How Many Cupcakes for a Wedding?
It can be overwhelming planning a wedding and trying to figure how many cupcakes you need to order!
And when it comes to planning a wedding, every detail matters, including the sweet treats that delight your guests.
Cupcakes have become a popular choice for weddings, offering a delightful alternative to traditional wedding cakes. They are portable and approachable and can be elegant, classic or whimsical based on how you decorate and display them!
However, determining the right quantity of cupcakes can be a bit of a conundrum.
I make it SO easy to decide how many cupcakes to have at your wedding, here’s few factors and some quick calculations for you!
Guest Count: The most crucial factor in determining the quantity of cupcakes is the number of guests attending your wedding.
It's essential to have enough cupcakes to ensure everyone gets to enjoy this sweet indulgence.
Start by creating a guest list and use it as a foundation for estimating the number of cupcakes needed.
For 50-75 Guests:
I recommend a minimum of 2 dozen of each flavor and a maximum of 3 flavors of cupcakes for an order of 6-7 dozen cupcakes
For 80-120 Guests:
I recommend a minimum of 3 dozen of each flavor and a maximum of 4-5 flavors of cupcakes
For 130-175 Guests: I recommend a minimum of 4 dozen of each flavor and a maximum of 4-5 flavors of cupcakes
Figure in Flavors
When choosing flavors: make sure one is a “plain jane” that will appeal to the crowd and then have fun with the other 2 flavors!
Make sure that flavors that you choose reflect your personalities as a couple.
And you can get creative with the flavors! We’ve recreated favorite desserts like German Chocolate Cake Cupcakes and even a Citrus Cupcake with Lemon Curd and a Crumble that was a favorite dessert that the couple had enjoyed when they got engaged at Disney World!
Cupcake Size and Presentation:
The size of the cupcakes and how they are presented also play a role in determining the quantity.
Standard-sized cupcakes provide a generous serving. while mini cupcakes offer a smaller, bite-sized option. Consider the overall aesthetic of your wedding and whether you want a grand display of a towering cupcake tower or a more understated presentation on each table.
Standard Sized Cupcakes: one cupcake per person + an extra dozen per 100 guests
For standard sized cupcakes for 100 guests:
90 guests @ 1 cupcake per person = 90 standard sized cupcakes + 10 extra = a grand total of 100 standard sized cupcakes
100 guests @ 1 cupcake per person = 100 standard sized cupcakes + 12 extra = a grand total of 112 standard sized cupcakes
150 guests @ 1 cupcake per person = 150 standard sized cupcakes + 18 extra = a grand total of 168 standard sized cupcakes
Mini-Sized Cupcakes: 1.5 cupcakes per person + an extra dozen per 100 guests. So if you are expecting 150 guests and are having mini cupcakes you’d figure it out like this:
150 guests x 1.5 cupcakes = 225 Mini Cupcakes
90 guests x 1.5 cupcakes = 135 Mini Cupcakes
Consult with Your Baker: A professional baker experienced in wedding desserts can be a valuable resource when determining the right quantity of cupcakes. Share your guest count, preferences, and any dietary considerations with your baker. They can provide guidance based on their expertise and ensure that you have a perfect balance of flavors and quantities.
Consider Dietary Preferences:
In today's diverse culinary landscape, it's important to consider dietary preferences and restrictions.
Some guests may have allergies or dietary restrictions, including options for those with gluten-free, vegan, or other dietary needs. This may impact the overall quantity needed as you'll want to ensure there are enough options for everyone.
How Artisan Bake Shop Helps You With Guests Who Have Dietary Preferences:
Do you have any guests with special dietary restrictions? If you don’t now, you will later on! Trust us!
When your Wedding RSVP Final Count is Due: you’ll send along: each guests name/table number/dietary restriction and we will accommodate these guests with individually boxed complimentary cupcakes in chef's choice flavors.
Factor in Other Desserts:
While cupcakes may take center stage, it's also common to have additional dessert options at weddings, such as a small cutting cake, a dessert table, or even a candy bar.
Consider how these other sweet treats will complement the cupcakes and adjust the quantity accordingly.
Choosing the right quantity of cupcakes for your wedding involves careful consideration of various factors, including guest count, dietary preferences, cupcake size, and overall presentation. By keeping these factors in mind and consulting with a professional baker, you can ensure that your wedding dessert table is a delightful and memorable experience for all your guests.
