61 Cookie Exchange Ideas for a Sweet Holiday Season

There’s a lot to love about a holiday cookie swap. You bake one batch of your go-to recipe and leave with dozens of different treats from your friends. If you have one coming up and are looking for fresh cookie exchange ideas, finding a recipe that’s both crowd-pleasing and simple to transport can be a challenge.

Instacart helps take the stress out of the preparation by delivering bulk staples — like flour, butter and festive sprinkles — right to your door. You can skip the multiple store trips and get straight to baking. Below, we’ve rounded up our favorite cookie exchange recipes and hosting tips to help you plan a successful exchange.

Crowd-favorite cookie exchange recipes

Some of the best cookies for cookie exchanges are ones that evoke nostalgia. Bringing a few traditional favorites is a great way to please the whole group while providing some familiar balance to a container full of unique treats. These classic recipes are a good place to start.

1. Classic chocolate chip cookies

A well-made chocolate chip cookie is hard to beat. With its buttery edges and chewy center, it has a familiar mix of textures that stands out on any dessert spread. The sight of melty chocolate chunks scattered throughout the dough makes these an instant hit for anyone browsing the selection.

These cookies are also a practical pick because they stack easily in boxes or tins without breaking, and they stay fresh for several days. If you find yourself with extra bags of morsels after your swap, you can experiment with some other classic chocolate chip recipes.

2. Snickerdoodle

Coated in cinnamon sugar and baked until lightly crackled, snickerdoodles bring a flavor that instantly feels like the holidays. Their soft centers and slightly tangy bite from cream of tartar give them a unique twist that sets them apart from other sugar cookies.

On a cookie exchange tray, they add a golden touch among the more colorful treats. Their sturdy texture makes them easy to stack, store, and transport without losing that signature softness. 

3. Peanut butter blossoms

These classic peanut butter cookies crowned with a chocolate kiss are a staple at any cookie exchange. Soft, nutty and just the right amount of sweet, each bite combines creamy peanut butter flavor with the smooth richness of milk chocolate. The glossy chocolate center makes these cookies look as good as they taste.

4. Shortbread cookies 

Shortbread cookies are known for their crisp, crumbly texture and buttery flavor. They’re rich without being overly sweet, which makes them perfect for dipping in chocolate or enjoying plain. Whether cut into neat rectangles or pressed with a patterned stamp, shortbread brings a timeless appeal to your cookie tray.

5. Classic oatmeal raisin cookies

Oatmeal raisin cookies are the kind of cookie that never tries too hard. Rolled oats and brown sugar give them a chewy texture and comforting flavor. Raisins add natural sweetness that balances the heartiness of the dough. They’re simple, sturdy and always enjoyed fresh from the oven or packed up for sharing.

6. White chocolate macadamia nut

White chocolate macadamia nut cookies bring a mix of sweet and buttery flavors with just the right amount of crunch. The macadamia nuts add a rich, nutty texture that pairs perfectly with smooth white chocolate chips.

They’re slightly crisp on the edges and soft in the middle, giving each bite a balance of flavor and texture that feels a little more indulgent than your everyday cookie.

7. Soft molasses cookie

Molasses cookies are an underrated holiday staple that deserves a spot on every swap tray. Dark molasses gives each cookie a slightly bittersweet flavor that’s warmed up by ginger, cinnamon and cloves — a combination that practically smells like the holidays baking.

What sets the soft version apart is the texture. Rather than snapping like a gingersnap, these cookies have a pillowy chew that holds up well over a day or two, meaning they’ll taste just as good when someone gets home and digs into their haul later that night.

8. Peanut butter cookie

Few cookies earn a spot on the tray as reliably as a classic peanut butter cookie. The flavor is rich and nutty, with a salty finish that keeps them from feeling too sweet alongside the rest of the spread. The classic crosshatch pattern pressed into the top gives them an instantly recognizable look, so they’re easy to spot and grab. 

9. Almond biscotti

Biscotti stands out at a cookie exchange for a reason most other entries can't claim: it gets better with time. The twice-baked process gives each piece a dry, crunchy texture that stays crisp for days, making it one of the most practical cookies you can bring to a swap.

Toasted almonds add a subtle nuttiness that pairs well with coffee or tea, making biscotti a natural hit with the crowd that gravitates toward less sugary options. Wrapping a few pieces in parchment and twine also makes for one of the more giftable presentations on the table.

10. Brownie cookie

For anyone who has ever had trouble choosing between brownies and cookies, this one settles the debate. Brownie cookies have the crackly top and fudgy interior of a good brownie, but in a handheld, swap-friendly format that’s easy to portion and pack.

Rich, chocolatey and just dense enough to feel indulgent, they tend to anchor one end of the tray while lighter, more delicate cookies fill in around them.

11. Chocolate mint cookies

Mint and chocolate have a natural affinity that feels especially at home during the holidays. These cookies deliver both in a single bite, with a chewy chocolate base and a cool mint finish that makes them taste a little lighter than their ingredient list suggests.

They’re also one of the more visually distinct options on a swap tray. Whether they’re topped with a mint candy, swirled with green, or finished with a dusting of crushed candy cane, there’s usually something about them that catches the eye before anyone even takes a bite.

12. Nutella cookies

Nutella cookies have a chocolate-hazelnut flavor that’s a little richer and more unexpected than a standard chocolate cookie. The nut spread gets worked directly into the dough, giving each cookie a soft, fudgy texture. They come together with minimal ingredients, so they’re a great pick for bakers who want something that looks impressive without the effort.

13. Snowball cookies

Rolled in powdered sugar while still warm, snowball cookies are as much about texture as they are about flavor. The exterior is soft and dusty, while the inside is dense and buttery with a subtle nuttiness from finely chopped pecans or walnuts.

They're a natural fit for a winter swap, thanks to their powdered-sugar coating, which gives them a look that lives up to the name. Just pack them carefully, as that snowy exterior tends to shake loose in transit.

14. Banana oatmeal cookies

Banana oatmeal cookies are a welcome change of pace on a swap tray full of chocolate and butter-forward flavors. Ripe bananas add natural sweetness to the dough, making these cookies softer and moister than a standard oatmeal cookie, without any extra effort.

They’re also a good option for bakers working with what’s already in the kitchen. If you have overripe bananas sitting on the counter, this recipe puts them to use in a way that’s a little more interesting than the usual banana bread.

15. Lemon cookies

Citrus doesn’t always get enough credit in the cookie world. The flavor can range from subtle to sharp, depending on how much zest is added to the dough, but either way, it offers something different from what surrounds it on the tray. If you’re a fan of baking with seasonal fruit, lemon is a reliable starting point.

A dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze on top keeps them looking polished without much extra work, and their light flavor makes them one of the easier cookies to reach for after already sampling a few heavier ones.

16. Chocolate chip s’mores cookies

S’mores cookies take everything that works about the campfire classic and pack it into something you can bring to a party. Chocolate chips, graham cracker pieces and toasted marshmallow combine in a cookie that’s gooey, crunchy and rich all at once.

These are best enjoyed the day they’re baked, when the marshmallow is still soft. Packing them in a single layer rather than stacking helps keep them intact on the way to the swap.

17. Cinnamon apple cookies

Warm spices and fresh fruit don’t make it onto the cookie tray nearly as often as they should. Cinnamon apple cookies change that with a soft, cake-like texture and a flavor that leans more cozy than sweet. Chunks of apple keep the dough moist and add a subtle tartness that balances out the cinnamon.

International cookie recipes

A cookie exchange is an opportunity to step outside the classics and try something new. From matcha to tahini to miso, globally inspired ingredients are driving some of the most exciting food trends in home baking right now. The recipes in this section are a good way to add some variety to the tray and spark a conversation or two at the swap.

18. Mexican wedding cookies

Despite the name, these cookies are welcome at any gathering. They’re made with finely ground nuts folded into a buttery, crumbly dough, which is rolled in powdered sugar twice: once warm and once after cooling. They’re delicate enough to feel special but simple enough for experienced bakers to make in large batches without much fuss.

19. Green tea matcha cookies

Matcha has made its way into everything from lattes to desserts, and for good reason. In cookie form, it adds an earthy, slightly bitter depth that balances well against white chocolate chips or powdered sugar.

The color is part of the appeal, too. That distinctive green stands out immediately on a tray of brown and golden cookies, making them one of the more eye-catching options at any swap, with no extra decorating effort.

20. Italian ricotta cookies

Ricotta isn’t an ingredient most people associate with cookies, which is exactly what makes these worth trying. The cheese works into the dough, creating a texture somewhere between a soft sugar cookie and a small cake. A lemon glaze and a few sprinkles on top give them a festive look that requires minimal decorating skill. 

21. Chocolate chip tahini cookies

Tahini adds a nutty, slightly savory quality to cookie dough that’s hard to put your finger on but easy to appreciate. It works particularly well with chocolate chips, where the bittersweet notes of the chocolate round out the earthiness of the sesame. They’re also a practical alternative to peanut butter or macadamia nut cookies for those who avoid peanuts or tree nuts.

22. Dulce de Leche Alfajores

Alfajores are a South American staple that translates surprisingly well to a cookie swap format. Two delicate, crumbly shortbread-style cookies are sandwiched around a thick layer of dulce de leche, creating a rich texture combination. They do require a bit more assembly than a drop cookie, but the result looks and tastes like it came from a bakery.

23. Danish recipe for butter cookies

Few cookies have achieved the kind of universal recognition that Danish butter cookies have. The iconic blue tin has been a fixture in homes for generations, but the homemade version takes everything familiar about them and makes it even better. Piped into rosettes or rings, they also have a polished, bakery-style appearance that holds up well on a tray.

24. Earl Grey shortbread cookies

Brewed tea isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when building a cookie tray, but Earl Grey works remarkably well in shortbread. The bergamot adds a subtle, floral, citrusy note that’s not overwhelming but distinct enough to make these cookies genuinely interesting to anyone who takes a bite. They also pair naturally with a cup of black tea on the side.

25. Chai tea cookies

Chai-spiced desserts have earned their place beyond the coffee shop menu. In cookie form, the blend of cardamom, ginger, cinnamon and black pepper creates a warm, aromatic flavor. They’re also a natural follow-up for anyone who gravitated toward the Earl Grey shortbread. 

26. Ube cookies

Ube has become one of the more exciting ingredients to find its way into American bakeries and home kitchens in recent years. The Filipino purple yam has a mild, subtly sweet flavor that falls somewhere between vanilla and pistachio.

The color is the first thing anyone notices. That deep violet holds up beautifully through baking and makes ube cookies one of the most visually striking contributions you can bring to a swap.

27. Miso chocolate chip cookies

Miso paste works into cookie dough in a way that’s hard to describe until you taste it. Its savory, umami depth amplifies the sweetness of the chocolate chips, giving each bite a balanced flavor that keeps people coming back for more. They look like a classic chocolate chip cookie on the outside, making them an easy sell for anyone hesitant to try something new at the swap.

28. French madeleine cookies

Madeleines occupy an interesting middle ground between cookie and cake, with a light, spongy crumb and a delicate buttery flavor. A hint of lemon zest in the batter keeps them from feeling too rich. They’re best eaten the day they're made, so a swap is actually the perfect setting for them.

Dietary-friendly cookies

A thoughtful cookie swap includes something for everyone. Offering at least one or two options that accommodate common dietary restrictions is one of the best cookie swap ideas for making sure no guest leaves empty-handed. The recipes below prove that dietary-friendly doesn’t have to mean flavor-optional.

29. Gluten-free sugar cookie

A good gluten-free sugar cookie is indistinguishable from the original to most people at the table. The base swaps traditional flour for an alternative blend, but the result is still soft, slightly crisp at the edges and just sweet enough to decorate with icing or sprinkles.

Bringing a clearly labeled gluten-free option to a swap is a small gesture that makes a big difference for guests who don’t always have something they can eat at these kinds of events.

30. Gluten-free peanut butter cookies

Peanut butter cookies are naturally well-suited to a gluten-free adaptation since the rich, nutty flavor holds up without needing much structural support from flour. Most versions come together with just a handful of ingredients and no specialty blends required. The result is a cookie that’s dense, chewy and satisfying enough that most people at the swap won’t think twice about the substitution.

31. Vegan white chocolate cherry cookies

White chocolate and cherry are a reliable pairing, and this vegan version delivers on both without compromise. Olive oil replaces dairy-based fats in the dough, keeping the texture soft while the dried cherries and white chocolate chips do the heavy lifting on flavor. It’s a solid starting point for anyone looking to explore vegan recipes.

32. Almond butter and coconut sugar-free cookies

This sugar-free dessert skips the refined sugar and flour without feeling like it’s missing anything. Almond butter keeps the dough moist, while coconut sugar adds a mild caramel-like sweetness that complements the base's natural nuttiness. The flavor profile leans toward an energy ball rather than a traditional cookie, making them a natural fit alongside more indulgent options. 

33. Almond flour chocolate chip cookies

Almond flour gives these cookies a slightly denser, chewier texture than the classic version, with a subtle nuttiness that works well with the chocolate chips. They’re a more familiar entry point for gluten-free guests than some of the other options in this section. The chocolate chips keep them grounded in territory that anyone at the swap will recognize.

34. Oatmeal raisin cookie without butter

Removing butter from an oatmeal-raisin cookie shouldn’t change much, but the oats and raisins carry enough flavor and moisture that most people won’t notice the difference. Applesauce adds moisture, and agave nectar brings the sweetness. The result is a lighter cookie that still has the chewy texture and warm spice that make the original worth making.

35. Protein cookie dough

This protein cookie dough packs a protein boost, turning a nostalgic treat into something you can feel good about. It’s made with a scoop of protein powder, oats and nut butter for a soft texture that’s rich and satisfying. You can enjoy it by the spoonful, bake it into chewy cookies or roll it into bite-sized snacks for a quick pick-me-up.

36. Dairy-free chocolate chip cookies

These dairy-free chocolate chip cookies use coconut oil instead of butter and dairy-free chocolate chips for the same gooey texture and rich flavor you’d expect from the original. The coconut oil adds a hint of sweetness that pairs perfectly with dark chocolate. They bake up golden and soft in the center, making them a great option for anyone skipping dairy but still craving a fresh batch of homemade cookies.

37. Chewy almond cookies

Made with almond flour and a touch of almond extract, these cookies have a chewy texture and a nutty flavor that stands out without any added fuss. The eggs help bind the dough while unrefined cane sugar adds sweetness and a smooth finish. They come out soft in the middle with lightly crisp edges and a gentle almond flavor that keeps you reaching for another.

Festive holiday cookie ideas

If you’re looking for holiday cookie ideas to share at Christmas parties, Hanukkah celebrations or cozy winter get-togethers, this section has you covered. From spiced classics to decorative showstoppers, these recipes are made for entertaining and adding something sweet to the season. 

38. Holiday sugar cookies

Holiday sugar cookies are all about creativity. The dough rolls out smoothly for easy cutting and decorating, holding its shape no matter which festive cookie cutters you use. A glaze or colorful frosting adds just the right amount of sweetness. They’re fun to make with kids or to decorate ahead of a party, and they always look great packaged up as gifts or set out on a cookie tray.

39. Gingerbread cookies

Made with dark molasses and a blend of ginger, cinnamon and cloves, these cookies have a spiced flavor that’s hard to mistake for anything else. The dough is sturdy enough for rolling and cutting, yet bakes into cookies that stay soft for days. They’re perfect for decorating with icing or giving as homemade gifts — the kind of cookie that feels just as traditional as it does homemade.

40. Grinch cookies

Bright green dough and tiny red heart sprinkles make these cookies instantly recognizable and fun to bake. The buttery sugar-cookie base is flavored with vanilla extract, giving it a soft texture and classic taste beneath the bold color. They’re a great choice for kids’ cookie swaps or movie nights when How the Grinch Stole Christmas is on repeat.

41. Christmas cutout cookies

These cutout cookies are a go-to for anyone looking for Christmas cookie exchange ideas. The dough rolls out easily for clean shapes, from trees and stars to snowflakes, and bakes into soft cookies that hold up well for decorating. Top them with icing, sprinkles or colored sugar for a personalized touch that makes every batch look festive and homemade.

42. Peppermint bark

Peppermint bark layers smooth dark and white chocolate with crushed candy canes for crunch and holiday flair. It’s easy to make ahead and break into uneven pieces for a giftable treat. Rich, minty and festive, this candy stands out on cookie platters and pairs nicely with hot cocoa or coffee.

43. Cinnamon raisin rugelach

Cinnamon raisin rugelach are flaky pastries filled with raisins, brown sugar and warming spices. The cream cheese dough gives them a slight tang and soft texture that contrasts nicely with the cinnamon-sugar filling. They’re a classic for Hanukkah, but fit right in at any winter gathering.

44. Hanukkah gelt cookies

Inspired by the tradition of giving chocolate coins during Hanukkah, these cookies turn gelt into a playful centerpiece. The dough is soft and buttery, baked just long enough to form gentle thumbprint wells for each piece of chocolate. As the gelt softens slightly, it creates a glossy top that looks as good as it tastes. They’re a great way to bring a bit of tradition to any cookie plate or December celebration.

45. Eggnog cookies

Soft and spiced with nutmeg, these eggnog cookies capture the flavor of the classic holiday drink in bite-sized form. The dough includes real eggnog for moisture and richness, while a light glaze adds sweetness without overpowering the warm spice. They’re cozy and pair naturally with a cup of coffee or, of course, a glass of eggnog.

46. Hot chocolate cookies

These cookies take everything you love about a mug of hot chocolate and bake it into dessert form. Cocoa powder gives the dough its deep chocolate color, while mini marshmallows melt into gooey pockets on top. These are a fun pick for winter parties or snow days at home.

47. Christmas M&M cookies

These classic chocolate chip cookies get a festive twist with red and green M&Ms mixed into the dough. They bake up soft in the center with crisp edges and plenty of colorful crunch in each bite. Perfect for gifting, cookie swaps or serving alongside other Christmas party foods, these cookies bring a bright, playful pop to any holiday spread.

48. Red velvet crinkle cookies

Red velvet crinkle cookies have a rich cocoa flavor and a red color that makes them stand out. Before baking, the dough is rolled in powdered sugar, which creates the classic crackled look as they spread. They’re soft and slightly cakey with a hint of vanilla, making them a cozy addition to your winter dessert lineup.

49. Raspberry thumbprint cookies

Raspberry thumbprint cookies start with a simple butter cookie dough that’s rolled into balls and pressed in the center before baking. The wells are filled with raspberry jam, which thickens slightly in the oven and gives each cookie a chewy, fruity center.

A light dusting of powdered sugar after baking adds a classic finish. These are easy to make ahead, and the jam can be swapped for any favorite flavor, from apricot to strawberry.

50. Christmas monster cookies

Christmas monster cookies pack just about everything into one dough — oats, peanut butter, chocolate chips and red and green candy pieces. The result is thick, chewy and full of texture and flavor in every bite. They’re easy to customize with whatever mix-ins you have on hand, and they travel well for swaps or gift boxes.

Easy and no-bake cookie ideas

If you’re short on time or want cookies without turning on the oven, these recipes make it simple. From quick refrigerator treats to creamy fudge-style bites, each option comes together with minimal prep and maximum flavor.

51. No-bake peanut butter cookies

These no-bake cookies mix peanut butter, oats and honey for the perfect balance of sweet and chewy. The peanut butter and sugar are heated briefly with a pinch of salt, then stirred into the oats to form a dough that sets as it cools.

They’re quick to make, naturally gluten-free and a great base for experimenting with mix-ins like chopped nuts or a drizzle of melted chocolate.

52. No-bake cookies with cocoa and oats

Butter, sugar, milk and cocoa powder give these no-bake cookies their rich, chocolatey flavor. The mixture is combined with peanut butter, oats and vanilla to form thick spoonfuls that set as they cool. For extra flavor, try adding toppings right after shaping the cookies, like a pinch of cinnamon, a few chocolate chips or bits of dried fruit.

53. 3-ingredient sugar cookie

With just butter, sugar and flour, these cookies prove that simple ingredients can deliver great results. The dough comes together quickly and bakes into soft, golden rounds with a crumbly texture. Sprinkle with coarse sugar before baking, dip in melted chocolate after cooling or sandwich two with frosting for something more indulgent.

54. 3-ingredient peanut butter cookie

These classic peanut butter cookies use just sugar, peanut butter and one egg. There’s no flour involved, which gives them a naturally chewy texture and deep peanut flavor. Press the tops with a fork before baking for the familiar crisscross pattern, then enjoy warm or cooled.

55. Cookies from brownie mix

Turning brownie mix into cookies is as easy as adding flour, oil and eggs for structure, plus a handful of chocolate chips for texture. The dough bakes into dense, fudgy rounds with a rich chocolate taste and a soft, brownie-like center. It’s the perfect shortcut when you want fresh cookies fast, without having to start from scratch.

56. 4-ingredient Cool Whip cookies

These soft, cake-like cookies start with a box of chocolate cake mix and a tub of Cool Whip. The whipped topping gives the dough a light, airy texture, while powdered sugar on the outside creates a delicate coating as they bake. They come together in minutes and are a fun, fuss-free option for chocolate lovers.

57. Icebox cookies

Icebox cookies are an easy choice because the dough is mixed once, shaped into a log and chilled until you’re ready to slice and bake. That make-ahead step gives you fresh cookies with very little hands-on time.  

They’re also easy to customize with vanilla, chocolate, citrus zest, nuts or sprinkles, so the same basic dough can produce a lot of different results. The slice-and-bake format makes them especially convenient for prepping ahead or baking a few at a time.

58. No-bake chocolate oatmeal cookies

These cookies come together on the stovetop with chocolate, oats and a few pantry staples, then set without ever touching the oven. That makes them a low-effort option when you want something homemade without much cleanup. Because they firm up as they cool, they’re especially handy for make-ahead treats.

59. Butterscotch haystacks

These no-bake clusters are a quick stir-together treat made with butterscotch chips, peanut butter, peanuts and chow mein noodles. They set up fast and give you a crunchy, salty-sweet bite with almost no effort.

You can also swap the butterscotch for semisweet or white chocolate chips, and the peanuts for another nut if you want to change the flavor profile. That flexibility makes them a handy, easy cookie option that feels a little different from the rest of the section.

60. 3-ingredient brown sugar cookies

These cookies come together with just butter, brown sugar and flour. The dough mixes quickly and bakes into cookies with a warm, caramel-like flavor. They’re also easy to dress up if you want a little extra flair. Try dipping them in melted chocolate, adding frosting or finishing them with sprinkles for a more festive look.

61. No-bake oat cookies 

These cookies are made on the stovetop with butter, sugar, milk, cocoa powder, peanut butter, vanilla and oats, then left to set without baking.  The finished cookies are chewy and chocolatey with a hearty oat texture. They’re a reliable last-minute option when you want a homemade treat with minimal fuss.

Tips for hosting and attending a cookie swap

Cookie swaps work best when everyone knows how many cookies to bring and how the exchange will run. These cookie exchange party ideas can help the event run smoothly, whether you’re hosting or bringing a batch to share.

• Plan the cookie count carefully. A good rule of thumb is to have each guest bring 5-6 dozen cookies if 10 people are attending, so everyone can leave with a full sampler and there are a few extra cookies for tasting at the party.

• Use a shared sign-up system. A group chat or shared document helps prevent duplicate cookie varieties and keeps the mix more interesting.

• Label allergens clearly. Ingredient cards should call out nuts, dairy and gluten so guests can choose safely and confidently.

• Set up a packing station. Parchment paper, ribbons, tins and boxes help guests package their cookies neatly and protect them on the way home.

• Bring a container for your haul. Attending guests should come prepared with a sturdy box or tin so they can transport cookies without crushing them

• Make room for drinks. If you’re hosting, don’t forget to include party drinks. Keep beverages easy to serve and park them away from the cookie tables so guests have space to mingle and browse.

Cookie exchanges FAQ

Still have questions about joining in on a cookie exchange? Check out the helpful answers below. 

How many cookies do I need to bring to a cookie exchange?

A good rule of thumb is to bring one dozen cookies per guest attending the swap. So if 10 people are participating, plan on baking 10 dozen total. That way, everyone goes home with a full assortment, and there are enough extras to sample during the event.

How do I keep my cookies fresh until the event?

Most cookies stay fresh for three to five days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Keep different varieties separate to prevent flavors and textures from mingling, and hold off on adding any powdered sugar coatings or glazes until the day of the event.

Is it okay to bring store-bought cookies to a swap?

Most cookie exchanges center on homemade baking, so it’s worth checking with the host before showing up with store-bought cookies. That said, life gets busy, and a good-quality bakery cookie is always better than not participating at all. If you do go that route, transferring them to a nice tin or box goes a long way.

Can I freeze my cookie exchange cookies?

Freezing is one of the best ways to get ahead of a cookie swap without sacrificing quality. Most cookies freeze well for up to three months in an airtight container, and can be thawed at room temperature a few hours before the event. Avoid freezing cookies with delicate toppings, such as powdered sugar coatings or fresh glazes, as these toppings don’t always hold up well during freezing.

Shop your cookie exchange essentials on Instacart

With so many cookie exchange ideas to choose from, the hardest part is narrowing it down to one recipe. Once you’ve made your pick, stocking up on ingredients is the easy part. From bulk flour and butter to specialty items like almond flour, tahini or matcha, you can order everything through Instacart and have it delivered to your door in as fast as 1 hour, where available. Instacart+ members get $0 delivery fees on eligible orders, so you can skip the store and get straight to baking.