Cookie swap 101 from Sandra Lee!

Cookie swaps have become a beloved part of Christmas!” says celebrity chef Sandra Lee, author of 27 books, including Easy Entertaining at Home. “It’s an inexpensive way to really have fun with the holiday season, catch up with old friends and make new ones!” Here’s how to organize an extra-special swap:

Decide on a guest list!

To ensure enough variety but prevent cookie chaos, aim for a group of six to 12 people. Ask guests to bring just one type of cookie and have everyone bring the same amount—three to five dozen is the norm. “Don’t limit your guest list to close friends,” advises Sandra. “Cookie swaps are the perfect way to bring in people you’re not as familiar with. When someone brings their signature cookie, it comes with a story and a point of view that lets you get to know them!”

Add a touch of baking fun!

“Every year, I put a baking-themed mini Christmas tree in my kitchen!” reveals Sandra. “The ornaments are cookie cutters, real gingerbread and even little rolling pins. Another sweet touch is to make a batch of little onebite cookies and put them in candy dishes around the room.”

Arrange a cookie buffet!

“I like to have all the cookies on trays, cake stands or in large jars—glass ones or festive cookie jars— on one big table,” says Sandra. “A beautiful assortment is as pretty as any centerpiece!” Identify cookies with little tent cards or write up a cookie menu on a small chalkboard, and have plenty of tongs and serving spoons.

Sample, then swap!

When guests start to arrive, set aside 15-20 minutes for mingling and sampling cookies, then start swapping! Each person should fill the tin they brought with them— have a few extras handy—with a sampling of all the cookies. YUM! Offer guests a drink that complements cookies. Hot cocoa (see below), eggnog or any creamy or chocolatey cocktail work great!