Cookie Scoop Size to Count Calculator
See how many cookies a batch of dough makes for a given scoop size, plus the dough weight per cookie and an approximate baked diameter.
How it works
Dough per cookie ≈ scoop (tbsp) × 17 g · Count = ⌊total dough ÷ per-cookie⌋ · Baked diameter ≈ 1.5 + tbsp × 0.55 in
Portion scoops are sized by a number stamped on the handle — the disher number is how many level scoops fill a quart, so a higher number means a smaller scoop. Weighing each portion (rather than eyeballing) is the single biggest factor in cookies that bake evenly, because uniform dough balls finish at the same time. Cookie dough runs close to 16–18 g per level tablespoon; the baked-diameter figure is a rough guide since spread depends heavily on fat, sugar and dough temperature.
Worked example
A #30 scoop holds about 2 tablespoons, so each cookie is roughly 2 × 17 = 34 g. From 900 g of dough that is 900 ÷ 34 ≈ 26 cookies, each spreading to about 2.6 in and needing ~3.6 in centres on the tray.
Frequently asked questions
What do cookie scoop numbers mean?
The number is how many level scoops it takes to fill one quart. A #30 gives 30 scoops per quart (about 2 tbsp each); a #16 is larger at 16 per quart (about 4 tbsp). Bigger number, smaller cookie.
Should I weigh cookie dough?
For consistency, yes. Weighing each ball to the same gram count means every cookie bakes in the same time and comes out the same size — far more reliable than a scoop that packs unevenly.
Why is the baked size only approximate?
Spread depends on butter temperature, the sugar type, flour and how long the dough chilled. The estimate assumes a typical drop cookie; a high-butter, high-sugar dough will spread wider.
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This calculator is for educational purposes. Double-check important results before acting on them.