How many calories in a small triple chocolate muffin from Costco?

November 5, 2025 •

3 min read

Fact: A single bakery muffin can sometimes contain as many calories as a small meal. Knowing precisely how many calories in a small triple chocolate muffin from Costco is essential for anyone tracking their intake, especially since the product recently changed in size and formulation. The new, smaller Kirkland Signature Triple Chocolate Muffin contains approximately 410 calories.

Quick Summary

The newer, smaller Kirkland Signature triple chocolate muffin from Costco contains 410 calories, a notable decrease from the much larger, older bakery muffins.

Key Points

New Calorie Count: The smaller Kirkland Signature triple chocolate muffin has approximately 410 calories.
Size Reduction: Costco recently shrank the size of its muffins from a larger version to a smaller, regular-sized product.
Recipe Change: The new muffins feature a different recipe using butter and sour cream, changing the taste and texture.
High-Calorie Treat: Despite the smaller size, the muffin is still a high-calorie item that should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Older Muffins Were Larger: The previous, larger Double Chocolate muffin was much higher in calories, around 689 kcal.
Moderation is Key: Mindful consumption and portion control are important for enjoying this treat responsibly.
Healthy Alternatives: Opting for dark chocolate, homemade treats, or a yogurt parfait can be healthier ways to satisfy a chocolate craving.

The Shift to Smaller Muffins

Costco is famous for its bulk items, but in December 2024, the bakery section underwent a significant change that affected one of its most popular treats: the muffins. The original, massive muffins were replaced with a new, smaller-sized version, now sold in an 8-pack. This change also came with a reformulated recipe, featuring butter and sour cream, which altered the taste and nutritional profile. For shoppers accustomed to the hefty, calorie-dense originals, the new smaller size directly impacts the overall energy intake from a single muffin.

The Nutritional Profile of the New Costco Triple Chocolate Muffin

According to Costco's online delivery service, the new Kirkland Signature Triple Chocolate Muffin clocks in at 410 calories per serving. This makes the new version a lower-calorie option than the older bakery muffins. While the exact macronutrient details for the new Triple Chocolate flavor are not widely publicized, reports suggest that fat and sugar are still significant contributors to the overall calorie count. For example, the older, larger muffins were extremely high in sugar and fat. The new formulation reportedly uses butter and sour cream, which contribute to a richer flavor but still add fat and calories.

For those on a diet, understanding the complete nutritional picture is crucial. The key to enjoying an indulgent treat like this lies in mindful consumption and factoring it into your daily calorie budget. A treat this rich is not designed for everyday eating but can be enjoyed occasionally within a balanced diet.

A Comparison: Old vs. New Costco Muffins

Understanding the evolution of the Costco muffin is key to appreciating the current nutritional landscape. The old muffins were considerably larger and, therefore, contained more calories and fat. The new muffins, while smaller, are still a rich, dessert-like treat. The following table compares the approximate nutritional information, based on available data, for the old large muffins versus the new smaller version.


Feature	Older, Larger Muffin (Double Chocolate)	Newer, Smaller Muffin (Triple Chocolate)
Calories	~689-690 kcal	~410 kcal
Size	Very large, sold in 12-packs	Smaller, regular-sized, sold in 8-packs
Recipe	Uses soybean oil	Uses butter and sour cream
Fat	High (around 38g)	Lower due to smaller size
Saturated Fat	High (around 11g)	Lower due to smaller size
Carbohydrates	High (around 79g)	Lower due to smaller size
Sugar	High (around 48g)	Lower due to smaller size

Integrating Indulgences into a Balanced Diet

Practice Portion Control: If you find the new muffin is too large for your calorie goals, consider cutting it in half and saving the other half for later. Pairing a smaller portion with a healthier snack like fruit can help manage cravings without overindulging.
Mindful Eating: Savor every bite of your muffin. Eating slowly and without distractions can help you feel more satisfied and prevent overconsumption.
Balance with Nutrients: Ensure the rest of your meals for the day are rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats. This will help balance the sugar and saturated fat from the muffin and keep you feeling full and energized.
Plan Ahead: If you know you want to have a muffin, adjust your other meals accordingly. A lighter breakfast or lunch can help you fit the treat into your daily calorie allowance without derailing your diet.

Healthier Alternatives to Chocolate Muffins

For those seeking a more nutritious option, several alternatives can satisfy a sweet tooth without the calorie load:

Dark Chocolate: A small square of high-quality dark chocolate offers rich flavor with less sugar and may provide antioxidant benefits.
Homemade Muffins: Baking your own muffins allows you to control the ingredients. You can reduce sugar, use whole wheat flour, and add high-fiber ingredients like oats or nuts.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with fresh berries and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for a protein-rich, sweet snack.
Protein Shake with Chocolate Flavor: If you're craving chocolate but want more protein, a protein shake can be a satisfying alternative.

Conclusion

While the new, smaller triple chocolate muffin from Costco has a lower calorie count than its predecessor at 410 calories, it remains an indulgent treat. It's a reminder that baked goods, even in smaller sizes, can be calorie-dense. Enjoying it as an occasional treat, while prioritizing nutrient-dense foods for the rest of your diet, is the most sustainable approach for long-term health. Understanding the nutritional facts empowers you to make informed decisions and enjoy your food responsibly.

Note: Nutrition information can vary. For the most accurate data, always check the product packaging.

Visit the official Costco website for current product information

Frequently Asked Questions

The new Kirkland Signature Triple Chocolate Muffin from Costco contains approximately 410 calories per muffin.

Yes, Costco changed its muffins in late 2024. The original large muffins were replaced with a smaller, regular-sized version, and the recipe was updated to use butter and sour cream instead of soybean oil.

The older, large Double Chocolate muffin contained around 689 calories. The new, smaller Triple Chocolate muffin has significantly fewer calories, at 410.

While it has fewer calories due to its smaller size, it is still an indulgent, calorie-dense treat. It should not be considered a 'healthy' snack but can be enjoyed in moderation.

If you are counting calories, it is best to enjoy a muffin as an occasional treat. Consider eating only half a muffin at a time and balancing it with other low-calorie, nutrient-dense foods throughout your day.

No, calorie counts can vary by flavor. For example, some of the old muffins had slightly different calorie counts. Always check the nutritional information for the specific muffin flavor and size you are purchasing.

The specific reasons are not officially stated, but food trends and customer feedback often influence such changes. Some people prefer smaller portions, and the new recipe was formulated to offer a different taste and texture.