How Many Custom Cookies Should You Order for a Party?
The short answer: order one decorated cookie per guest when cookies are the favor or the main sweet, and about half that when they are sharing a table with cake and other desserts. Here is how to work it out for your party.
Start with how the cookies will be used
- Party favors: one cookie per guest, plus a few extra for late RSVPs and siblings.
- Main dessert: one to two cookies per guest.
- Dessert table with cake: one cookie for every two guests is usually plenty.
- Gifts: gift boxes are sized per person, so count recipients, not cookies.
Quick guide by guest count
| Guests | Favors | With cake |
|---|---|---|
| 12 | 1 dozen | 1 dozen |
| 24 | 2 dozen | 1 dozen |
| 36 | 3 dozen | 1.5 to 2 dozen |
| 50 | 4 to 5 dozen | 2 to 3 dozen |
Custom sets are usually ordered by the dozen, so round up to the next dozen. Nobody has ever been upset about a leftover cookie.
Things people forget to count
- The birthday kid, who will want a specific one
- Grandparents who "do not want one" and then take two
- A few cookies for photos before the party starts
- One for you, after everyone leaves
Kids' parties versus adult events
At kids' parties almost every child takes a cookie, so count every kid. At adult events such as showers and open houses, some guests skip dessert, so you can order a little lighter if there are other sweets.
Ready with a number? Send your order ticket. Still deciding on a theme? Browse birthday cookie ideas.
Quick answers
How many cookies do I need for 30 guests?
For favors, order 3 dozen so every guest gets one with a few extra. If the cookies sit on a dessert table with cake, 1.5 to 2 dozen is usually enough.
Are custom cookies sold by the dozen?
Custom sets are typically ordered by the dozen. Gift boxes and decorating kits are counted per box or per kit.
Should I order extra cookies?
Yes, a few. Extra guests, siblings and photo cookies add up quickly, and decorated cookies keep well if you have leftovers.