The Great Danish Discontinuation of Costco
For years, Costco shoppers enjoyed the large, flavorful almond filled danishes sold in packs in the bakery section. They were a consistent and affordable indulgence. However, in recent years, multiple reports from members have confirmed that these classic pastries have been phased out of many stores. A Reddit post from early 2025 highlighted this change, noting the almond danish was replaced with a 'muffin-like thing'. This move surprised and disappointed many loyal fans who had come to rely on the consistent availability and value of the original product.
While this change has been widespread, a few shoppers have reported the original danishes making a temporary return in some regions. However, for most, the classic is a thing of the past, making way for a new, croissant-based almond pastry.
The Kirkland Signature Almond Croissant Pastry: The New Kid on the Block
In place of the almond danish, Costco's bakery now features the Kirkland Signature Almond Croissant Pastry. This new product is a laminated croissant dough, filled with an almond paste, and topped with sliced almonds and powdered sugar. The product was widely reviewed and praised by food critics and shoppers in 2025, with many noting its high quality, buttery flavor, and generous almond filling.
Current Price and Availability
As of recent reports, the Kirkland Signature Almond Croissant Pastries are priced at approximately $11.99 for a box of six. This makes the per-pastry cost around $2.00, which, as some shoppers have noted, is a great deal compared to what you would find at a specialty bakery.
Key factors affecting price and availability:
- Warehouse vs. Online: Prices for in-store purchases may differ from those offered via same-day delivery apps like Instacart.
- Regional Differences: Like many Costco items, the exact pricing and product availability can vary from one warehouse to another.
- Discontinued Status: The potential return of the original danish is rare and should not be expected in most locations.
How to Tell the Difference
If you are a long-time Costco shopper, it's easy to spot the change. The original danishes were large, rectangular pastries with a pool of almond filling. The newer almond croissants have a more defined, rounded, and muffin-like shape. Visually, the new pastry has a more visible, flaky, laminated crust, while the old one had a softer, more uniform dough.
Comparison Table: Original Danish vs. New Croissant
| Feature | Original Almond Filled Danish | Kirkland Signature Almond Croissant Pastry |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Large, often braided or twisted pastry with a generous, flat almond filling. | Muffin-shaped with a distinct flaky, croissant-like texture. |
| Packaging | Typically sold in a single large tray, often in a mix-and-match variety pack. | Usually sold in a dedicated box of six pastries. |
| Quantity | 8 pastries per pack (at discontinuation). | 6 pastries per pack. |
| Approx. Price | $12 per pack (at discontinuation). | $11.99 per pack (as of 2025). |
| Per-Unit Cost | ~$1.50 per pastry (pre-2025). | ~$2.00 per pastry (as of 2025). |
| Taste Profile | Classic, often very sweet almond paste. | Buttery, flaky dough with a balanced, less intensely sweet almond filling. |
Nutritional Considerations
For those mindful of their diet, the original almond danish was notably high in calories, with one single pastry containing around 760 kcal. The newer almond croissants are a different product entirely, but as with all bakery treats, they are an indulgence. The specific nutritional data may differ, so it is always wise to check the packaging in-store for the most current information. Some shoppers have found the new version's almond filling to be less overpowering in sweetness, which may make it a more pleasant treat.
Conclusion
While the original almond filled danish at Costco is largely a memory, the current offering—the Kirkland Signature Almond Croissant Pastry—provides a satisfying and delicious alternative. At roughly $11.99 for six pastries, it still represents excellent value compared to what you would pay at a high-end bakery. The key for prospective buyers is to set expectations for the new product rather than a rehash of the old. Availability and precise pricing can always vary, so a quick check at your local warehouse is the best way to confirm what’s currently on the shelves. Whether you're a long-time member or a newcomer, the Costco bakery continues to deliver on quality and flavor, even as its product lineup evolves.
You can read a past review of the Kirkland Signature Almond Danish here for a trip down memory lane.
