The way a cookie exchange party works is all the attendees (including the host) bake a set number of their favorite holiday cookies for the party. Then, at the party, all the guests divvy up the cookies evenly. What’s great is that even though everyone only had to bake one kind of cookie, they go home with several dozen different cookies!
How to organize a cookie exchange?
- Send invitations at least ten days in advance to allow people to plan. ...
- Be sure to include a list of clear instructions such as RSVP date, number of cookies to bring, dress code (maybe you want to have a holiday pajama party?!?), and ...
- Use SignUp.com to organize everything in one easy-to-use service. ...
What are the rules for cookie exchange?
The Etiquette of the Cookie Swap
- Remember: it's not a competition. When we think about a cookie swap, it's easy to slip into a competitive mindset. ...
- Coordinate ahead of time. Make a spreadsheet to track who will be bringing which cookies. ...
- Make enough for everyone. ...
- Bring something homemade. ...
- Yes, you should still bring a hostess gift. ...
- Label your cookies for allergens. ...
How do you plan a cookie exchange party?
One Month Before
- Invite friends. Remember, you'll be baking enough cookies for every guest to take home, so don't invite the entire neighborhood. ...
- Determine how much everyone will make. Typically, guests bake a dozen cookies (whether they're Christmas cookies or another type of cookie) for every attendee. ...
- Set ground rules. ...
How to host a cookie swap?
- Choose 1 table to be home base for the cookie swap: Cover it with a tablecloth or butcher's paper.
- Put out empty platters, bowls and plates for everyone's cookies. If you don't have enough, line shirt or shoe boxes with cheery tissue paper to make an inexpensive serving vessel.
- Make sure you label the cookies. ...
What are the rules for a cookie exchange?
Cookie Exchange RulesAll cookies should be homemade.Please bring at least 2 dozen cookies (or more if you'd like!).Print out copies of the recipe to share.Arrange cookies in a basket or platter (be creative!).Bring a large container to carry away your cookies.Christmas attire is encouraged.More items...
How many cookies should you bring to a cookie exchange?
7-8 dozen cookiesCookie Amount: Typically, each participant should bring 7-8 dozen cookies for a successful cookie exchange. It's important that each guest brings enough cookies so everyone has the opportunity to fill up their box. Recipes: Each guest should provide the recipe for the cookie in advance.
What happens at a cookie exchange?
At the party, everyone gets to sample an assortment of cookies baked by other guests, and then leaves with a take-away container of their favorite cookies—and a whole lot of delicious cookie recipes. Host a cookie exchange for the ones you love with our complete party planning guide, including a detailed timeline.
How do you prepare for a cookie exchange?
The Day of the PartySet up drinks. Have cocktails or coffee ready when guests arrive.Put out cookies and food. Finish any last-minute decorations.Make a plan for how everyone will move around the room. And be sure to have guests tell everyone about their recipes.
How do you wrap cookies for a cookie exchange?
Place your cookies in a cellophane bag tied with a ribbon before you place in the box and your cookie packaging will be complete.
How does a Christmas cookie swap work?
At the party, your guests will sample a variety of Christmas cookies and then exchange them with each other. Everyone leaves with a full tummy, recipes, and an edible gift to take home.
How long should a cookie exchange be?
I like to throw a cookie exchange in the week leading up to Christmas, and it will last for about 2 to 3 hours, as everyone is so busy during this time!
Can first party cookies track you?
First and third-party cookies are both to track user behavior. They have similar purposes but are collected and used in different ways.
What do you serve at a cookie swap?
You want guests to leave with their cookie loot—not just eat it all! —so it's a good idea to have some little noshes and bites. Put out some savory appetizers or set up individual cheese and cracker plates. You can also go super casual and fill up a basket with snack-size bags of chips, nuts, or pretzels.
Can I refuse to accept cookies?
Do you have to accept cookies? – The short answer is, no, you do not have to accept cookies. Rules like the GDPR were designed to give you control over your data and browsing history.
How much do cookie time sellers make?
2021 Christmas Cookies Sellers made an AVERAGE $12,718 before tax and business expenses, and the TOP SELLER MADE $37,387 before tax and business expenses!
How many days before an event can you bake cookies?
Most homemade cookies will maintain their taste and texture for up to 3 days.
How many cookies is a good gift?
Four is a good number to start with for an individual. Many cookie recipes, including my Hershey Kiss Cookie recipe, make 48 cookies. That's 12 potential gifts right there!
How many cookies should you gift?
Plan for each basket to hold about two dozen cookies. If you bake 4-6 batches of cookies at one time, you can assemble several gift baskets. Most cookie recipes make 2-4 dozen cookies, so five recipes is enough for 5-10 baskets.
How long should a cookie exchange be?
I like to throw a cookie exchange in the week leading up to Christmas, and it will last for about 2 to 3 hours, as everyone is so busy during this time!
How many cookies do you need per person for Christmas?
A good rule to follow is for every guest to bake a half dozen cookies per each attendee. So, if 10 people attend, each guest would bring five dozen cookies to share. We've put together a chart to help you figure out just how many cookies to ask your guests to make.
How to keep cookies authentic?
To keep the cookie swap authentic, remember to let guests know that all of their cookies should be homemade. Trading Cookies: Once it’s time to trade cookies, keep things organized by having guests line up and walk around the table one-by-one to start filling their boxes with cookies. 4. Cookie Display.
How long should a cookie exchange last?
After you’ve compiled your guest list, you can set a date and time for your cookie exchange party. Since these cookies are meant to last throughout Christmas week, you should set a date within 7 days of Christmas. The weekend before Christmas is a popular time to host a cookie swap or you can choose a weeknight if many of your friends have holiday parties to attend on the weekend. The cookie exchange should only last 2-3 hours.
What kind of cookies are allowed in a cookie swap?
Cookie Type: Each guest is responsible for bringing a certain kind of cookie for the swap. You can make a rule of cookies only or allow guests to bake bars, scones, and brownies. Either way, do your best to avoid duplicates and make a note of what each guest is bringing. Be sure to let guests know any restrictions or additional rules in your holiday invitations.
What to put on a cookie swap table?
Setting up your cookie swap table is the first priority. From table runners to Christmas decor to mixing and matching plates for the cookies, you can get creative with your display. A large table with a mix of cookie platters, cake stands, and holiday plates makes for the perfect cookie display.
What to do at a Christmas party for kids?
You can set up a crafty table with plain sugar cookies, icings, holiday placemats, and toppings to make this Christmas party activity come to life. From Christmas themed toppings to sprinkles, you can provide the children with everything they need to make their own mini-box of decorative Christmas cookies. Don’t be afraid to get creative with cookie shapes and try our Corgi Christmas cookie tutorial or Pineapple Christmas cookie tutorial.
What to do at a cookie swap?
If the cookie swap is during the daytime, you can set out small sandwiches and sides to avoid major clean-up. If you’re hosting a cookie swap during the evening, try a menu of savory appetizers and finger foods. Guests will appreciate a quick break from all of the cookie sampling.
How many people are allowed to attend a cookie swap?
Christmas cookie swap parties usually work best with groups of 8-12 guests. You’ll want to keep your guest list modest so it’s easier to keep track of who’s bringing what. Think of all the bakers, foodies, and festive friends in your group when creating your guest list.
What is cookie exchange?
The purpose of a cookie exchange is that you bake one kind of cookie and, through swapping with friends, end up with an assortment that will last you a while. Here’s how to organize a cookie swap for you and your friends. By Real Simple Editors.
How many cookies do you bake for a Christmas party?
Determine how much everyone will make. Typically, guests bake a dozen cookies (whether they're Christmas cookies or another type of cookie) for every attendee.
How many people should bake cookies for a white elephant?
Remember, you'll be baking enough cookies for every guest to take home, so don't invite the entire neighborhood. Shoot for eight to 10 friends who like to bake and who will have fun spending an evening together—consider the same group you'd include in a white elephant gift exchange.
What to do when you swap cookies?
You’ll be making a large amount of one cookie, so you may be able to buy ingredients in bulk. Set a menu of other snacks and drinks. Have some simple appetizers and beverages on hand during the cookie swap. Consider non-sweet dishes like vegetable dips or finger sandwiches, since you’ll probably be nibbling on cookies.
What to do if guest forgets to bring large container for toting home cookies?
In case a guest forgets to bring a large container for toting home cookies, have supplies on hand.
Can you email cookies to everyone?
Have guests e-mail their delicious cookie recipes afterward. You can compile a master list of them and e-mail it to everyone at once.
Is it a party to bake a rugelach?
Yes, it’s a party, but if you slave over homemade rugelach, you may not be happy when a friend shows up with slice-and-bake. Let guests know what the cookie exchange rules are—such as, cookies should be made from scratch and holiday-themed.