Are you ready to find the most delightful holiday appetizers for your Christmas party? Imagine a gathering where every guest finds something they love. Our collection of 20 Christmas appetizer recipes will make your festive season unforgettable.
These easy holiday appetizers range from classic to new, capturing the Christmas spirit in every bite. They're perfect for any event, big or small, ensuring all guests are happy.
Key Takeaways
Discover a diverse selection of holiday appetizers to cater to all tastes and dietary needs.
Each recipe is designed to capture the holiday spirit, making your Christmas party appetizers the highlight of the event.
Easy holiday appetizers ensure you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the festivities.
Traditional and innovative recipe options guarantee a memorable feast for your guests.
These appetizers are perfect for any holiday gathering, big or small.
Cranberry Brie Bites
Want to wow your guests with little effort? Cranberry Brie Bites are perfect for any holiday party. They mix creamy brie with tangy cranberry sauce in a golden puff pastry.
Ingredients
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
8 oz. brie cheese, cut into small cubes
1/2 cup cranberry sauce
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry into 24 equal squares.
Place each puff pastry square into a mini muffin tin, pressing gently to form a cup.
Add a small cube of brie into each pastry cup, then top with a teaspoon of cranberry sauce.
Brush the edges of the puff pastry with beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs if desired.
These quick Christmas appetizers are perfect for any size gathering. Their bright colors and tasty mix of flavors make them a hit. Cranberry Brie Bites are both beautiful and delicious.
Holiday Caprese Wreath
Make your holiday table pop with the stunning Holiday Caprese Wreath. It turns the classic Caprese salad into a beautiful wreath. It's perfect for any festive event.
This dish combines fresh, vibrant ingredients like ripe cherry tomatoes, aromatic basil, and creamy mozzarella. It's both a decoration and a tasty treat. It's a great choice for your Christmas party appetizers and a hit with everyone.
Ingredients
2 cups ripe cherry tomatoes
1 pound fresh mozzarella balls
1 bunch fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Balsamic glaze (optional)
Instructions
Begin by washing the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves well. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
On a large serving platter, arrange the basil leaves in a circular pattern. This will be the wreath's base.
Layer the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls on top of the basil, keeping the wreath shape.
Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the whole arrangement.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
For a special flavor, drizzle balsamic glaze over the wreath.
Serve right away, letting guests enjoy this festive, tasty holiday starter.
Christmas Tree Veggie Platter
The Christmas Tree Veggie Platter is a delightful addition to your holiday table. It brings a health-conscious touch to the festive season. This platter is not just visually stunning but also ranks among the best holiday finger foods.
Ingredients
Broccoli florets
Cherry tomatoes
Yellow bell peppers, sliced
Red bell peppers, sliced
Baby carrots
Cucumber slices
Cauliflower florets
Mini pretzel sticks (for the tree trunk)
Your choice of dips (ranch, hummus, etc.)
Instructions
Start by arranging the broccoli florets to create the tree's outline. Begin at the base and work your way up to form the conical shape.
Add cherry tomatoes sporadically within the tree outline to resemble ornaments.
Use the sliced yellow and red bell peppers to create garlands draped across the tree.
Place baby carrots and cucumber slices as additional decorations within the tree.
Finish by adding cauliflower florets, integrating them with the other vegetables to fill any gaps.
Form the trunk of the tree with mini pretzel sticks at the base.
Serve with your choice of dips on the side, inviting guests to enjoy one of the easiest holiday appetizers ever presented in such a festive and fun manner.
This Christmas Tree Veggie Platter is not only eye-catching but also packed with healthy, delicious vegetables. Its creative presentation ensures it stands out on your holiday table. This easy holiday appetizer will surely become a beloved tradition for years to come.
Stuffed Mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms are a favorite at holiday gatherings. They offer rich flavors that everyone loves. This dish is a perfect mix of savory and delicious, making it a hit at any party.
Ingredients
20 large button mushrooms, stems removed
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Clean the mushrooms with a damp cloth and remove the stems.
Chop the mushroom stems finely and set aside.
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and chopped mushroom stems, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until they soften.
In a bowl, mix together the sautéed mushroom stems, breadcrumbs, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Fill each mushroom cap with the stuffing mixture, pressing it down lightly.
Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the filling is heated through.
Serve warm and enjoy these delightful holiday appetizers!
These stuffed mushrooms are a hit at any holiday party. They're filled with a delicious mix of flavors. They're perfect for any festive gathering, adding to the joy of the season.
Sausage-Stuffed Puff Pastry
Flaky puff pastry and savory sausage make a perfect pair. This Sausage-Stuffed Puff Pastry is a great choice for your holiday appetizers. It's hearty and satisfying, making it a hit with your guests.
Ingredients
1 lb high-quality sausage (Italian or breakfast style)
1 package frozen puff pastry, thawed
1 egg, beaten
1 tablespoon milk
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, mix the sausage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a floured surface to smooth any creases.
Spread the sausage mixture evenly over the puff pastry.
Roll the pastry tightly into a log, sealing the edges with a bit of beaten egg wash.
Slice the roll into roughly 1-inch pieces and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Brush the tops with the remaining egg wash mixed with milk to ensure a golden-brown finish.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden and the sausage is cooked through.
Allow to cool slightly before serving, ensuring they are warm but not too hot to handle.
These Sausage-Stuffed Puff Pastries are a crowd-pleaser. They're a great example of festive appetizer ideas that will impress. Serve them on a platter, and they'll be gone in no time at your next holiday gathering.
Spinach Artichoke Dip Cups
If you're looking for a crowd-pleaser for your Christmas party, Spinach Artichoke Dip Cups are perfect. They're creamy, savory, and great for any festive gathering.
Ingredients
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 package mini phyllo pastry cups
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Add chopped spinach and artichoke hearts and fold them in.
Fill each mini phyllo cup with the mixture, making sure they're full.
Put the cups on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes. They should be golden and bubbly.
Let them cool for a few minutes before you serve them.
These Spinach Artichoke Dip Cups are not just tasty but also look great on your Christmas party table. Their individual size makes them easy for guests to enjoy. They're sure to be a hit at any holiday event.
Cranberry Meatballs
Indulge in the flavors of the holiday season with Cranberry Meatballs. These savory meatballs are smothered in a tangy cranberry glaze. They're perfect for festive gatherings and easy holiday snacks. This dish is sure to be a hit at your Christmas celebrations.
Ingredients
1 lb ground meat (beef, pork, or turkey)
1 cup cranberry sauce
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, mix together the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the meatballs, cooking until browned on all sides.
Transfer the meatballs to a baking dish.
In a small saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce and barbecue sauce, stirring over medium heat until smooth.
Pour the cranberry glaze over the meatballs in the baking dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
Serve warm, and watch them disappear as everyone enjoys these easy holiday appetizers!
Mini Potato Skins
Mini potato skins are a fun twist on the classic appetizer. They are crispy on the outside and filled with cheese, bacon, and chives. These small treats are perfect for any holiday party.
They make great starters and can be customized with different toppings. This makes them a versatile choice for any festive gathering.
Ingredients
12 small potatoes (such as new potatoes or fingerling potatoes)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it's hot and ready for baking the potatoes.
Prepare the potatoes: Scrub the potatoes clean and prick each one a couple of times with a fork. Rub them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
Bake the potatoes: Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes or until tender. Let them cool slightly.
Halve and scoop out: Cut each potato in half and use a small spoon to scoop out most of the flesh, leaving a thin layer inside each skin.
Add the toppings: Fill each potato skin with a generous amount of shredded cheese and crumbled bacon. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh chives. Serve immediately with a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Pigs in a Blanket
Pigs in a Blanket are a classic comfort food that's easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. They offer a warm, dough-wrapped sausage treat perfect for Christmas. This dish is especially cozy in the cold winter weather.
Ingredients
1 package of mini sausages (such as Lil' Smokies)
1 can of crescent roll dough
1 egg (optional for egg wash)
1 tablespoon of sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Unroll the crescent roll dough and cut each triangle into smaller strips, depending on the size of your mini sausages.
Wrap each mini sausage in a strip of dough, starting at the wide end and rolling towards the pointed end.
Place the wrapped sausages seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
For a golden finish, brush the tops with a beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the dough is golden brown.
Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these as the perfect christmas party appetizers!
These easy holiday appetizers are perfect for any holiday gathering, big or small. They're sure to delight everyone's taste buds.
Shrimp Cocktail Platter
A Shrimp Cocktail Platter is a classic holiday appetizer that adds elegance to any event. It
combines fresh shrimp with a tangy cocktail sauce. It's perfect for both fancy Christmas parties and cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cups water
1 lemon, halved
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon black peppercorns
1/2 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
Boil water, lemon halves, bay leaf, and peppercorns in a large pot. Add the shrimp and poach for 2-3 minutes until they're pink and firm.
Drain the shrimp and put them in a bowl of ice water to stop cooking. This keeps them tender.
After cooling, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Arrange them on a platter.
Mix ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serve the shrimp with the cocktail sauce. Add lemon wedges and fresh herbs for a festive look.
Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites
These Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites are refreshing and flavorful. They mix the smokiness of salmon with the crispness of cucumber. You can easily find the ingredients, like smoked salmon, cream cheese, and dill. This guide shows how to make these tasty bites.
The recipe is simple and elegant. It's perfect for festive appetizers. Plus, it doesn't require cooking, making it a great choice.
Ingredients
1 large cucumber, sliced into thin rounds
8 oz smoked salmon, cut into bite-sized pieces
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Fresh dill sprigs, for garnish
Capers, for garnish
Instructions
In a small bowl, combine the cream cheese, chopped dill, and lemon juice. Mix until well-blended.
Spread a small dollop of the cream cheese mixture onto each cucumber slice.
Place a piece of smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese.
Garnish each bite with a sprig of fresh dill and a couple of capers.
Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Looking for the best holiday finger foods? These Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites are a great choice. They're sophisticated and easy to make. They offer a delightful mix of flavors and a beautiful presentation that will wow your guests.
Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms
Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms are a hit for your Christmas party appetizers. They mix the earthy taste of mushrooms with crab meat's richness. These appetizers are loved by all and easy to make, giving you more time to celebrate.
Ingredients
1 lb fresh mushrooms, stems removed
8 oz lump crab meat
1 cup bread crumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
Spoon the crab mixture into the mushroom caps, filling them generously.
Place the stuffed mushrooms on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden brown.
Serve immediately and enjoy these quick Christmas appetizers.
These crab-stuffed mushrooms add elegance to your appetizer spread. They're a delightful treat at any gathering. Their rich, savory flavor makes them a must-have for your Christmas party appetizers.
Lobster Dip
Lobster Dip is a decadent treat perfect for holiday parties. It mixes lobster meat with creamy cheese and fresh herbs. This makes it a delicious holiday appetizer. Here's how to make this luxurious dip.
Ingredients
8 oz cooked lobster meat, chopped
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic.
Add the chopped lobster meat, fresh lemon juice, chives, and parsley, and mix well.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
This Lobster Dip will be the star of your holiday appetizers. It adds luxury and unforgettable flavor to your holiday starters. Serve it warm with crackers, baguette slices, or fresh veggies for a fancy and loved snack.
Mini Salmon Cakes
Make your holiday party special with Mini Salmon Cakes. They're a fun twist on the classic salmon patty. These small treats have a crispy outside and a soft, tasty inside. Follow our easy steps to make these appetizers a hit at your next event.
Ingredients
1 lb of fresh or canned salmon
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for frying
Instructions
In a big bowl, mix the salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, onion, and dill. Add salt and pepper.
Mix everything until it's well combined. Shape the mix into small patties, about 1 inch in diameter.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the patties in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they're golden and crispy.
Take them out of the skillet and let them drain on paper towels. Serve warm and enjoy these tasty appetizers!
Top your Mini Salmon Cakes with tartar sauce or a squeeze of lemon for a nice touch. These finger foods will be a hit at your gatherings.
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus is a perfect mix of salty prosciutto and earthy asparagus. It's a simple yet elegant dish that's great for Christmas parties. It's easy to make and adds a fancy touch to any event.
Ingredients
1 bunch of fresh asparagus spears
10-15 thinly sliced prosciutto pieces
Olive oil for drizzling
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat up your grill to medium-high.
Trim the tough ends off the asparagus spears.
Take one slice of prosciutto and wrap it around each asparagus spear, starting from the bottom and spiraling to the top.
Place the wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet or grill rack.
Drizzle with a small amount of olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Bake for 10-12 minutes in the oven or grill for about 7-8 minutes until the asparagus is tender and the prosciutto is crispy.
Remove from the oven or grill and let them cool slightly before serving.
These Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus spears are a crowd-pleaser at any party. They're perfect for adding a festive touch to your Christmas appetizers. Serve them hot for the best taste and a bit of elegance.
Fig and Goat Cheese Crostini
Making crowd-pleasing Christmas recipes doesn't have to be hard. Fig and Goat Cheese Crostini is a great example of easy Christmas appetizers that impress. It mixes the sweetness of fresh figs with the tangy creaminess of goat cheese. This delightful treat is sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
1 French baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch pieces
8 fresh figs, sliced
8 oz goat cheese
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp balsamic glaze
Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes until they are golden and crisp.
Spread a generous layer of goat cheese on each toasted baguette slice.
Top each cheese-covered slice with a couple of fig slices.
Drizzle honey and balsamic glaze over the figs for a touch of sweetness.
Garnish with fresh thyme leaves to add color and a hint of aromatic flavor.
Serve immediately, or prepare a few hours in advance and keep them refrigerated until ready to serve.
These Fig and Goat Cheese Crostini are perfect for any festive gathering. They offer a sophisticated mix of sweet and savory. Your guests will love them.
Baked Brie with Pomegranate
Baked Brie with Pomegranate is a delightful mix of creamy Brie cheese and juicy pomegranate seeds. It's a fantastic holiday starter that's both tasty and elegant. The warm, gooey Brie in golden pastry, topped with sweet pomegranate seeds, is irresistible.
Ingredients
This recipe is simple, with just a few ingredients:
1 wheel of Brie cheese
1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
Optional: 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts
Instructions
Making this stunning starter is straightforward. Just follow these steps:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place the Brie wheel in the center of the puff pastry sheet. Fold the pastry over the cheese, ensuring it's well sealed. Use the beaten egg to brush the pastry, which will help it achieve a golden hue when baked.
Bake the wrapped Brie in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crisp.
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before transferring to a serving platter.
Top with pomegranate seeds. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with crushed nuts if desired. Serve warm and watch it disappear!
This Baked Brie with Pomegranate is a standout holiday appetizer. It's impressive and easy to make. The mix of textures and flavors will have your guests wanting more. It's a great choice for your holiday starters.
FAQ
What are the best holiday appetizers to serve at a Christmas party?
Great holiday appetizers for a Christmas party include Cranberry Brie Bites and Holiday Caprese Wreath. Also, Shrimp Cocktail Platter is a hit. They're easy to make, look good, and everyone loves them.
How do I make quick Christmas appetizers that still look festive?
Quick, festive appetizers are Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites and Spinach Artichoke Dip Cups. They're easy to make and add holiday colors to your table.
What are some easy holiday appetizers that everyone will enjoy?
Easy, crowd-pleasing appetizers are Pigs in a Blanket and Cranberry Meatballs. Mini Potato Skins are also a hit. They're simple to make and suit many tastes.
Can you recommend some festive appetizer ideas featuring cheese?
Try Cranberry Brie Bites, Lobster Dip, and Baked Brie with Pomegranate. They mix creamy cheese with other tasty ingredients for a great start to your holiday meal.
What are some crowd-pleasing Christmas recipes that are also easy to make?
Shrimp Cocktail Platter, Stuffed Mushrooms, and Fig and Goat Cheese Crostini are crowd-pleasers. They're impressive yet easy to prepare.
How can I incorporate vegetables into my holiday appetizers?
Make a Christmas Tree Veggie Platter or Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus. These are healthy, festive, and look great on your table.
What are some delicious holiday starters that feature seafood?
Seafood lovers will enjoy Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites, Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms, and Mini Salmon Cakes. They add a luxurious touch to your holiday spread.
Are there any holiday appetizers that can be prepared in advance?
Yes, many can be made ahead, like Holiday Caprese Wreath and Sausage-Stuffed Puff Pastry. This lets you enjoy the party more.
What are some recipes for easy holiday appetizers that kids will love?
Kids will love Mini Potato Skins, Pigs in a Blanket, and Cranberry Meatballs. They're fun, tasty, and easy for kids to enjoy.
How do I make a visually stunning appetizer for my Christmas party?
Try the Holiday Caprese Wreath or Baked Brie with Pomegranate. They're not only delicious but also add a festive touch to your table.
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