How Many Cookies Do I Need?

Quick answer: Plan on 2 cookies per person. For 20 guests you need 40 cookies, and for 50 guests you need 100 cookies. Use our free calculator below for exact amounts.

Classic party dessert. Plan for 2-3 cookies per person.

40 cookies

for 20 people

Estimated cost: $20 - $60

How Many Cookies for Your Party?

5 people 8 people 10 people 15 people 20 people 25 people 30 people 40 people 50 people 75 people 100 people

About Our Cookie Calculator

Planning to serve cookies at your next party? Our free calculator takes the guesswork out of party planning. Simply enter the number of guests and we'll tell you exactly how many cookies you need.

How We Calculate Cookie Quantities

Our calculations are based on industry-standard serving sizes used by professional caterers:

  • Average servings per person: 2 cookies
  • Servings per cookie: 1
  • Price range: $0.5 - $1.5 per cookie

Tips for Ordering Cookies

  • Offer variety: chocolate chip, sugar, oatmeal
  • Store in airtight containers at room temperature
  • Can be baked 3 days ahead
  • Slice-and-bake dough makes party prep easy
  • Arrange on tiered platters for display

Frequently Asked Questions About Cookie

How many cookies per person?

Plan for 2-3 cookies per person at a party. If cookies are the only dessert, lean toward 3. If serving alongside cake or other sweets, 2 is plenty.

How far ahead can I bake cookies?

Most cookies stay fresh 3-5 days in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months—thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes.

What's the best cookie variety for parties?

Offer 2-3 types: one chocolate (chocolate chip), one classic (sugar or snickerdoodle), and one specialty (oatmeal raisin, peanut butter). This covers most preferences.