costco’s Kirkland Signature Peppermint Bark, priced at $17.49 for 22 oz, is a returning favorite. This iconic indulgence is a seamless blend of “sweet, cool, and crunchy,” making it an indispensable item for dessert platters, thoughtful gift bags, or simply a delightful mid-afternoon pick-me-up. Its widespread popularity ensures it flies off the shelves each year.
The premium taste and elegant presentation of Kirkland’s Peppermint Bark are what make it such a beloved staple. It features a thick, decadent layer of smooth dark chocolate, generously topped with an equally creamy white chocolate, and then showered with vibrant, crunchy crushed peppermint pieces. This multi-layered approach creates a harmonious texture and flavor profile that truly satisfies, offering a luxurious mouthfeel with every bite. The description notes, “The bark snaps cleanly and melts in your mouth—proof that simple ingredients can create something truly decadent.”
Beyond its deliciousness, the Kirkland Signature Peppermint Bark is also a brilliant “holiday hack” for those short on time. As one insightful observer quipped, you can “crack open this plastic clamshell, pour the contents into a decorative tin and pretend you made it yourself. There is no shame in this, and I appreciate Costco for being a willing accomplice to this perfectly acceptable holiday hack.” This makes it an ideal option for hosts who need a quick, impressive dessert or a ready-made gift, ensuring a touch of holiday magic with effortless ease.
The holiday season, with its joyful chaos and culinary delights, becomes simpler and more delicious with Costco’s incredible finds. These selections—from gourmet appetizers to unique sweet indulgences and thoughtful gifts—are more than just groceries; they are solutions. They empower you to host with confidence, treat with generosity, and savor every precious moment. Remember, Costco is your ultimate partner in crafting a truly memorable and stress-free holiday experience, filled with warmth, flavor, and unmistakable holiday magic.
