by Amy Jo Browne

Created on: August 02, 2009   Last Updated: August 03, 2009

Entertaining at Christmas time is a great way to spend time with loved ones and a cookie exchange is one of the best. Hosting a Christmas cookie exchange party is fun and easy and I encourage you to do this fun activity.

Each year a few weeks before the holiday gets into full swing, my extended family gathers to decorate cookies. My sisters and older nieces each bring a few dozen cookies to my mom's home where we do a cookie exchange.

While we are doing the cookies exchange there is seasonal music playing and of course assorted snacks. Mom makes this wonderful hot eggnog with a dollop of whipped cream on top. We all enjoy the exchange and our families enjoy the cookies when we go home.

If you are hosting your own Christmas cookie exchange party, here are some tips to keep in mind.

First step is to invite a small group of friends and family, and when you invite ask them to bring at least six dozen cookies. You may want to other types of treats here as well, such as popcorn balls, homemade candy, chocolate covered pretzels, along with the usual holiday flair. So if you have a friend who adores making popcorn balls, tell her to bring some of those.

When you invite your guests have them bring their cookies in a sturdy container, so they can refill it with the goodies that the other invitees bring. Ask them to make sure at least one dozen of their cookies are in a plastic bag. You the host will be removing these cookies from the bag and place them on the table for sampling.

It's always a good idea for any one who comes to bring a copy of the recipe. This is for a few reasons, such as if any of the guests would like to create it themselves. More importantly the recipe shows what is in the treat and if it is something that the guest should not eat it they know at a glance.

The day before the party, purchase some pepperoni, cheese and some crackers. You can purchase what you usually do, but it you purchase the cubed cheese and sliced pepperoni you can simply put it on a serving tray and save yourself time.

When it is time for your guests to arrive turn on the Christmas carols, the Christmas tree and make your home cozy for guests to enjoy. It is better to serve non-alcoholic drinks to your invited guests, try warm eggnog topped with whipped cream, coffee, or milk.

Milk always goes great with cookies and each guest will be handing you a dozen of freshly baked cookies and other treats. Place a platter of these tasty treats on a large table along with platters of pepperoni and cheese.

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