Robin Olson hosted her first cookie exchange party in 1989 and the tradition is still going strong. Between decades of planning parties and running the website Cookie-Exchange.com, Robin is an expert on cookie exchanges. Her much-anticipated book, "The Ultimate Guide to Hosting a Cookie Exchange" comes to bookstores October 12, 2010. After reading a preview copy, here is a sneak peek in plenty of time for cookie season.
Like Robin’s website, the book is an all-in-one resource with information on everything from planning the party to baking tips to decorating.
Tried and True Party Tips
The influence of Robin’s beloved mother-in-law, Sylvia Olson, is evident in the book’s recipes and common sense approach to hosting a cookie exchange. Not only does Robin offer detailed tips for hosting a successful party, she also mentions some ideas that do not work very well, such as the free-for-all cookie exchange or baking fresh cookies on the day of the party. Her troubleshooting suggestions cover many of the unfortunate “What should I do?” predicaments faced by cookie exchange party hosts.
Cookie Recipes
The diverse collection of over 170 sweet recipes, which includes Sylvia’s precious cookie recipes, has everything from simple treats to more complex creations. Renowned baking expert Rose Levy Beranbaum also contributes her gingerbread cookie recipe.
While some cookies, such as Peppermint Pinwheels, are decidedly Christmas or winter flavors, the collection also includes recipes suitable for any time of year. Each recipe has simple symbols indicating the difficulty level and type of cookie.
Menu and Party Theme Ideas
The menu and theme ideas offer suggestions for creating a unique party experience. The party themes range from basic, such as Christmas attire and related decorations, to more unconventional options, such as a fab 1950s party or Mad Hatter Tea party.
Beyond Cookie Exchanges
Although this book is likely to become a holiday favorite, it includes general information, such as baking secrets and tips for successfully packing and shipping homemade cookies. Many of the party themes are suitable for various celebrations. There is also a brief chapter on other types of cookie parties, such as teenage cookie swaps, exchanges for other holidays and parties for trading products such as baby gear.
Dallas Shoppers Guide
"The Cookie Party Cookbook" is available for pre-order online with Amazon.com offering the lowest price. Robin is still planning her book tour. Stop by her Facebook page to let her know Dallas hopes to make the list.
More Sweet Links
Pancakes and Syrup Cookie Recipe
Tips for a Successful Cookie Exchange
Homemade Butterscotch Sauce Recipe
Comments
Last year I had a cookie exchange and it was a mess...I wish I had a how-to-guide before so I would know what not to do.
One good thing about it was the recipe exchange. I created recipe books by printing the recipes on unlined, 5x7 index cards. My printer has a separate photo tray and index cards are far less expensive than photo paper.
I added a border, clipart and used holiday fonts to customize the cards. Creating and printing them was quick and easy so I had time to include the recipes I received the day before the party.
I purchased inexpensive photo albums ($1 at Dollar Tree) and inserted the custom recipe cards. Some of the guests took photos of the cookies and later added them to their mini-cookie book.
I won't have another party without this book. I have already ordered it from Amazon.
Thanks for commenting! Pre-order is a great option b/c it shaves one third off the purchase price. Dollar Tree always has a fun selection of seasonal products, but you have to shop early for the best selection.
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