Work out how many donuts and dozen boxes a party needs, with cost and a sensible buffer so nobody misses out.
Planning guide: appetite varies, and children and morning events usually eat fewer donuts than evening parties. Prices vary by bakery.
Donuts needed
How to use this tool
Type how many people are coming.
1.5 per person is a common party figure; use 1 for a light snack and 2 for a donut-focused event.
A 10% buffer covers late guests and big appetites without much waste.
Donuts are rounded up to whole dozens, since bakeries sell by the box.
Formula & worked example
24 guests at 1.5 donuts each need 36 donuts, or 3 dozen boxes; at $12 a dozen that costs $36.
Limitations — read this before you rely on it
This is a planning guide, not a guarantee: appetite, time of day, other food and dietary needs all change how many donuts are actually eaten.
Frequently asked questions
About 1.5 per person is the usual planning figure; use 1 if there is lots of other food and 2 if donuts are the main treat.
Yes — most bakeries sell by the dozen, and a small surplus is better than running out mid-party.
Twelve, though some bakeries add a thirteenth — the baker’s dozen — so ask when ordering.
Order a small separate box of gluten-free or vegan donuts if any guests need them, rather than guessing from the main count.
They are best the same day; store leftovers airtight at room temperature and eat within a day.