25 Best Christmas Cookie Exchange Recipes

Love holiday baking? Let’s make this Christmas extra sweet with 25 Best Christmas Cookie Exchange Recipes!

Cookie exchanges have always been one of my favorite holiday traditions. There’s just something magical about walking into a room filled with the smell of freshly baked cookies and tables overflowing with sweet treats. I love seeing everyone’s creativity on display—from classic family recipes passed down for generations to fun, experimental cookies that steal the show.

One year, I brought peppermint bark cookies and left with a tin full of new favorites, like snickerdoodle truffles and chocolate-dipped shortbread. But honestly, the best part isn’t just the cookies—it’s the laughter, swapping stories, and gathering with friends and family to share the joy of the season. It’s a little reminder that the holidays aren’t just about treats—they’re about the people you share them with.

Cookies are the heart of every holiday gathering—whether you’re swapping recipes at a cookie exchange or sharing treats with loved ones. But finding cookie recipes everyone will rave about? That can be tricky.

That’s why we’ve rounded up the 25 best Christmas cookie exchange recipes to bring the magic to your kitchen. From timeless classics to creative twists, these recipes are sure to spread holiday cheer and keep your cookie tray the star of the season. Let’s get baking!

Who doesn’t love an edible gift during the holidays? I know I do! This year, why not spread some cheer with homemade cookies from the heart?

Get creative—decorate them with frosting and sprinkles, then pack them up in a festive holiday tin. It’s a thoughtful (and delicious) gift your friends, family, and co-workers will adore!

What is a cookie exchange party?

It’s that time of year—the holiday season is here, and cookie exchange parties are in full swing! If you’ve never been to one, you’re in for a treat. So, what’s a cookie exchange party all about?

It’s a festive gathering where guests bake and bring 7 to 8 dozen of their favorite holiday cookies to swap with others. The host typically coordinates recipes in advance to make sure there’s a variety. By the end of the night, everyone leaves with a platter (or box!) of delicious Christmas cookies—without having to bake a dozen different recipes themselves.

But it’s more than just cookies! A cookie swap is the perfect excuse to gather your favorite people, sip a glass of wine, and celebrate the most wonderful time of the year. You can even add a fun twist by making it a themed event, like an ugly sweater party. Want to take it up a notch? Include festive holiday cocktails for an unforgettable cookie exchange!

How to host a holiday cookie exchange party

Hosting a cookie exchange is a festive way to gather friends and family while sharing holiday treats. It’s simple to plan, and everyone leaves with a delicious variety of cookies—plus some great recipe ideas! Here’s how to pull one off smoothly.

1. Set the date and send invites: Choose a date that works for your group and send out invites early. Be sure to let everyone know how many cookies they’ll need to bake and bring. A good rule of thumb is one dozen cookies per guest, plus a few extra for sampling.
2. Pick a theme (optional): Adding a theme can take your holiday party to the next level. Whether it’s an ugly sweater party, a cookie decorating competition, or a focus on classic holiday flavors, a theme helps set the tone. You could go for a chocolate-lover’s paradise, a “cookies from around the world” spread, or even a nostalgic throwback with recipes inspired by childhood favorites.
3. Plan the setup: Make sure you have a big enough table or counter for everyone to display their cookies. Provide plates or containers so guests can easily take their cookies home.
4. Share recipes: Ask guests to bring printed copies of their recipes to share. You could also collect them ahead of time and email a digital recipe book after the party.
5. Add a personal touch: Consider adding fun elements like holiday music, a hot cocoa station, or a small prize for the most creative cookie. Little extras go a long way to make the event memorable.

With a little planning and creativity, your Christmas cookie exchange can be a memorable and delicious way to celebrate the holiday. From unique recipes to festive decorations, it’s the perfect opportunity to bring people together, share holiday cheer, and, of course, enjoy plenty of cookies!

Whether it’s swapping baking tips, discovering new favorite treats, or just catching up with friends, a cookie exchange is about more than desserts—it’s about creating moments that laat forever.

Most popular Christmas cookies in each state

Have you ever wondered which Christmas cookie is the favorite in your state? Now you can find out—because we’ve got the scoop on the most popular holiday cookies across the U.S.!

In my home state of Pennsylvania, peanut butter blossoms take the crown. In fact, according to General Mills, peanut butter blossoms are the most popular Christmas cookie in the entire country! But wait—there’s more. YouGovAmerica’s data reveals that chocolate chip and sugar cookies are also holiday favorites nationwide (no surprises there).

So, who gets the holiday cookie crown? The top contenders are peanut butter blossoms, chocolate chip, and sugar cookies.

What about your state? Do these match your holiday faves? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear!

Best Christmas cookie exchange recipes

Get ready to bake up some holiday magic! This list of the best Christmas cookies has it all—from traditional favorites to fresh twists on classic recipes. Perfect for your holiday baking adventures!

You’ll find everything from sugar cookies to gingerbread men, so there’s truly something for everyone. And when it’s time for your cookie exchange, you’ll be more than ready with these 25 standout recipes.

Looking for something outside the cookie jar? Check out the fun Reindeer Bark and Ornament Rice Krispie Treats for a creative spin on holiday sweets!

So grab your favorite ugly sweater, pour a cup of eggnog, and dive into the 25 Best Christmas Cookie Exchange Recipes—it’s time to make the season extra sweet!

1. Thumbprint Snowman Cookies

Winter is here, and it’s the perfect time to get baking! These adorable thumbprint snowman cookies are a fun way to celebrate the season—and they’re as delicious as they are cute.

Kids love them because they get to decorate their own snowmen, and they make a festive addition to any holiday cookie spread. Just leave your best thumbprint, add a little royal icing magic, and you’ve got a treat that’s almost too cute to eat (almost!).

These cookies are so good that they’ll quickly become a holiday tradition. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just baking for fun, these snowman cookies are sure to bring smiles—and disappear fast!

2. Chocolate Cherry Blossom Cookies

Craving a new holiday cookie? Look no further—these chocolate cherry blossom cookies are a must-try this Christmas!

Soft, cherry-flavored sugar cookies topped with a Hershey’s Kiss are festive, easy to make, and absolutely delicious. They’re perfect for your holiday cookie tray or a cozy night in.

Pro tip: Don’t overbake them! Keeping them soft is the secret to their irresistible texture.

Pair these delightful cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa or peppermint tea for the ultimate holiday snack. It’s time to get baking!

3. Chocolate Kiss Powder Puff Cookies

Hosting a holiday party? With so many Christmas cookie recipes out there, it’s hard to pick just one—but here’s one you have to try: powder puff chocolate kiss cookies!

Perfect for a crowd, these irresistibly delicious cookies are a fun twist on classic Russian teacakes. The surprise? A gooey chocolate kiss tucked inside! Even better, you only need three ingredients to make them.

Quick, simple, and guaranteed to impress—these cookies are a hit for any holiday party or cookie exchange. Whip up a batch and watch them disappear!

4. Holiday Confetti Cake Batter Cookies

These holiday confetti cake batter cookies are the ultimate holiday treat—soft, chewy, and bursting with bakery-fresh flavor! With their light buttery taste and colorful sprinkles, they’ll be your new holiday favorite.

Perfect for any holiday gathering, these festive cookies are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Whip up a batch and bring a little extra cheer to your cookie tray this season!

5. Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Chocolate crinkle cookies are a holiday classic—and for good reason! These soft, devil’s food-like cookies are rich with cocoa flavor, dusted in powdered sugar, and irresistibly delicious.

They’re quick and easy to make, but don’t expect them to stick around for long—these cookies disappear fast from any Christmas cookie tray. A must-have for your holiday baking lineup!

6. Melted Snowman Oreo Balls

Looking for the cutest (and most creative) Christmas treat ever? Meet melted snowman Oreo balls! These little desserts are almost too adorable to eat—almost.

Perfect for any cookie swap or holiday party, they’ll be the first treats to disappear. Want to switch things up? Feel free to experiment with different flavors to make them your own. These sweet snowmen are guaranteed to bring smiles and plenty of holiday cheer!

7. Grinch Cookies

These bright green, Grinch-inspired cookies are the perfect mix of festive and fun! Made with cake mix, they’re incredibly easy to whip up and will instantly put everyone in the holiday spirit.

Add them to your Christmas cookie tray this year—they’re sure to be a crowd favorite, especially with the kids! A cheerful treat that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

8. Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups

Just when you thought holiday cookies couldn’t get any better, these adorable hot chocolate cookie cups steal the show! Creative, unique, and absolutely irresistible, they’re guaranteed to impress even the toughest critics.

Made with sugar cookie dough, filled with rich hot chocolate ganache, topped with mini marshmallows, and finished with a pretzel “handle,” these treats look like tiny mugs of hot cocoa. Bring them to a cookie exchange, and everyone will think you’re a baking genius!

Fair warning: these cookies won’t last long once they’re out of the oven—they’re that good!

9. Turtle Thumbprint Cookies

If you love the classic combo of pecans, caramel, and chocolate, these turtle thumbprint cookies will be your new holiday obsession! Filled with gooey caramel and topped with a drizzle of melted chocolate, they’re decadent and oh so delicious.

Perfect for your Christmas cookie tray, these mouth-watering treats are guaranteed to impress. Don’t miss out—this recipe is a must-try for the holiday season!

10. Buttery Shortbread Cookies

There’s nothing quite like the melt-in-your-mouth magic of a buttery shortbread cookie—and this recipe couldn’t be easier! With just three simple ingredients, these cookies are quick to make and absolutely incredible.

Want to give them a festive holiday twist? Add red and green sprinkles, and they’ll be ready to shine at your next Christmas cookie swap. Simple, classic, and always a crowd favorite—these shortbread cookies are a must for any holiday party.

11. German Chocolate Cake Cookies

If you love German chocolate cake, get ready to fall in love with these cookies! These decadent German chocolate cake cookies combine rich, chocolatey cookies with a gooey caramel coconut pecan frosting that’s pure perfection.

It’s like enjoying a bite-sized German chocolate cake—but even better! Perfect for any holiday gathering, these cookies are sure to impress. Want to steal the show at your Christmas cookie exchange? Add these to your must-bake list!

12. Chocolate and Vanilla Pizzelles

If you haven’t tried Pizzelles yet, you’re in for a treat! These delicate, round, Italian waffle-style cookies are light, crisp, and absolutely delicious.

Perfect for a Christmas cookie exchange, Pizzelles are easy to make and bring a touch of Old World charm to your holiday spread. Whether you’re Italian or just love unique cookies, these vanilla and chocolate Pizzelles are a must-try this season!

13. Melted Snowman Cookies

These adorable melted snowman cookies are super fun to make. Perfect for a cookie swap or Christmas party, these chocolatey treats are guaranteed to bring smiles to your guests.

The best part? They’re easy enough for the kids to join in on the fun! Little ones will love decorating their own “melting snowmen.” And don’t forget to save a couple for Santa—these cookies will land you on the nice list!

14. Fudgy Triple Chocolate Cookies

These fudgy triple chocolate cookies are the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers! These ultra-fudgy cookies have perfectly crackly tops and are loaded with three kinds of chocolate for the richest, most indulgent flavor.

Want to take them to the next level? Sprinkle a touch of flaky sea salt over those gooey, melted chocolate pools, and you’ve got a cookie that’s pure perfection. One bite, and you’ll be living the chocolate lover’s dream!

15. Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies

Looking for the perfect Christmas cookie to wow your friends at a cookie exchange? These adorable peanut butter reindeer cookies are guaranteed to be a hit!

Not only are they super festive, but they’re also irresistibly delicious. Kids especially will love these fun, seasonal cookies—both for decorating and eating. Get ready for everyone to be talking about your cookies this holiday season!

16. Brown Sugar Pecan Cookies

The holiday baking isn’t over yet—these brown sugar pecan cookies are a must-try! Soft, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, they’re a cozy twist on Christmas cookie classics.

This recipe is perfect for cookie exchange parties or holiday gatherings. It offers a tasty change from the usual lineup. Give these festive cookies a try, and watch them become a new holiday favorite!

17. Russian Tea Cake Cookies

No Christmas cookie tray is complete without these classic Russian tea cake cookies! Filled with crunchy pecans and rolled in powdered sugar, they’re buttery, sweet, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

These traditional favorites are a must-make every holiday season—simple, timeless, and always a crowd-pleaser. Add them to your baking list and watch them disappear from the cookie platter in no time!

18. Salted Peanut Butter Blossoms

Calling all peanut butter lovers—these salted peanut butter blossoms are about to be your new favorite holiday treat!

A fun twist on a classic Christmas cookie, these soft, salty-sweet delights are packed with peanut butter flavor. Add them to your holiday baking lineup, and watch them become a new party favorite!

19. Gingerbread Cookies

If you’re searching for the perfect classic gingerbread cookie recipe, your search ends here!

These cookies are everything gingerbread should be—soft in the center, crisp on the edges, perfectly spiced, and sweetened with molasses and brown sugar. They’re holiday magic in every bite!

You can’t go wrong with these timeless gingerbread men cookies. Add them to your holiday baking list this year.

20. Candy Cane Sugar Cookies

These candy cane sugar cookies are the ultimate holiday treat! Soft, tender sugar cookies are infused with crushed candy canes for a festive twist and then topped with rich, creamy buttercream frosting.

These delicious cookies are perfect for any holiday party or cookie swap. One bite, and they’ll instantly become a new holiday favorite!

21. Buckeye Brownie Cookies

These chocolate peanut butter cookies are pure holiday heaven—a perfect blend of rich brownies and creamy buckeyes!

It’s no surprise they’ve earned a top spot on our best Christmas cookies list. After all, who can resist the ultimate combo of chocolate and peanut butter? It’s a match made in dessert heaven and guaranteed to bring joy to any holiday celebration!

22. Cinnamon Cream Cheese Cookies

These cinnamon cream cheese cookies are a holiday dream come true! Packed with cinnamon-sugar flavor, they’re like snickerdoodles with the melt-in-your-mouth texture of a meltaway cookie.

Perfectly soft and irresistibly delicious, these cookies are the ultimate treat for any holiday cookie exchange or festive gathering. One bite and everyone will be asking for the recipe!

23. Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Cookies

Red velvet and Christmas go hand in hand, and these red velvet chocolate chip cookies are guaranteed to be a hit!

Soft, rich, and loaded with chocolate chips, these cookies are absolutely delicious. Plus, they’re super easy to make—perfect for cookie exchanges or holiday gatherings. Add these cookies to your holiday baking list and watch them disappear!

24. Kit Kat Cookies

If you’re a fan of Kit Kat bars, get ready to fall in love with these cookies!

Classic chocolate chip cookies get upgraded with chunks of your favorite candy mixed in, making them extra indulgent and downright irresistible. Perfect for holiday cookie exchanges or anytime you need a sweet treat, these Kit Kat cookies will have everyone returning for seconds!

25. Italian Ricotta Cookies

Soft, sweet, and absolutely irresistible, these Italian Ricotta cookies will be everyone’s new favorite treat!

They’re incredibly easy to make and perfect for any holiday gathering. Topped with a smooth almond glaze and a sprinkle of festive toppings, they’re also a Christmas favorite. Add red and green sprinkles for a festive touch.

Cookie baking essentials

And that’s our roundup of the 25 Best Christmas Cookie Exchange Recipes! Which ones will you be baking this holiday season? If you’ve got a go-to recipe that didn’t make the list, we’d love to hear about it—share it with us in the comments below!

See also:

• Easy Reindeer Candy Bark Recipe
• Christmas Ornament Rice Krispie Treats

For more holiday ideas, join the party in our private Facebook community.

 

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