It's not everyday that you get the opportunity to taste-test a potential new favorite recipe, but that's just the opportunity that's being extended at the Mulberry Creek Community Center.

The center at 4491 JM Turk Road, Flowery Branch is hosting an Active Generation Recipe Swap and Dessert Tasting from 11 a.m. to noon Tuesday. "It is open to anyone ages 55 (and older)," said Roz Schmitt, Mulberry Creek program coordinator.

"All we ask is that they contact the center at least one day prior to let us know they plan to participate."

The event is free and open to non-Hall County residents.

From snickerdoodles to Jello-molds, the sky's the limit when it comes to bringing recipes.

"Participants are asked to bring in their favorite cookie or dessert recipe," Schmitt said.

"They can make their own copies, or we can do that here at the center," Schmitt said.

Recipe swapping has gone on for generations, often with prized recipes kept within the family or hidden altogether.

But with the economy still in a slump, a lot of people are looking for ways to reinvent their favorite foods. And comfort foods are easy, feel-good dishes when times are tough.

Although a great chocolate-chip cookie recipe would be nice, participants are welcome to think outside the box of usual desserts. Fruit, gluten-free and sugar-free recipes would also make nice additions.

With spring just around the corner, a good recipe for garden party classics like tarts, trifles and tea cakes would be right on time.

"We recommend they bring in one complete dessert, whether that be one cake, one batch of cookies, etc.," Schmitt said.

"Hopefully, we will get a wide range of selections to choose from."

The recipe swap is just one of several Active Generation activities that the center offers. There's also Active Generation trips, holiday parties and health fairs.

"It's a good chance for participants to socialize," Schmitt said.

Tips for travel ready, crowd-pleasing desserts:

Allow cookies and bars to cool completely and icing to dry before storing.

Place cookies in a air-tight container, with waxed paper between the layers.

Cover iced cakes with foil for transport. Stick toothpicks in the top before covering to keep the foil from sticking to the icing.

Pre-slice items into small pieces for sharing.