How to Launch a Holiday Cookie Exchange Party
Getting social again after our long, Covid-19-induced isolation is wonderful, but it can also be overwhelming. A cookie party is an easy, stress-free gathering to throw.
For an even easier gathering, make it a cookie exchange party!
How do you throw a cookie party?
First, let’s talk about when you should throw your cookie swap party. We’ve found the best date is the weekend after Thanksgiving. People are off work, are just starting to get into the holiday spirit, and don’t have too many commitments to worry about yet.
Send out your invitations well in advance. We also recommend scheduling your party in the mid-afternoon hours; you’ll only be serving cookies, not primary lunch or dinner foods. You don’t want to spoil anyone’s appetite. Of course, you might also serve cookies while directing your guests to just wrap theirs and gift them to one another; if you have many guests it could be easy for everyone to get sick trying to eat all the cookies at once. Put some out on a plate for your guests to enjoy all the same.
Then, add some cookie-themed decorations to your home to get everyone in the mood.
What do you serve at a cookie party?
Don’t just think about the cookies; think about everything else, too. For example, what will your guests be drinking?
We recommend milk as the perfect stand-by, but there are other options.
- Eggnog is a classic choice (especially boozy eggnog)!
- New Orleans Milk Punch offers a classic twist on “cookies n’ milk”
- Milkshakes
- Hot coffee
- Hot chocolate
- Sparkling punch
- Sodas
If you want a fun twist, you could use disposable, yet festive, cups, glasses, and plates to serve up the cookies and their beverage accompaniment.
If you’re having a longer party, you might add some protein-rich party foods just to ensure that your guests don’t go into sugar shock. Savory appetizers like cheese and sausage can ensure that everyone stays healthy throughout the gathering.
What are the rules for a cookie exchange?
The rules are pretty simple. Everyone makes cookies and brings them to share. Need cookie wrapping ideas?
While asking everyone to bring their favorite recipe is ideal, people are pressed for time and energy. We recommend making sure that your guests know that store-bought cookies are just fine.
Finally, you might consider a recipe exchange to keep the conversation flowing. If you ask everyone to submit their recipes beforehand, you could even use index cards and a pretty box to make a beautiful party favor that will help build a happy memory of your party every time one of your guests makes the recipe!
Ready to throw your holiday cookie exchange party?
If you need supplies for decorations or dishware, come on down to Paper Plus! We’re open and ready to help you throw a lovely social!
