Costco aisle with shopping cart

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Costco’s giant warehouse is filled with bulk items and cult favorites. But among the many highly sought-after products, there are overlooked deals that shoppers continue to sleep on. Looking through Reddit posts and reviews across social media, one must-have item that isn’t getting quite enough love is the ever-versatile pantry staple of vanilla extract. According to customers, the large 16-fluid ounce bottle of pure vanilla extract is an underrated Costco gem that’s well worth the $13.99 price tag.

Most of the time, Costco shoppers are seeking items like large-scale quantities of pastries, frozen foods, or cleaning supplies. As such, something as simple as vanilla extract might go unnoticed. Positive Facebook reviews of the ingredient call it “the only kind I use.” The vanilla extract is even lauded in a Reddit thread, asking users which is the most underrated item at Costco. One comment calls it out by name, stating “Pure Vanilla Extract, 16oz … great stuff especially with all the holiday baking coming up.”

Having a quality vanilla extract in your kitchen is an absolute necessity not just for baking cakes, cookies, and cupcakes, but also for preparing luscious desserts. Whether you’re making a strawberry overnight oats recipe or a no-bake cheesecake, it’s imperative to keep your pantry well-stocked with this Costco offering. The chorus of customer praise for this hidden gem proves why it’s a perfect product.

More love for Costco’s vanilla extract




Bottles of pure vanilla extract at Costco

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According to customers, this Costco version easily beats out any other vanilla extract brands on the market. In a Reddit thread asking users their opinions on the product, customers raved about its low cost and big value. Comments include, “it’s consistently highly rated, especially for the price” and, “it’s great and lasts FOREVER.” Although some comments in the thread mention it’s hard to tell the difference between the pure extract and imitation varieties.

Though imitation vanilla extract or essence is notably cheaper, this under-the-radar pure vanilla extract from Costco is certainly worth the investment. What’s more, when stored correctly in a dark place away from heat, pure vanilla extract can last for a nearly unlimited amount of time. Keeping this in mind, one 16-ounce bottle can serve up between 32 tablespoons or 96 teaspoons for all your favorite recipes.

Take heed of the scores of complementary reviews across Reddit and elsewhere to avoid missing out on this underrated gem. Try making these berry chantilly cupcakes with your new purchase, or this baked ricotta cheesecake, or even this comforting baked rice pudding recipe to revel in the vanilla-flavored goodness.


Dining and Cooking