The Christmas Cookie Exchange

Six Reasons to Host a Cookie Exchange This Holiday Season

Have you ever been invited to a cookie exchange during Christmas and thought, "How will I find time to bake dozens of cookies with everything else I have to do?" Preparing for Christmas, New Year’s, and other family and work gatherings can feel overwhelming. However, here are six great reasons to make time to bake and share cookies with friends and family this holiday season, as December 22nd is National Cookie Exchange Day!

1. It’s Simply FUN

Baking during the holidays is about creating joy and connection in your home. Involving your kids in the process transforms it from just baking into memory-making. These cherished moments can inspire a family tradition that lasts for generations. Whether you’re decorating sugar cookies or baking grandma’s famous gingerbread, the laughter and love in the kitchen make it all worthwhile.

2. Learn and Teach Something New

Baking new cookie recipes is a chance to try something different. Invite your children or grandchildren to help, and you’re teaching them lifelong skills. It’s like hosting your cooking class at home—where the teacher is mom, dad, or even grandma. Why pay for cooking lessons when you can share your expertise with your loved ones?

3. Fellowship and Connection

The holidays are all about spending time with those you care about. A cookie exchange is the perfect opportunity to gather with family, friends, and neighbors to catch up on the year’s events and express gratitude for one another. It’s a heartwarming tradition that brings people closer together.

4. Enjoy Delicious Food

Cookie exchanges aren’t just about cookies! They’re also a chance to share savory appetizers, casseroles, or creative charcuterie boards. Morning gatherings might feature a hearty breakfast casserole, while evening events can include elegant snacks and dips. Sharing a meal or snack while mingling makes the event even more special.

5. Desserts for Future Gatherings

One of the best parts of a cookie exchange is going home with various beautifully made cookies. With your cookie platter ready for the next holiday gathering, you save time and impress your guests with a stunning array of treats.

6. Motivation to Clean and Decorate

There’s nothing like knowing company is coming to motivate you to tidy up and deck the halls. While cleaning isn’t everyone’s favorite activity, the end result—a clean and inviting home—feels incredibly rewarding. Hosting a party is the perfect push to create a festive space.

A Brief History of the Cookie Exchange

Cookies have a long history, dating back to 7th-century Persia, where sugar availability made cookies possible (National Today, 2024). During the Middle Ages, cookie exchanges began, featuring treats made from dried fruits and spices. By the 1700s, cookies had arrived in New York, and by the 1800s, cookie parties had become widespread (Olson, n.d.). Today, cookie swaps or exchanges are a cherished tradition that brings joy to the holiday season.

The Best Cookie Exchange

Recently, I attended a cookie exchange that was nothing short of perfect. The hostess had her home beautifully decorated for Christmas, and she prepared a delightful breakfast for the 14 attendees. As guests arrived, we placed our cookies on tables in the family room, displaying them in an orderly arrangement for easy selection.

The event featured a cozy beverage station with coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and a festive punch. Breakfast included a sausage and hash brown casserole, fresh fruit, an assortment of breads, and cookies. Before our meal, one of the attendees led us in a heartfelt grace.

In the piano room, we enjoyed a duet performed by two talented pianists and a group singalong of traditional Christmas carols. It was an excellent way to set the holiday mood.

The Rules of Our Cookie Exchange

Our hostess sent out detailed instructions before the event. Each participant was asked to bake four dozen cookies and bring 15 small bags with three cookies per bag, labeled with their name and cookie type. Additionally, we were asked to share our recipes beforehand so the hostess could compile a recipe booklet for everyone—a thoughtful keepsake! Here are some pictures of the Grinch Cookies I made for the exchange. You can find the recipe at the Preppy Kitchen or on YouTube! I ordered some Grinch ornaments from Amazon to add a little fun to the cookie bags.

The Perfect Ending to the Cookie Exchange

After breakfast, music, and fellowship, we collected our bags of cookies. As a final treat, the hostess gifted each attendee a small loaf of her famous sourdough bread. We left with smiles, hearts full of gratitude, and plenty of cookies to enjoy or share.

Share Your Cookie Exchange Ideas!

Are you thinking of hosting a cookie exchange? There are countless ways to make it memorable, from creative cookie packaging to unique event themes. We’d love to hear your favorite tips and traditions for this timeless holiday gathering!

References:

National Today, (2024). National cookie exchange day – December 22, 2024. Retrieved from https://nationaltoday.com/national-cookie-exchange-day/

Olson, R. (n.d.).  The history of the cookie exchange. Retrieved from https://cookie-exchange.com/articles/history_of_the_cookie_exchange.html