COOKIE EXCHANGE Do-it-yourself fun

Plan: Send out invitations that include the theme (Halloween, a college care package cookie exchange, etc.), cookie quantity, and any additional instructions. Some hosts ask guests to submit a recipe ahead of time, so the recipes can be bound into a little cookbook. Others ask them to bring copies to the party itself.

Gather: Plastic wrap, trays and any take-home containers.

Bake: Julia Usher’s “Cookie Swap” and Rose Levy Beranbaum’s “Christmas Cookies,” are great recipe resources. Or, download recipes and party tips from Epicurious.com or Hershey’s kissescookies.com.

Set up: The day before the party, bake your own cookies, and clear a table for the cookie platters. Set out blank cards so guests can label their contributions. Prepare any beverages or snacks you plan to serve.

Party: Then, welcome your guests, enjoy their company and exchange cookies, so each guest ends up with an assortment of treats to take home.

Source: McClatchy Tribune