Planning a cookie exchange is one of the easiest (and most fun) ways to celebrate the season with friends, family, or your favorite baking buddies. If you've never hosted one before, don’t worry—this post will walk you through everything you need to know to throw a fun, organized, and memory-filled cookie exchange party.

What Is a Cookie Exchange?

A cookie exchange (also called a cookie swap) is a holiday get-together where everyone brings a big batch of homemade cookies to share. Each guest leaves with a box full of cookies in different flavors—plus new recipe ideas and sweet memories.

I’ve been going to cookie exchanges since I was a little girl in the 70s, tagging along with my mom to her homemakers group in Richmond, KY. I remember sneaking a cookie (or two) while the grown-ups laughed and swapped recipes. These days, I host my own swaps with friends, and it’s become one of my favorite holiday traditions.

Step 1: Invite Guests Early

Start by inviting your guests about a month in advance. I recommend keeping the party between 8–12 people so it feels fun, not overwhelming.

Two weeks before the party, send a reminder email with:

• The final guest count

• Cookie quantity per guest

• Instructions to bring a container to take cookies home

• A request for each guest to send you the name of their cookie

🎁 Need a cute invitation? My Christmas Cheerful Box includes a customizable cookie exchange invitation you can download and personalize. It makes inviting your crew easy—and festive too!

Step 2: Set Up the Cookie Swap Table

Your cookie table is the star of the party! I like to use plastic trays from Dollar Tree—they’re inexpensive, cute, and perfect for displaying cookies. Set out one tray per guest and place them around a large table.

To keep everything organized, I use 4x6 tabletop chalkboards to label each tray with the cookie name and the baker's name. Ask your guests to email their cookie names ahead of time so you can pre-write the signs. That way, when everyone arrives, they know exactly where to put their cookies.

Step 3: Set Up a Tasting Station

To avoid sampling from the swap trays too early, I create a separate table just for snacks and tastings. Here’s how I set it up:

• Ask each guest to bring 4–6 extra “tasting cookies” to add to the snack table

• Arrange those on a shared platter or use individual mini treat cups

• Add charcuterie cups or a small savory snack board to balance the sweets

• Include small plates and napkins for easy snacking

• Set up a self-serve drink station with a signature cocktail like cranberry spritzer or hot spiced cider

This space gives everyone a spot to relax, nibble, and chat before the official swap begins.

Step 4: Host the Cookie Exchange

After everyone’s had a chance to mingle and snack, it’s time to start the exchange! I like to gather everyone and let them take turns picking cookies until all the trays are evenly shared. You can also provide bakery boxes or encourage guests to bring their own containers.

🎉 For extra fun, do a quick vote for:

• Best cookie

• Most creative presentation

• Best flavor twist

Prizes can be simple—like a holiday spatula, mug, or mini cookie cutter.

How Many Cookies Should Each Guest Bring?

A simple rule that works every time:
½ dozen cookies per guest attending.
If 10 guests are coming, each person brings 5 dozen cookies. That ensures everyone gets to take home a full variety without feeling overwhelmed by too much baking.

Why Decorated Cookies Always Steal the Show

If you want your cookies to be the talk of the party, bring decorated sugar cookies! Whether they’re shaped like snowflakes, reindeer, trees, or gingerbread people, decorated cookies always turn heads.

Even simple icing and sprinkle designs make a big impression. They look festive, photograph beautifully, and are usually the first to be picked. Decorated cookies show creativity and effort—and make your table stand out.

The Most Memorable Cookies I’ve Seen

Some of the most unforgettable cookies I’ve seen weren’t fancy—they were meaningful. A grandmother’s molasses cookie recipe, hand-piped sugar cookies with names on them, or cookies shaped like a sweet gingerbread people. When a cookie comes with a story or a little extra love, people remember it.

FAQs About Decorated Cookies

What are the best cookies to bring to a cookie exchange?

Decorated sugar cookies, shortbread, biscotti, and any sturdy cookie that holds up well to stacking and traveling.

How far in advance can I decorate cookies?

Decorate 1–3 days before your party. Once dry, store in an airtight container at room temperature.

How do I package decorated cookies?

Use shallow containers with parchment between layers. For extra charm, wrap them in clear bags or themed boxes.

Can I freeze decorated cookies?

Yes! Once the icing is completely dry, freeze them in a single layer before stacking. Thaw in the container at room temp to avoid smudging. You can learn more about freezing cookies in this BLOG POST

FAQs About The Cheerful Baker

Who is The Cheerful Baker?

I’m a cookie decorator, teacher, and creative entrepreneur who helps bakers have fun and gain confidence with decorating. I teach online, design cookie cutters, and create resources for cookie lovers.

What is The Cheerful Box?

The Cheerful Box is a monthly cookie decorating subscription. It includes themed cookie cutters, a stencil, and a full decorating class. Each month is a surprise—and always full of inspiration.

Do you offer online cookie decorating classes?

Yes! I offer seasonal, holiday, and themed decorating classes that are beginner-friendly and easy to follow. You can watch them anytime on your schedule.

Where can I find your products?

All my cutters, tutorials, and subscriptions are available at cheerfulbaker.com.

Hosting a cookie exchange is a fun, simple way to bring people together during the holidays. With a little planning, some festive touches, and a table full of cookies, you’ll create a gathering your guests will remember all season long.

And don’t forget—a little icing and creativity go a long way. Decorated cookies aren’t just delicious—they’re unforgettable. So bring your best designs and watch your cookies become the stars of the table!