Do Costco Sheet Cakes Need To Be In The Fridge?

Do Costco Sheet Cakes Need To Be In The Fridge?

Ah, the humble sheet cake: the centerpiece of birthdays, graduations, and all manner of festive gatherings. And when it comes to feeding a crowd without breaking the bank, Costco sheet cakes have earned their stripes as a go-to indulgence. But once you’ve navigated the bustling aisles of your local Costco and emerged victorious with your confectionery trophy in hand, an important question arises: do these sizable sweets need to be refrigerated?

The Short Answer: It Depends

Alright, I won’t leave you hanging. Generally, Costco sheet cakes do not need to be refrigerated if they are going to be eaten within a day or two. These cakes are designed to hold up well at room temperature, making them convenient for party planning. However, there are some caveats and best practices you’ll want to follow to ensure your cake remains safe to eat and delightful to the last crumb.

Consider the Filling and Frosting

The key factor in deciding whether to refrigerate your sheet cake is the type of filling and frosting it has. Costco’s standard sheet cakes, which typically feature buttercream or non-dairy whipped icing, can safely sit out at room temperature—ideally, in a cool, dry place. This is because the sugar content in these types of frostings acts as a preservative, which helps keep the cake fresh.

However, if your cake contains cream cheese frosting, custard, whipped cream, or any fresh fruit fillings, then it falls under different food safety guidelines. The FDA advises that perishable goods, which include dairy-based and egg-based products, should not be left out at room temperature for more than two hours, as this can increase the risk of foodborne illness (FDA Food Code 2017 Section 3-501.17). You can read more about these guidelines on the FDA’s website.

a white car parked in front of a costco store

The Role of Temperature and Environment

Another factor is the environment where the cake will be stored. Room temperature can vary widely depending on the season and location. The USDA notes that the “danger zone” for perishable foods is between 40°F and 140°F, a range in which bacteria can multiply rapidly. You can find more information about the temperature danger zone on the USDA’s Food Safety page.

If you’re hosting an outdoor event in the summer or in a warm climate, your sheet cake may need to be kept chilled until it’s ready to be served. In such conditions, a cake with any type of frosting could start to melt or spoil if left out for too long.

How to Refrigerate Your Sheet Cake

If you decide to play it safe and refrigerate your sheet cake, there are some best practices you should follow to maintain its quality:

  1. Place the cake in a cake box or an airtight container. This will protect it from absorbing any odors from the fridge and prevent it from drying out.
  2. Keep the cake away from strong-smelling foods. Foods such as onions or leftover takeout can impart their aromas onto your cake, which might not be the extra flavor you’re looking for.
  3. Allow time for the cake to come to room temperature before serving. This usually takes about 30 minutes and will ensure the frosting is soft and the cake is moist.

The Bottom Line on Sheet Cake Storage

If you’re still unsure whether your particular Costco sheet cake needs to be refrigerated, consider these points:

  • Standard buttercream or non-dairy whipped icing cakes can generally be kept at room temperature for a couple of days.
  • Cakes with perishable toppings or fillings need to be refrigerated to prevent spoilage.
  • Monitor the temperature and environment to keep your cake in the best condition for serving.

Meet

The

Food Safety

Dad

Its me - Dale – a former restaurant manager turned food safety advocate. With years of experience ensuring the highest standards in busy London eateries, I'm here to bring those professional secrets into your home, making food safety simple and enjoyable.
The information on The Food Safety Dad is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.