Top Tips and Recipes for Hosting a Great Cookie Exchange

McCormick Kitchens, McCormick

November 19, 2020

Whether you’ve hosted a cookie exchange for years or are looking for a fun and safe way to connect with your local neighbors and friends, here are our best tips for hosting one virtually this year! Plus, we’ve complied our favorite tasty cookie recipes made with holiday spices and extracts, so you know it’s gonna be great.

TIPS:

Keep the guest list small and local. Don’t stress out by inviting too many people. The safety of your family and guests is most important. And no one wants to bake a ton of cookies. Aim for five to 10 people.
Invite people who share your love for holiday cookies. Try to invite people who enjoy being in the kitchen and welcome sharing their treats and recipe secrets.
Ask guests package cookies in individual portions. First, specify what constitutes a serving per guest. Second, make sure your guests put every serving in an individual package per guest, like resealable plastic bags or storage containers for more delicate cookies.
Pick a central, outside location to exchange cookies. Pick a central location that’s outside where you can quickly and safely exchange cookies about an hour before your virtual get together.
Have everyone supply the recipe. You might ask your guests to write or print out their recipe to include in their individual packages. Or you can ask them to send their recipe to you by e-mail and then you can compile and distribute in one electronic document after your event.
Make time to share stories via a video conference. Many guests like to tell the stories behind the cookies they choose to bake. You’ll likely hear some heartwarming or hilarious stories, and maybe even some helpful tricks.
Remember to have fun. Take time to check-in and see how everyone has been and share what other traditions they’re planning this year. While the party is about cookies, it’s also about connecting, having fun, and picking up a few new recipes to try.