I've been on a molasses kick lately. Which is great since cookie baking season is officially upon us. Ever hosted a cookie exchange? Here's your guide to planning and hosting a fun get-together that streamlines your baking this holiday season. For those unfamiliar with this long-time holiday tradition, a cookie-exchange has each guest make several dozen of just one kind of cookie, then invitees can sample and swap equal amounts of cookies with other guests. #winwin

Be sure to offer a few weeks' notice to guests since there is prep-work involved for them to attend. In your invitation, be sure to ask each person not only for an RSVP, but also have them let you know what they plan to bring so there aren't duplicates: that's no fun. The amount is up to you, but generally speaking, 5 dozen is a good number. Advise guests of the quantity they'll need to bring and ask them to have printed copies of their recipe available.

Once the big day arrives, have platters and baskets set out for guests to display their cookies. Also provide "name cards" for each cookie being offered. List the name of the baker and the name of the cookie. It's also a good idea to note any common allergens, like nuts, on the name cards. Place copies of the recipe for each nearby the corresponding plate.

Plenty of plastic bags, or aluminum foil, are a must so that swapped cookies can be repacked for travel. When asked for cookie travel tips, Diana Anzorena, owner and cookie artist of Pretty Sweet Confections by Di says, "When I prepare my cookies. . . I wait until the icing it completely dry (about 24 hours). I wrap them individually in cellophane bags and twist tie them. Then I choose a box or tin where they will fit without a lot of room to move around". This is great advice if you are giving cookies as a gift. Pretty Sweet Confections by Di is on Facebook under that name & her custom cookies are un-rivaled, gorgeous creations. Go to her page for inspiration!

Offer coffee, milk (obviously, right, since we're talking about cookies?) and something festive like mulled cider or cocoa for your gathering. Definitely consider an additional small and SAVORY snack (think cheese or veggie plate) to cut through all that sugar.

Each guest goes home with the same number of cookies they came with but will have an assortment to gift or enjoy. Best of all, you've made time to spend a fun few hours together.

Here are my three favorite cookie recipes to jump-start your planning: