Costco’s New $8.99 Bakery Item Is Causing a Social Media Divide

Costco's latest bakery item is taking social media by storm, but are these citrusy cinnamon swirls worth the hype?

By Maneesha Tiwari

Edited by Becca Borawski Jenkins

Updated Sept. 24, 2024

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Costco membership perks extend beyond bulk discounts and free samples. Their bakery aisle is constantly churning out exciting new finds, including the latest creation: Sugared Orange Rolls.

This citrusy twist on the classic cinnamon roll recipe has social media in a frenzy. But are they all they're cracked up to be? Let's take a closer look.

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A flavor combination unlike any other

The orange rolls offer a unique flavor combination. They feature classic cinnamon swirls infused with the bright zest of orange, creating a sweet and tangy treat. On platforms like TikTok and Reddit, users are praising the unexpected, yet delicious marriage of flavors, with many calling them a "must-try" item.

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What the fans are saying

For many, the orange rolls have been a delightful surprise. On TikTok, user @costcotv shared, "Not as sweet as you'd think. Pretty good with a cup of coffee," suggesting a more balanced flavor profile.

This sentiment is echoed by Reddit user ExplorerLazy3151, who declared, "For me, it's one of the best things they've made yet! A while ago Starbucks used to make a "morning roll", it reminds me of those... like a thicker elephant ear rolled up.."

Not everyone’s sold

Some social media users found the reality didn't quite live up to the hype. Redditor solohaldor expressed disappointment with the flavor profile, stating, "They are not that great ... the 'orange' tastes like star anise imo ... would be significantly better if they left that out."

Redditor prostatooshun_whorah went further: “These were a no for us. They were very dry, and had an overpowering artificial orange flavor and scent. We tossed them in the bin outside because they made our entire kitchen smell like that old orange aerosol air freshener.”

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Budget-friendly bulk buy (but beware availability)

These colossal buns come at a budget-friendly price of $8.99 for a box of nine. However, with their newfound fame, availability can be a concern. Be prepared for potential stock shortages, especially at the beginning of the week. Calling ahead to your local Costco is recommended to avoid disappointment.

The bottom line

Costco's orange rolls are undeniably a trendy treat, but the "bulk buy" factor requires some thought. While the price per roll is tempting, nine rolls are a lot to consume before they lose their freshness.

If you want to give the rolls a try, consider splitting the cost with a friend or neighbor to avoid throwing your money away in potential food waste if you end up in the “no” camp when it comes to this new product.

Editor's Note: Generative AI tools helped write this story.

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