15 Easy Cookie Exchange Recipes You’ll Love

Planning a cookie exchange? It’s pure joy and a fantastic way to celebrate! More than just swapping sweets, a cookie exchange is a celebration of homemade goodness, creativity, and holiday cheer (or any fun gathering!). If you’re thinking about hosting one, or simply need some easy cookie exchange recipes to bring to your next party, you’ve absolutely come to the right place. We know you need recipes that are both easy to whip up and guaranteed to be the stars of the swap.

In this collection, we’re thrilled to share 15 of our absolute favorite, totally irresistible cookie recipes that are perfect for any cookie exchange and sure to please every palate. We’ve made sure to include a wonderful variety, from those timeless, always-a-hit classics like perfectly soft chocolate chip cookies and melt-in-your-mouth shortbread, to some more unique and exciting options. Imagine warm spiced chai cookies and those festive peppermint fudge delights that everyone always raves about – we promise, there’s a cookie here for every single person at your exchange! Because we know you want baking to be fun and stress-free, these recipes are all designed to be beginner-friendly. You don’t need to be a pro baker, but you will deliver big on flavor and that perfect cookie texture everyone loves.

These cookies aren’t just incredibly delicious; they’re genuinely made for sharing and swapping at your cookie exchange! Perfect for gifting, bringing to your party, or even just enjoying a little homemade treat at home. And to make your baking experience even smoother, we’re also including our best, tried-and-true tips for successfully baking in big batches, keeping your cookies wonderfully fresh and delicious for the exchange, and even adding those extra little decorative touches to really make your treats stand out from the crowd. So, grab your favorite mixing bowls, gather your friends, and let’s get baking together to create the most memorable cookie exchange ever!

Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Cookies

These Hot Cocoa Marshmallow Cookies are like a warm hug in cookie form! They blend the rich flavors of chocolatey goodness with the delightful texture of fluffy marshmallows, making them a perfect treat for any cookie exchange. Simple to make, they are a delightful addition to your collection of easy make-ahead cookies, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

With a taste reminiscent of a cozy cup of hot cocoa, these cookies are sure to be a hit at your next festive holiday cookie swap. They’re fun to make and look beautiful on any cookie platter. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a delicious result!

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• Extra mini marshmallows for topping
• Chocolate syrup for drizzle

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in the chocolate chips and mini marshmallows.
6. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set. Remove from the oven and immediately top each cookie with a few extra mini marshmallows.
8. Drizzle with chocolate syrup while the cookies are still warm. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Strawberry Shortcake Crinkle Cookies

Strawberry Shortcake Crinkle Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic treat, combining the flavors of fresh strawberries with a soft, chewy texture. The sweet, fruity taste paired with the light powdery finish makes these cookies a crowd-pleaser at any cookie exchange or holiday gathering. Plus, they are simple enough to whip up in no time, making them a great addition to your baking repertoire.

These cookies not only taste amazing but also look stunning with their crinkled tops, giving them a unique appearance that stands out on any platter. If you’re looking for unique cookie flavors for swaps or fun holiday baking ideas, these Strawberry Shortcake Crinkle Cookies are the perfect choice!

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup crushed strawberries
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in the crushed strawberries.
4. Using a tablespoon, scoop the dough and roll it into balls. Coat each ball in powdered sugar before placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are crinkled. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Maple Bacon Oatmeal Cookies

Maple Bacon Oatmeal Cookies combine sweet and savory in a delightful way. The rich flavor of maple syrup harmonizes with crispy bacon, while hearty oats add a comforting texture. Perfect for those who love unique cookie flavors, these cookies are simple to whip up and guaranteed to impress your friends and family.

These cookies make a fantastic addition to any holiday cookie box. They’re not only delicious but also fun holiday baking ideas for your cookie swap. So, grab your apron and get ready to make a treat that stands out!

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• 1/2 cup maple syrup

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix this into the creamed mixture until well combined.
4. Fold in the crumbled bacon and maple syrup gently until evenly distributed.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Churro Snickerdoodles

Churro Snickerdoodles combine the best of two worlds: the soft, chewy texture of a classic snickerdoodle and the warm cinnamon-sugar flavor of churros. These cookies are a delightful treat that’s perfect for a cookie exchange or a cozy night in with a glass of milk. With simple ingredients and easy steps, even novice bakers can whip these up in no time.

You’ll love how the crispy exterior gives way to a soft center, making each bite a sweet surprise. The cinnamon sugar coating adds that extra crunch, making them irresistible. These unique cookie flavors are sure to be a hit at any festive holiday cookie swap. Let’s get baking!

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until well combined.
4. In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon and sugar for coating. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture before placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Lemonade Glazed Sugar Cookies

Lemonade glazed sugar cookies are a delightful treat that brings a burst of citrus flavor to any cookie exchange. These cookies are soft, buttery, and topped with a sweet lemonade glaze that gives them a refreshing taste. They are perfect for sharing and simple to make, making them a fantastic addition to your holiday baking lineup.

With their bright yellow glaze, these cookies not only taste great but also look charming on any dessert table. Whether you’re planning a festive cookie swap or just looking for fun holiday baking ideas, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike. Get ready to bake a batch of these delicious lemonade glazed sugar cookies!

Ingredients

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon extract (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. In another large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon zest.
2. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
3. Shape and Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. Make the Glaze: In a bowl, whisk powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon extract (if using) until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more lemon juice or powdered sugar if needed.
5. Glaze the Cookies: Once the cookies have cooled, spread or drizzle the lemonade glaze over each cookie. Allow the glaze to set before serving.

S’Mores Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies

S’Mores Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies are the perfect blend of two beloved treats. They combine the gooeyness of s’mores with the rich, buttery flavor of chocolate chip cookies. Each bite offers a delightful crunch from the graham crackers, melty chocolate, and soft marshmallow that brings a cozy campfire vibe right to your kitchen.

This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to make, making it a great choice for holiday gatherings or cookie exchanges. Whether you’re looking for festive cookie swap ideas or just want to impress your friends with unique cookie flavors for swaps, these cookies will surely be a hit!

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups chocolate chips
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1 cup crushed graham crackers

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips and crushed graham crackers.
4. To assemble, scoop a tablespoon of dough, flatten it in your hand, and place a few mini marshmallows in the center. Encase the marshmallows with more dough, rolling it into a ball.
5. Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Let them cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Caramel Pretzel Crunch Cookies

Caramel Pretzel Crunch Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly balance sweet and salty flavors. These cookies are soft and chewy with little bursts of caramel and the satisfying crunch of pretzels, making them a hit at any cookie exchange. Plus, they are simple to whip up, so even novice bakers can impress friends and family.

The combination of caramel drizzled on top and the salty pretzel pieces creates a unique flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more. They’re not just great for holiday gatherings; these cookies are versatile enough for any occasion, making them one of the best cookie exchange recipes to share.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup crushed pretzels
• 1 cup caramel bits
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
4. Fold in the crushed pretzels and caramel bits until evenly distributed.
5. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Once cooled, drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.

Birthday Cake Confetti Cookies

Birthday Cake Confetti Cookies are a delightful treat that brings the joy of a birthday celebration to any occasion. These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with colorful sprinkles, making them not only tasty but also visually appealing. The combination of buttery flavor and sweet icing truly mimics the experience of devouring a slice of birthday cake, making them an instant hit at any cookie exchange.

They’re perfect for those looking for easy make-ahead cookies that can be whipped up in no time. Whether you’re preparing for a festive holiday cookie swap or simply want to indulge in a sweet treat, these cookies offer unique cookie flavors for swaps that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup rainbow sprinkles
• 1/2 cup frosting (vanilla or cream cheese)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set it aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and eggs, mixing well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until combined. Fold in the rainbow sprinkles gently.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
7. Once cooled, spread a dollop of frosting on each cookie and add a few extra sprinkles on top for decoration.

Honey Lavender Shortbread Cookies

Honey Lavender Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that blends the sweetness of honey with the floral notes of lavender. These cookies are incredibly easy to make and perfect for a cookie exchange or just to enjoy at home. Their buttery texture and unique flavor make them stand out among the usual cookie options.

If you’re looking for fun holiday baking ideas or unique cookie flavors for swaps, these cookies are a must-try. They are not only delicious but also simple to prepare, allowing you to whip up a batch in no time. Perfect for gifting or sharing at festive gatherings!

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the honey, vanilla extract, and culinary lavender. Mix well to combine.
4. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture. Stir until the dough forms.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut into desired shapes or squares.
6. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow the cookies to cool completely, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Peanut Butter & Jelly Thumbprints

Peanut Butter & Jelly Thumbprints are a delightful twist on the classic cookie. They combine the rich taste of peanut butter with a sweet jelly filling, creating a treat that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. These cookies are simple to make and are perfect for any cookie exchange or holiday gathering.

The soft, chewy texture pairs perfectly with the fruity jam, making them a favorite among both kids and adults. Not only are they one of the best cookies for gifting, but they also make for easy make-ahead cookies that can be enjoyed throughout the week. They’re a festive addition to any holiday cookie box, bringing a touch of creativity to your cookie swap!

Ingredients

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup of your favorite jelly (strawberry or grape work well)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until smooth.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract, stirring until well combined.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the peanut butter mixture, stirring until combined.
5. Using a tablespoon, scoop out the dough and roll it into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Make an indentation in the center of each cookie using your thumb and fill it with about 1 teaspoon of jelly.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cinnamon Roll Swirl Cookies

Cinnamon Roll Swirl Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls into a cookie form. These cookies are soft and chewy, with a sweet cinnamon filling and a rich icing drizzled on top. They’re perfect for any cookie exchange or holiday gathering, bringing a taste of nostalgia to every bite.

Making these cookies is straightforward and fun, making them one of the best cookie exchange recipes. They’re sure to impress your friends and family with their unique flavor and appearance. If you’re looking for a simple holiday cookie recipe that stands out, these Cinnamon Roll Swirl Cookies are a must-try!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
• 2 tablespoons milk (for icing)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt together. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until well combined.
5. In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon and brown sugar.
6. Spread the cookie dough onto the parchment paper, creating a rectangle shape. Sprinkle the cinnamon mixture evenly on top.
7. Roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice into 1/2-inch thick cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. While the cookies cool, prepare the icing by mixing powdered sugar with milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cookies.

Cherry Almond Biscotti Bites

Cherry almond biscotti bites are a delightful twist on the classic Italian treat. With a perfect balance of sweet cherries and nutty almond flavor, these crunchy cookies are not only delicious but also simple to make. They’re ideal for any cookie exchange, offering a unique flavor profile that stands out among traditional cookie options.

These biscotti bites pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, making them perfect for sharing at gatherings. Plus, they have a lovely texture that makes them easy to dip and enjoy. If you’re looking for easy Christmas cookie exchange recipes or want to impress friends with creative cookie exchange treats, cherry almond biscotti bites are a must-try!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream together butter, eggs, and almond extract until smooth.
3. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until well combined. Fold in chopped cherries and sliced almonds.
4. Shape the dough into a log about 12 inches long and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten slightly.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden. Let it cool for 10 minutes, then slice into 1-inch pieces.
6. Arrange the slices cut-side down on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until crisp. Allow to cool completely and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Matcha White Chocolate Chip Cookies

Matcha white chocolate chip cookies are a delightful twist on the classic cookie, blending the earthy flavor of matcha with the sweetness of white chocolate. These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with unique flavors that make them stand out at any cookie exchange. Not only are they beautiful with their vibrant green hue, but they’re also super simple to whip up, making them an excellent choice for fun cookie swap ideas.

The combination of matcha and white chocolate creates a lovely balance of flavor that coffee or tea lovers will appreciate. They’re perfect for festive holiday cookie swaps or as homemade cookie exchange treats to impress your friends. Plus, they’re a great option for those looking for unique cookie flavors for swaps. Now, let’s get baking!

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons matcha powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup white chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, matcha powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the white chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Pumpkin Spice Toffee Cookies

Get ready for a cozy treat that perfectly blends the flavors of fall! These Pumpkin Spice Toffee Cookies are soft, chewy, and have just the right amount of spice to make your taste buds dance. The addition of toffee bits gives a delightful crunch that complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully. Plus, they’re super simple to whip up, making them one of the best homemade cookies for sharing during the holiday season.

If you’re looking for unique cookie flavors for swaps or easy make-ahead cookies, this recipe is a must-try! Perfect for cookie exchanges or just to enjoy at home with a warm drink, these cookies are a great way to celebrate the season. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup toffee bits

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
4. Fold in the toffee bits gently to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
6. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cotton Candy Meringue Cookies

Cotton Candy Meringue Cookies are a delightful treat that brings a touch of whimsy and nostalgia to any cookie exchange. With their light and airy texture, these cookies melt in your mouth, leaving a sweet, sugary taste reminiscent of fun fairs and childhood memories. They’re not only visually appealing with their pastel colors but also surprisingly easy to make, making them a perfect addition to holiday cookie boxes.

Ideal for those looking to impress at a cookie swap, these meringues can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the festivities stress-free. Whether you’re mixing up unique flavors or simply keeping them classic, these cookies stand out and are sure to be a hit among homemade cookie exchange treats.

Ingredients

• 4 large egg whites
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cotton candy flavoring
• Food coloring (pink and blue)
• Sprinkles (for decoration, optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy. Add the cream of tartar and continue to beat until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form and the mixture is glossy.
4. Gently fold in the vanilla and cotton candy flavoring.
5. Divide the meringue into two bowls. Add a few drops of pink food coloring to one bowl and blue to the other. Swirl the colors gently without fully mixing.
6. Using a piping bag, pipe the meringue into swirls on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meringues are dry to the touch and can easily lift off the parchment paper.
8. Let them cool completely before decorating with sprinkles if desired. Store in an airtight container until ready to serve.

Discover Local Bakeries with Unique Cookie Creations

If you’re looking to add something special to your cookie exchange, why not explore what your local bakeries have to offer? Check out our dessert directory to find small businesses near you that craft unique and delicious cookies. Supporting local shops not only brings fresh flavors to your event but also helps your community thrive.

Sweeten Your Style with Our Churro-Inspired Apparel

Love cookies and churros? Show off your foodie pride with our churro-themed apparel. From fun churro shirts to cozy sweatshirts, our original designs add a playful touch to any outfit. Perfect for baking days, cookie exchanges, or just enjoying your favorite treats in style!

Share Your Best Cookie Recipes with Us

Do you have a cookie recipe that always steals the show at exchanges? We’d love to hear from you! Submit your recipe to join our community of dessert lovers and inspire others with your baking creations.

These 15 easy cookie exchange recipes are all about bringing joy and flavor to your holiday celebrations. Bake up a batch, share the love, and make your next cookie swap the sweetest one yet!