Costco is known for carrying a wide selection of food items, including many cheese options. One popular cheese item during the holidays is a cheese ball. So does Costco sell cheese balls? The short answer is yes, Costco does sell cheese balls, primarily around major holidays like Christmas and New Year’s.
Types of Cheese Balls at Costco
Costco typically offers a few different varieties of cheese balls during the holiday season:
- Cranberry Cheese Ball – This cheese ball is made with a blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and Parmesan. It has a cream cheese base and is coated in dried cranberries and chopped pecans.
- Blue Cheese Ball – Made with blue cheese, cream cheese, green onions, and walnuts. It has a distinctive blue cheese flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese Ball – A classic creamy cheddar cheese ball rolled in chopped pecans.
- Smoked Gouda Cheese Ball – With a smoky gouda flavor and coated in crushed almonds.
The specific cheese ball varieties and flavors may vary slightly each year, but Costco usually carries their signature cranberry cheese ball and a selection of 2-3 other cheese ball options.
Availability and Pricing
You can typically find cheese balls at Costco during the winter holiday season, generally from late October through December. They are considered a popular appetizer item for holiday parties and gatherings. The availability may vary a bit by location.
The cheese balls are usually priced in the $8.99 to $13.99 range for a 16-20 oz cheese ball. So they are a great value for a ready-to-serve appetizer that can feed large groups.
Packaging and Size
The Costco cheese balls come packaged in a clear plastic container that contains the entire round cheese ball. The container has a lid that the cheese ball can be served out of. The cheese balls are usually around 4-5 inches diameter and weigh 16-20 oz.
The packaging allows the cheese balls to be easily transported to parties or holiday dinners. The clear plastic also lets you see the cheese ball inside so you know exactly what you’re getting.
Shelf Life and Storage
Properly stored, the Costco cheese balls will last around 2 weeks in the refrigerator. Make sure to keep the cheese ball stored in its original container with lid. The lid will help prevent the cheese from drying out.
For longer storage, the cheese balls can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Costco’s cheese balls make great party appetizers. Here are some serving ideas:
- Serve with crackers, bread, celery, and apple slices for dipping.
- Allow to come to room temperature for 30 minutes before serving for best texture.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, nuts, or dried fruit before serving.
- Place on a platter surrounded by grapes or figs.
- Offer a cheese ball spreader next to the cheese ball for easy spreading.
The cheese balls also make great gifts around the holidays. Wrap decoratively with cellophane and a bow.
Nutrition Information
As a cheese-based product, the Costco cheese balls are high in calories, fat, and sodium. A 2 tablespoon serving provides around 100 calories, 9g fat, 6g saturated fat, and 170mg sodium. So they are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Conclusion
In summary, Costco does stock cheese balls seasonally, usually carrying about 3-4 different cheese ball varieties priced around $10-14 each. They make delightful holiday appetizers and gifts. Look for the Costco cheese balls to start hitting store shelves in late October through December.