is it worth it? will she like it?

Janet, My granddaughter is really into these dolls so she seemed to enjoy it when she opened at Christmas. It was not a pricesy item but I personally did not think it looked worth the $8 or $9 I paid for it. Think I could have gone to the Dollar General & got similar for $1 or 2 but than again it would not be the official American Girl !!!!! item.

do the cupcakes and cookies come off of their respective trays?

Yes, on the set we bought the cookies and cupcakes come out.

Hello, Could it be for a Barbie doll ? Best regards

No, this set is really too big for Barbies. Fits with all the 14” & 18” American Dolls. Could also work with Baby Dolls.

Does it come in a box so I can give it out as a gift? Or are all the pieces loose. In a shipping box?

Yes they come securely in a box and are set in a clear plastic base. These pieces are more like Barbie doll / Brat doll size instead of 18inch doll size. They were tiny. I was disappointed and didn't end up giving them to my daughter for Christmas. I bought a cute tea set instead that has been much better.