Annual observance

National Cookie Exchange Day

December 22 Food / Dessert Updated 2025-12-18

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Overview

National Cookie Exchange Day is a delightful occasion celebrated by baking enthusiasts who gather to share their homemade cookies. It's a day to swap recipes, enjoy a variety of treats, and spread holiday cheer through the delicious art of cookie making and gifting.

Observed each year on December 22, National Cookie Exchange Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: National Cookie Exchange Day on December 22 celebrates the joy of sharing homemade treats, fostering community and creativity among baking enthusiasts. This holiday highlights the spirit of generosity and togetherness during the festive season, as participants exchange not only cookies but also cherished recipes and traditions.

Origin and story

Cookie exchanges often involve participants baking a large batch of one type of cookie to then trade for an assortment of others.

The tradition of cookie exchanges is particularly popular during the holiday season, especially in December.

Quick facts

  • DateDecember 22
  • TypeFood / Dessert
  • Great forFoodies, Chocolate lovers, Home bakers

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Ways to celebrate

National Cookie Exchange Day celebrates the fun tradition of baking, sharing, and swapping cookies with friends, family, or coworkers. A cookie exchange is a great way to enjoy a variety of treats without baking dozens of batches yourself.

Bake cookies for a cookie exchange

Choose a reliable, crowd-pleasing recipe to bring to the swap:

Host or join a cookie exchange

New to cookie exchanges? These guides explain how they work and how to host one smoothly:

Package & share your cookies

Presentation matters! Make your cookies exchange-ready by:

  • Packaging them in festive tins or boxes
  • Including recipe cards with allergens noted
  • Freezing cookies ahead of time for stress-free prep

Did you know?

Cookie exchanges became popular in the mid-20th century as a way to save time while still enjoying a wide variety of homemade holiday cookies.

External links may lead to third-party websites.

Fun facts

  • Cookie exchanges often involve participants baking a large batch of one type of cookie to then trade for an assortment of others.
  • The tradition of cookie exchanges is particularly popular during the holiday season, especially in December.
  • Many cookie exchanges include a recipe card swap, allowing participants to recreate their favorite new cookies.
  • The earliest known cookie swap parties can be traced back to the early 20th century.
  • Some cookie exchanges have rules, such as requiring all cookies to be homemade or specifying a minimum quantity to bake.
  • It's a fantastic way to try a wide variety of cookies without having to bake them all yourself.

Sources and attribution

Source not provided.


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FAQ

When is National Cookie Exchange Day?
It is observed on December 22 each year.
What is National Cookie Exchange Day?
National Cookie Exchange Day is a delightful occasion celebrated by baking enthusiasts who gather to share their homemade cookies. It's a day to swap recipes, enjoy a variety of treats, and spread holiday cheer through the delicious art of cookie making and gifting.
How do people celebrate National Cookie Exchange Day?
Host or join a cookie exchange—bake one recipe, swap with friends, and share recipe cards or allergen notes.

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