How to Host a Soup Swap Party (Like a Cookie Swap, But Cozier!)

How to Host a Soup Swap Party (Like a Cookie Swap, But Cozier!)

Posted by Nicola Prybell on Nov 26th 2025

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Move over, cookie swaps — there’s a new cozy tradition in town! If you’ve never heard of a Soup Swap Party, imagine an evening where everyone brings a batch of homemade soup, shares samples, and goes home with a delicious collection to enjoy all week.

It’s budget-friendly, perfect for winter, and way more filling than cookies. Plus, it’s the ultimate comfort-food hangout—like a potluck, freezer meal prep, and girls’ night rolled into one!

What Is a Soup Swap Party?

A soup swap is a casual gathering where each guest brings:

  • A batch of homemade soup (easy to do with our soup mixes!)

  • Enough filled containers to trade with others

  • A recipe card so everyone can recreate it at home

During the party, guests:

  1. Sample each soup

  2. Swap containers

  3. Leave with a mix of ready-to-eat meals

Why Soup Swaps Are Becoming a Thing

  • Cozy way to hang out during cold months

  • Saves money on takeout and groceries

  • Meal prep without doing all the work

  • Great for families, neighbors, book clubs, or office teams

How to Host a Soup Swap Party (Step by Step)

1) Pick a Cozy Theme (Optional but Fun!)

Themes make soups feel more curated and create photo-worthy moments.

Try:

2) Decide on Portion Size

Ask guests to bring at least 4–6 individually packaged servings (or however many guests are planning to attend), ideally frozen or chilled and ready to swap.

Use quart-sized deli containers or mason jars.

Pro tip: Remind guests to cool soups before packing to avoid steam damage or bacteria growth.

3) Include a Recipe Card With Every Batch

Guests should include:

  • Name of the soup

  • Ingredients (highlight allergens)

  • Freezing/reheating tips

  • Optional toppings

Provide printable cards or ask guests to write their own.

Hosting tip: Put cards on display next to sample cups!

4) Set Up a Mini Tasting Station

Offer small cups so everyone can sample before swapping. Add topping options like:

  • Shredded cheese

  • Herbs (cilantro, rosemary, green onion)

  • Croutons or oyster crackers

  • Sour cream or yogurt

  • Hot sauce bar 

5) Swap Time!

Let guests take turns selecting soups, draft-style, or make 1-for-1 trades.

6) Offer a Cozy Beverage or Dessert

You don’t need a full host-made meal — just something sippable or sweet.

Cute, easy ideas:

  • Mulled cider

  • Wine or mocktails

  • Hot cocoa bar

  • Tiny dessert bites (brownie squares, mini ginger cookies)

Labeling & Freezing Tips for a Successful Swap

Ask everyone to label with:

  • Soup name

  • Date made

  • Ingredients

  • Freezer instructions

And encourage freezer-safe, leakproof containers.

Many soups freeze beautifully, especially:

  • Chili

  • Vegetable soups

  • Bean soups

  • Chicken noodle (add noodles later for best texture)

  • Stews and chowders (dairy added after reheating)

Optional Favors or Takeaway Gifts

Not required, but adorable if you want to go above and beyond:

  • Mini wooden spoons tied with ribbon

  • Fancy crackers

  • Cute printable labels

  • Soup bowl + napkin bundle