What size cake should you choose for your layer cake? Our advice based on the number of guests 🎂

A 20 cm layer cake serves 15 to 25 people depending on its height. For 8 to 12 guests, choose a 15 cm cake. For more than 30 guests, opt for a diameter of at least 25 cm.
The number of servings depends on three criteria: diameter, height, and the time of tasting.
Table of Contents
- How many servings in a 15, 20, or 25 cm layer cake?
- What's the difference between classic and gourmet servings?
- What size layer cake for 15 people?
- How to calculate the number of servings by diameter and height?
- 20 cm layer cake: how many people?
- Order your layer cake in 4 steps
How many servings in a 15, 20, or 25 cm layer cake?
15 cm layer cake: 8 to 12 servings
This size is suitable for small groups. A brunch for 8 people. A dinner with 10 friends. An intimate birthday for 12 guests.
With a height of 10 cm, count 12 generous servings. If the cake is 15 cm high, plan for up to 18 servings.
Real-life example: Sophie orders a chocolate raspberry layer cake of 15 cm for her birthday in the 11th arrondissement. She invites 8 friends for an afternoon snack. Everyone gets a nice slice.
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20 cm layer cake: 15 to 25 servings
The star size of artisanal pastry. It impresses without being excessive. Perfect for 15 to 20 guests depending on the occasion.
A 20 cm cake with a 10 cm height yields 20 classic servings. The same size with a 15 cm height yields up to 30 thin servings.
Concrete case: Léa organizes a surprise dinner in the Marais. 14 guests at the table. Her 20 cm vanilla caramel layer cake delights everyone. There are even three slices left for the next day.
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25 cm layer cake: 30 to 50 servings
Reserve this size for large events. A wedding for 40 people. A baby shower for 35 guests. A corporate celebration for 50 employees.
A 25 cm cake with a 12 cm height offers approximately 35 servings. To serve 50 people, opt for a 28 cm diameter or a two-tier cake.
What's the difference between classic and gourmet servings?
Classic servings: 2.5 cm wide for after-meal treats
A classic serving measures 2.5 cm wide by 5 cm deep. Volume: 125 cm³. This size is suitable after a hearty meal.
Guests have already eaten well. A thin slice is enough to end on a high note.
Practical calculation: a 20 cm diameter layer cake with a 10 cm height yields 24 classic servings.
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Gourmet servings: 4 to 5 cm wide for snacks
A gourmet serving measures 4 to 5 cm wide. Volume: 155 to 200 cm³. It is preferred when the cake is the main attraction.
A birthday snack. A sweet brunch. A coffee break with the layer cake as the only sweet treat.
Practical calculation: the same 20 cm cake offers 16 to 18 gourmet servings.
What size layer cake for 15 people?
For 15 people, two options work depending on the context.
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Option 1: 18 cm layer cake
Recommended height: 10 to 12 cm high. Number of servings obtained: 16 to 18 gourmet servings. Ideal if the cake is served for a snack or as the main course.
Scenario: Claire chooses this size for her daughter's birthday in the 15th arrondissement. 13 children and 2 adults. The 18 cm by 12 cm high vanilla raspberry cake is a hit.
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Option 2: 20 cm layer cake
Recommended height: 8 to 10 cm. Number of servings obtained: 18 to 20 classic servings. Perfect if the cake is served after a full meal.
Scenario: Thomas organizes a dinner at his home in Montmartre for his 35th birthday. 15 guests at the table. The menu is hearty. The 20 cm by 8 cm chocolate hazelnut layer cake arrives for dessert.
How to calculate the number of servings by diameter and height?
Table for 10 cm high layer cake
| Diameter | Classic servings | Gourmet servings |
|---|---|---|
| 15 cm | 12-14 | 8-10 |
| 18 cm | 16-18 | 12-14 |
| 20 cm | 20-24 | 16-18 |
| 25 cm | 32-36 | 24-28 |
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Table for 15 cm high layer cake
| Diameter | Classic servings | Gourmet servings |
|---|---|---|
| 15 cm | 18-20 | 14-16 |
| 18 cm | 24-28 | 18-22 |
| 20 cm | 30-36 | 24-28 |
| 25 cm | 48-54 | 36-42 |
Practical tip: always plan for 2 to 3 more servings than the exact number of guests. Unexpected events often occur.
20 cm layer cake: how many people?
A 20 cm layer cake serves between 12 and 24 people depending on three factors.
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Factor 1: the height of the cake
8 cm high cake: 16 to 18 people maximum. Compact size for after-meal.
10 cm high cake: 18 to 20 people. Most common standard height.
15 cm high cake: 24 to 28 people. Generous size for large groups.
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Factor 2: serving time
After a hearty meal: the 20 cm cake is suitable for 20 to 24 people. Servings are thinner.
For a snack or as the main course: the same cake serves 14 to 18 people. Servings are more generous.
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Factor 3: type of guests
Group of children: plan for average servings. A child might ask for more. Count 16 to 18 servings.
Gourmet adults: your friends love pastries. Count 14 to 16 generous servings.
Mixed family group: the average balances out. Follow the standard recommendations of 18 to 20 servings.
Order your layer cake in 4 steps
You now know what size to choose based on your guests. You understand the difference between classic and gourmet servings.
Your next actions:
- Count your guests and add 2 to 3 for margin
- Choose your flavor according to the group's tastes
- Select the appropriate diameter for the number of servings
- Specify your delivery slot in Paris
The cake arrives in its insulated box. You unwrap it in front of your guests. The visual is impressive. The first bites confirm the quality.
Delivery is hand-delivered. The delivery person contacts 15 minutes before. No cake is left at a doorstep.
Make your next occasion unforgettable – discover our artisanal creations delivered in Paris.
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