How to Make a DIY Cupcake Carrier Box

Transporting cupcakes without them tipping over or getting smushed can be scary.

They are so pretty when they leave the house, and I want them to still be pretty when they arrive at the party!

Store-bought carriers are handy but often flimsy, expensive, or not the correct size. So why not make your own?

This DIY cupcake carrier box is a sturdy, reusable solution that keeps your sweet treats safe while on the go.

Let’s get building and keep those cupcakes looking as good as they taste!

Supply List

Some links may be to similar items when the exact items can't be found online.

• ¼-inch Plywood
• ½-inch Plywood
• Drawer Handle
• Table Saw
• Sander
• Router
• Router Bits
• Impact Driver
• Hole Saw
• Wood Glue
• Finish Nails

Cuts

¼-inch Plywood

• 11" x 11" (front)
• 2 @ 11" x 10.5"(cupcake shelves)

½-in Plywood

• 10.5" x 11.5" (top)
• 2 @ 11" x 22" (both sides)
• 11" x 11.5" (bottom)
• 11.5" x 11.5" (back)

Instructions

Use a router to cut a ¼” dado, or groove, along the side of the 11” x 22” board following the dimensions in the picture.

This will be for the front panel.

Cutting it as one piece eliminates the need to cut two separate grooves with the router.

Cut both of the side pieces out of the board with the dado. Each side piece should measure 11” x 10.5”

Using the router, create a ¼” groove that follows the dimensions in the picture below.

This will be for the cupcake shelves.

Drill a hole in the front panel using a 1” - 1.5” hole saw centered horizontally and about 1.5 - 2” from the top.

I also used a wood-burning tool to write out the word “cupcakes.” This is totally optional, but I love how it looks!

Drill holes in the cupcake trays with 2 ⅛” hole saw.

Start by finding the center point and then evenly spacing the remaining holes. 

Attach both side pieces to the bottom piece using wood glue and finish nails

Attach the back piece to the sides and bottom using wood glue and finish nails, keeping the project square. 

Attach the top using wood glue and finish nails. 

Slide in the cupcake trays. You may need to sand down the edges if they are slightly off.

I would suggest using a belt or bench sander and then smoothing it with a palm sander. 

Slide in the front panel.

Last, attach the handle to the top of the cupcake box. 

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love my new cupcake carrier.

The most fabulous feature of this cupcake box is the pull-out trays.

They're perfect to grab a tray and dish out the cupcakes, especially if everyone is jumping out of pure cupcake excitement!

Who is ready to build their own?

More Building Plans

Don't put those tools away yet. There are more fun things to make!