The cookie exchange "officially" started in the early 20th century, but they've probably "unofficially" been around for thousands of years. Sometimes called a cookie swap or cookie exchange party, different ladies would hold meetings at different homes to discuss a variety of topics. Foods and sweets were available and everyone would partake in different cookies on different days of the week at the different homes. With cookie exchange parties today, participants bake a batch of their favorite cookie recipe and then bring them to a party where guests trade. You often see church groups, relatives, and work groups hosting and participating in a cookie exchange. And let me tell you...they are so much fun!