Wedding Cake Calculator
Your wedding cake is a centerpiece of your reception, and getting the size right ensures every guest can enjoy a slice without excessive waste or running short. Our wedding cake calculator helps you determine the ideal number of tiers, tier sizes, and total servings needed based on your guest count. Choose between round or square tiers and select your preferred serving size to get detailed recommendations for each tier's dimensions, total servings provided, and estimated costs to help you plan your perfect wedding cake.
Number of wedding guests
How much wedding cake do I need per guest?
A standard wedding cake serving is 1x2x4 inches (about 1.5-2 ounces), which provides one slice per guest. However, not all guests eat cake—typically 70-80% will have a slice. If serving dessert buffet or multiple desserts, plan for 50-60% of guests to eat cake. For cake-only dessert, order servings for 100% of your guest count.
How many servings does a wedding cake tier provide?
Servings per tier vary by size: 6-inch tier serves 12, 8-inch serves 24, 10-inch serves 38, 12-inch serves 56, and 14-inch serves 78 guests. A three-tier cake with 6-inch, 8-inch, and 10-inch rounds serves approximately 74 guests. Square tiers provide 25-30% more servings than round tiers of the same diameter.
What is the average cost of a wedding cake?
Wedding cakes cost $3-$8 per serving on average, with specialty or designer cakes reaching $10-$20+ per serving. A cake for 100 guests typically costs $300-$800. Factors affecting price include flavors, filling complexity, decoration intricacy, fresh flowers, fondant vs buttercream, delivery, and cake stand rental. Simple buttercream cakes cost less than elaborate fondant designs.
Should I choose round or square wedding cake tiers?
Round tiers are traditional and elegant, offering classic presentation. Square tiers provide 25-30% more servings per tier and can look modern or dramatic when stacked. A 10-inch square tier serves about 50 guests versus 38 for a round. Square cakes often cost slightly more due to additional labor. Choose based on aesthetic preference and serving needs.
How many tiers should my wedding cake have?
Tier count depends on guest count and desired height. One tier serves up to 38 guests, two tiers serve 40-75 guests, three tiers serve 75-125 guests, and four tiers serve 125-200+ guests. More tiers create visual impact. Some couples use a small decorative cake for cutting and serve sheet cake from the kitchen, saving money while maintaining presentation.