How Many Cupcakes Do I Need?

Quick answer: Plan on 1 cupcakes per person. For 20 guests you need 20 cupcakes, and for 50 guests you need 50 cupcakes. Use our free calculator below for exact amounts.

Individual-sized cakes, no slicing needed. Plan for 1 cupcake per person.

20 cupcakes

for 20 people

Estimated cost: $30 - $80

How Many Cupcakes 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 Cupcake Calculator

Planning to serve cupcakes 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 cupcakes you need.

How We Calculate Cupcake Quantities

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

  • Average servings per person: 1 cupcakes
  • Servings per cupcake: 1
  • Price range: $1.5 - $4 per cupcake

Tips for Ordering Cupcakes

  • Order 10% extra for display and accidents
  • Offer 2-3 flavors for variety
  • Mini cupcakes: plan 2-3 per person
  • Use cupcake stands for impressive display
  • Can frost 1 day ahead, store covered

Frequently Asked Questions About Cupcake

How many cupcakes per person?

Plan for 1 standard cupcake per person. For mini cupcakes, plan for 2-3 per person. Always order 10-15% extra for display, accidents, and seconds.

When should I frost cupcakes?

Frost cupcakes the day before or morning of the event. Store unfrosted cupcakes in airtight containers up to 2 days. Frosted cupcakes last 1-2 days covered at room temperature.

How do I transport cupcakes?

Use cupcake carriers with individual compartments. If you don't have carriers, place cupcakes in muffin tins lined with non-slip shelf liner, and cover loosely with foil.