The Costco Muffin Birthday Cake Hack That Left Instagram Speechless

Cooking "hacks" are tricks and tips that can take a bit of stress out of the culinary process (per NPR). Most cooks use hacks to save time or to make processes easier, even those well-established in the industry. People lists a few hacks developed by celebrity chefs, such as Mark Bittman's tip to tenderize chicken by poaching it in white wine. And to jumpstart your seasonings, Chef Max Boonthanakit recommends using a skillet to toast whole peppercorns to enhance their flavor.

Famed baker Duff Goldman also offers some insight into getting more out of your dessert recipes. Goldman suggests that adding a "pinch of salt" to baked cakes and other sweet treats is the perfect way to enliven the flavors. On the other hand, Alex Guarnaschelli offers a dough shortcut that involves adding candies or pieces of chocolate to premade store-bought dough prior to baking. The result is a fanciful cookie that is a downright breeze to make. Other store-bought items can also be used to perform impressive culinary hacks, such as Costco muffins.

Much like many other goods sold at Costco, the wholesale chain's muffins have made quite a reputation for themselves. During a taste test conducted by Insider, the reviewer noted the "enormous" size of the muffins and commented on their remarkable heft and "density." The ensuing test found that the blueberry muffin came out on top thanks to its subtle flavor, pleasing texture, and juiciness of the blueberries (despite the tester noting that the muffin was not completely baked inside).

Costco's almond-poppy muffin was also heralded for its intriguing flavor combinations and its consistency, thereby earning the designation of being "easiest to eat in a large quantity." The reporter was not as impressed by the double chocolate due to its uninspiring flavor and dry texture. Overall, the reporter found the quality of even the lackluster muffins high and stated that it was challenging to choose a single winner. This sentiment is shared by a daring baker on Instagram, who discovered a Costco muffin hack for the ages.

As explained by What to Expect, smash cakes are provided to young children during birthday parties and have the sole purpose of being smashed. Instead of ruining the larger cake intended for friends and family, the smaller smash cake is placed in front of the little one, who is then free to completely destroy it. It ends up being a cute spectacle for guests, while also allowing the child to have a bit of messy fun.

Because smash cakes will ultimately be destroyed, it doesn't make much sense to put a lot of work into making one. Fortunately, one Instagram user has the perfect solution. According to a video shared on her page, harried moms and dads can make an easy smash cake using two Costco muffins. Start by cutting the tops off each muffin to ensure an even surface. Next, place one muffin on the bottom and apply icing and fruit filling. The second muffin goes on top, which also receives a generous helping of icing. The "cake" can then be decorated to your preferences and given to your child for an unforgettable birthday experience.