49 Snacks That Make Cold Nights Feel Less Long

Even as winter drags on, 49 snack recipes offer plenty of easy ways to bring warmth to your evenings. Busy schedules or casual nights on the couch feel better when there’s something good to nibble on. Plenty of snacks can be prepped ahead or enjoyed late, no matter what your routine looks like.

Close-up of a cheesy meatball slider with a seasoned bun, showing melted cheese and tomato sauce. Other sliders are visible in the background.
Meatball Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Charcuterie Board

A charcuterie board featuring prosciutto, pickles, green olives, blue cheese, breadsticks, baguette slices, grapes, a jar of honey, and a round cheese topped with a dollop of jam.
Charcuterie Board. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Gathering around this Charcuterie Board always sparks excitement, no matter how cold it gets outside. Sweet, salty, and crunchy bites give everyone something to enjoy. I love filling every corner with fresh and bold options. Plates usually empty fast, making this the highlight of the snack table.
Get the Recipe: Charcuterie Board

Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs with cranberry sauce on a platter.
Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy centers and a sprinkle of spice make these Deviled Eggs a classic standout. Their bite-sized goodness means no one ever stops at just one. I notice everyone reaching for them seconds after they’re set out. By the end of the night, the dish is always clean.
Get the Recipe: Deviled Eggs

Fried Dill Pickle Dip

A close-up of a creamy dip topped with toasted breadcrumbs, chopped pickles, and fresh dill in a white bowl.
Fried Dill Pickle Dip. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Bursting with tang and crunch, this Fried Dill Pickle Dip brings serious snack energy to the table. Each scoop delivers the fun of pickles in a whole new way. I see chip after chip disappear into the bowl. Someone always asks what makes this dip so crave-worthy.
Get the Recipe: Fried Dill Pickle Dip

Brats in a Blanket

Sliced sausage wrapped in golden-brown pastry, sprinkled with sesame and poppy seeds.
Brats in a Blanket. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crispy pastry hugging a juicy brat in this Brats in a Blanket makes even the chilliest evening warmer. The golden crust leads to plenty of second servings for guests. I serve them with dips for extra excitement. Reaching for another is almost guaranteed.
Get the Recipe: Brats in a Blanket

Lebanese Baba Ganoush

Lebanese Baba Ganoush. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Smoky flavor and creamy texture give this Lebanese Baba Ganoush its spot on any snack spread. Pita chips always vanish quickly as folks scoop up more. I enjoy seeing everyone linger near the dip bowl. Conversations get a boost each time someone goes in for another bite.
Get the Recipe: Lebanese Baba Ganoush

Mac and Cheese Balls

Five pieces of crispy, golden-brown fried macaroni and cheese bites are stacked on a white plate, with one bite showing the cheesy pasta inside.
Mac and Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Inside each crispy shell, gooey pasta makes these Mac and Cheese Balls impossible to resist. Every bite feels like comfort in a single snack. I stack them high for easy sharing amongst friends. Trays come back clean much sooner than expected.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese Balls

7 Layer Dip

A clear glass bowl with 7 Layer Dip featuring beans, white cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, lettuce, and black olives.
7 Layer Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Color, crunch, and bold flavor come together in this 7 Layer Dip for one crowd-pleasing centerpiece. Chips pile up, and so do the requests for refills. I’ve found that people always want to know all the layers in this dish. It’s usually scraped clean before halftime.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Dip

Golden Crunchy Onion Rings

A close-up of crispy, golden-brown onion rings sprinkled with chopped parsley and black pepper on a white parchment-lined surface captures perfection in every bite.
Golden Crunchy Onion Rings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Each ring from this Golden Crunchy Onion Rings recipe shatters with a bite, sending warmth through chilly nights. Crunchy outsides and sweet, tender middles win over snack lovers in no time. I serve these fresh for maximum crunch.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crunchy Onion Rings

Bite-Sized Mini Tacos

A plate of beef tacos topped with cheese, tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro, served with avocado sauce and lime wedges. A bowl of cilantro and a jar lid are next to the plate.
Bite-Sized Mini Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Pleasing and flavor-packed shells make these Bite-Sized Mini Tacos just right when big snacks feel too heavy. They’re easy to grab and perfect for a movie night at home. Each one disappears before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Bite-Sized Mini Tacos

Pineapple Cheese Ball

A round cheese ball coated in chopped nuts, garnished with a sprig of rosemary, sits on a wooden board with crackers beside it; a portion is scooped out.
Pineapple Cheese Ball. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sweet fruit and mild cheese blend perfectly in this Pineapple Cheese Ball, giving every cracker a tropical twist. The bright, creamy filling keeps folks guessing and coming back for more. I like rolling it in nuts for some crunch. By the party’s end, hardly a crumb remains.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Cheese Ball

Cheesy Rotel Dip

A skillet filled with creamy cheese dip topped with chopped tomatoes, green onions, cilantro, and sliced jalapeños, surrounded by triangular tortilla chips.
Cheesy Rotel Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Smooth texture and gentle heat from this Cheesy Rotel Dip flip every chip into a special treat. The creamy dip keeps hands busy as the game plays on. I recommend making extra because it goes fast. The bowl is always looking empty before the night is done.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Rotel Dip

Pizza Sliders

A close-up of a fork lifting a cheesy, sesame-topped slider filled with tomato sauce and melted cheese.
Pizza Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Gooey filling and a golden bun make these Pizza Sliders disappear quickly on a cold night in. Toppings tucked inside strike a cozy chord with guests. I often set them out beside a dish of warm marinara. Every tray is empty by the time the first story is told.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Sliders

Antipasto Salad

A bowl of salad with mixed greens, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers.
Antipasto Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bright colors and tangy bites put this Antipasto Salad at the top for winter snacking. Each forkful feels crisp and fresh against the backdrop of rich, cheesy dishes. I tend to serve it in small cups for easy mingling.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Close-up of bacon-wrapped scallops secured with toothpicks, seasoned with spices, and cooked until golden and crispy.
Smoky Bacon Pig Shots. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Every layer in these Smoky Bacon Pig Shots packs a punch, making them a prize for bacon fans. Spicy, sweet, and savory flavors roll up into each round snack. I fill my tray to the edge and watch as they’re gone in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies

A close-up of Bacon Wrapped Sugar Smokies, held together with toothpicks and cooked to a crispy finish.
Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Mouthwatering, bite-sized snacks like these Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies never stick around for long. Salty bacon and a juicy center deliver flavor in just one bite. I place them on a platter with toothpicks for convenient grazing.
Get the Recipe: Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders

Close-up of chicken bacon ranch sliders with grilled chicken, bacon, and melted cheese inside a golden bun, garnished with herbs.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Layers of creamy, smoky, and tangy meet in these Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders, building buzz at any cold-weather gathering. Each one fits perfectly in the palm of your hand. I know to set out extra, as they vanish right away.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Sliders

Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls

A plate of baked crescent rolls filled with slices of ham and melted cheese, topped with black sesame seeds and garnished with parsley.
Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Flaky pastry wrapped around savory ham and gooey cheese gives these Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls universal appeal. They’re suited for breakfast, lunch, or a late-night craving. I pull them apart as soon as they’re cool enough to handle. Every plate is empty before the last tray hits the counter.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls

Mexican Pinwheels

Close-up of several tortilla pinwheel roll-ups filled with shredded chicken, herbs, and sauce, garnished with cilantro.
Mexican Pinwheels. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Swirls of color and punchy flavor make these Mexican Pinwheels a hit at potlucks or game nights. Each bite delivers creaminess and crunch rolled together. I like slicing them thin so they’re easy to grab and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Pinwheels

Coconut Shrimp

A bowl filled with golden-brown, breaded and fried shrimp, garnished with chopped herbs.
Coconut Shrimp. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Crispy, golden coating surrounds each Coconut Shrimp, bringing a touch of sunshine to any chilly occasion. The sweet crunch and dip-friendly shape make them a favorite for all ages. I serve these while still hot for maximal appeal.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Shrimp

Mozzarella Sticks

Someone pulling a mozzarella stick apart and showing the stretchy cheese.
Mozzarella Sticks. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Hot and melty, this Mozzarella Sticks recipe keeps the snack crowd smiling as the cheese stretches with every bite. The crispy coating offers just the right contrast to the soft middle. I pair them with tangy sauce for extra fun.
Get the Recipe: Mozzarella Sticks

Hamburger Sliders

Three sesame seed buns filled with melted cheese and ground beef are arranged on a wooden board.
Hamburger Sliders. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Mini burgers packed with flavor, this Hamburger Sliders recipe finds happy fans every time. Juicy centers and soft buns turn these into snacks you can’t stop eating. I add all sorts of toppings for variety at gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Sliders

Spinach Artichoke Dip

Close-up of a baked spinach and artichoke dip in a dark dish, showing a golden brown, bubbly cheese topping with a portion scooped out, revealing the creamy interior.
Spinach Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy and loaded with veggies, this Spinach Artichoke Dip disappears once it meets a crowd. Warm and cheesy, it pairs well with everything from chips to sliced bread. I always double my batch because it’s that popular. The bowl is scraped clean each time.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Dip

Firecracker Meatballs

A plate of meatballs topped with sauce, sesame seeds, and chopped green onions on a bed of white rice.
Firecracker Meatballs. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A little heat and a lot of excitement describe these Firecracker Meatballs that wake up any snack spread. Each bite carries a gentle kick that tickles the palate. I line them up with toothpicks for easy eating during games. More than half the batch is gone before you realize it.
Get the Recipe: Firecracker Meatballs

Flaky Sausage Pinwheels

Close-up of several baked puff pastry pinwheels filled with minced meat, arranged on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Flaky Sausage Pinwheels. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Puff pastry encasing seasoned sausage gives these Flaky Sausage Pinwheels their delicious swirl. Slices pull apart cleanly for quick eating, whether warm or at room temperature. I find these travel well for sharing with friends. The plate always comes back empty.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Sausage Pinwheels

Pizza Rolls

Freshly made pizza rolls stacked on each other.
Pizza Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A crispy exterior and hot, cheesy middle are what make this Pizza Rolls dish so popular for winter snacks. Pop-up size means everyone grabs more than one. I serve them in small bowls for easy sharing.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Rolls

Flaky Pigs in a Blanket

Pigs in a Blanket, small sausages wrapped in puff pastry, baked until golden brown, and sprinkled with coarse salt are displayed on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Flaky Pigs in a Blanket. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Golden pastry and a juicy center create a timeless favorite with these Flaky Pigs in a Blanket. Bite-sized, they bring out nostalgia as guests munch away. I lay them out with a few classic dips for options.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Pigs in a Blanket

Muhammara with Pita Bread

A bowl of tomato-based dip garnished with chopped parsley and walnuts, with pita bread pieces on the side.
Muhammara with Pita Bread. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Smoky sweetness and nutty undertones set this Muhammara with Pita Bread apart on the dip table. The vibrant red color draws in curious snackers. I like to scoop extra on a plate for dipping with veggies, too.
Get the Recipe: Muhammara with Pita Bread

Buffalo Chicken Nachos

Close-up of loaded Buffalo chicken nachos piled high with shredded chicken, jalapeños, cheese, green onions, hot sauce, and a dollop of sour cream.
Buffalo Chicken Nachos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Layers of heat and gooey cheese make these Buffalo Chicken Nachos memorable at any party. Crunchy chips with spicy, creamy toppings become a favorite in cold weather. I built a mountain of them since everyone comes back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Nachos

Pulled Pork Sliders

A close-up of a pulled chicken sandwich with sesame seed bun, shredded carrots, cabbage, and creamy sauce.
Pulled Pork Sliders. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Tangy meat piled into fluffy buns brings these Pulled Pork Sliders out as the champion of comfort snacks. The sweet and savory layers keep folks munching all night. I serve these with pickles for a little extra bite. Every round ends with empty baskets.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Sliders

Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

A baked pull-apart bread ring with melted cheese and cranberries on a gray plate, garnished with rosemary sprigs.
Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Melty cheese, tart cranberry, and soft bread combine in this Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread for an unforgettable winter snack. Warm pieces pull apart easily, sparking plenty of conversation. I like to let guests grab a chunk right off the board.
Get the Recipe: Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Pita Bread

A stack of six round, golden-brown pita breads sits on a baking tray, with more pita breads visible to the side.
Pita Bread. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Fluffy, warm pockets set this Pita Bread up as the foundation for every dip or filling. Each piece can be split, stuffed, or dunked. I love setting these out alongside sauces and spreads. Soon, all you’ll find on the platter are crumbs.
Get the Recipe: Pita Bread

Copycat Savvy Slider

A hamburger with cheese and lettuce on it.
Copycat Savvy Slider. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Small sandwiches pack surprising flavor with this Copycat Savvy Slider recipe. Each one comes loaded with fillings that balance crunch and creaminess. These sliders never make it back to the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Savvy Slider

Jalapeno Poppers

Baked jalapenos on a plate with dipping sauce.
Jalapeno Poppers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Delicious crisp outside and creamy, spicy inside, these Jalapeno Poppers wake up a gloomy evening. The gooey filling makes each bite stand out. I always plate them with a cooling dip to balance the heat.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeno Poppers

Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Close-up of baked pinwheel appetizers filled with cheese and ham, topped with black pepper and garnished with sliced green onions.
Ham and Cheese Pinwheels. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Layers of flaky pastry and savory fillings give these Ham and Cheese Pinwheels plenty of crowd appeal. Each spiral makes for an easy grab-and-go snack at any get-together. They’re always one of the first items to disappear.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Potato Croquettes

Breaded and fried patties garnished with chopped parsley are arranged on a plate next to a bowl of creamy dipping sauce with herbs.
Potato Croquettes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crispy exteriors lead to creamy, soft centers in these Potato Croquettes. Peppery and golden, they work beautifully with a winter dipping sauce. I find them hard to resist as I pass by the tray. Crunching through each one is a cold night’s comfort.
Get the Recipe: Potato Croquettes

Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders

Close-up of a pulled pork sandwich with pickles and red cabbage on a bun, held in hand, with chips in the background.
Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Juicy pork and sweet rolls turn these Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders into a snack that steals the spotlight. The bright, tangy flavor matches up with the season perfectly. I stack them tall for easy self-serve.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders

Baked Potato Bites

Baked baby potatoes topped with melted cheese, bacon bits, sour cream, and chopped green onions on parchment paper.
Baked Potato Bites. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Little rounds with a crisp edge and fluffy middle let these Baked Potato Bites shine on chilly nights. Each one is topped with something fun and flavorful. I spread them across the table so everyone gets a chance to taste. They get snatched up before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potato Bites

Big Mac Sliders

Two sloppy joe sliders with melted cheese and ground beef filling stacked on a plate, with lettuce and a bowl in the background.
Big Mac Sliders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Beefy patties, tangy sauce, and melty cheese make these Big Mac Sliders a crowd magnet. Stack them high for an impressive snack spread at your next gathering. I see heads turn every time I set them out. The last one never sits for long.
Get the Recipe: Big Mac Sliders

Irish Nachos

A close-up of a skillet filled with cheesy nachos topped with sliced green onions, melted cheese, sour cream, and various seasonings.
Irish Nachos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crispy potatoes form the base of these Irish Nachos, loaded with cheese and plenty of savory toppings. They offer a change from chips and pack in hearty comfort. I scoop big servings straight from the pan.
Get the Recipe: Irish Nachos

Cranberry Jalapeño Dip

A platter of whipped cheese topped with roasted cranberries, chopped herbs, and sliced green onions.
Cranberry Jalapeño Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bright cranberry and a hint of heat create this Cranberry Jalapeño Dip that always sparks conversation. Every bite balances creamy and tangy flavors. I love pairing it with sturdy crackers for easy sharing.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Jalapeño Dip

Antipasto Skewers

A plate of antipasto skewers with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, olives, artichoke hearts, cured meats, and a drizzle of green pesto.
Antipasto Skewers. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Savory bites and briny veggies shine in these Antipasto Skewers, offering an easy grab-and-go option for guests. Variety in every skewer keeps things lively and colorful. I arrange the skewers for a snack that travels well at large parties.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Skewers

Cowboy Sliders

A close-up of sliders filled with cooked ground beef, melted cheese, bacon, and sliced jalapeños on a white surface, with some jalapeño slices scattered nearby.
Cowboy Sliders. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Hearty patties layered with bold toppings power these Cowboy Sliders right into the center of any winter snack table. Every element comes together for a punch of flavor. I hand them out with a pile of napkins for quick bites. It never takes long for the plate to empty.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Sliders

Hot Crab Dip

A spoon lifts a portion of cheesy baked pasta topped with chopped parsley from a casserole dish.
Hot Crab Dip. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Rich, bubbly dip makes this Hot Crab Dip raise expectations for winter appetizers. Each spoonful brings cozy seafood flavor that pairs well with toast or crackers. I set it out hot so the cheese stays melt-in-your-mouth creamy. Return trips to the dip bowl are a sure thing.
Get the Recipe: Hot Crab Dip

Turkey Pinwheels

Turkey Pinwheels. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.
Turkey Pinwheels. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Tidy but pleasing bites filled with savory filling keep these Turkey Pinwheels at the top of the snack list. The rolls hold their shape, even as the party picks up speed. I always chill and slice them for perfect presentation.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Pinwheels

Italian Sliders

Close-up of sesame seed-topped sliders filled with sliced meat and melted cheese.
Italian Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Herby, cheesy layers define these Italian Sliders and make them stand out at any cold night gathering. Bold flavor wins over hungry snackers. I serve them warm to keep everyone reaching back for more.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

A plate of bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers filled with cheese, secured with toothpicks, next to a small dish of dipping sauce.
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A smoky outer layer and creamy filling cause these Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers to vanish before you blink. Each bite hits with spice and comfort at once. I pile them high for self-serve snacking. Plate after plate returns empty.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels

A plate of tortilla pinwheels filled with a creamy mixture, garnished with herbs, served with bowls of salsa and breadcrumbs.
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Spirals of creamy, spicy filling separate these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels from regular snacks. Rolls slice beautifully for passing around at the party. It’s not long before the platter needs a refill.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels

Cowboy Queso Dip

A tortilla chip is dipped into a skillet of cheesy ground beef and tomato dip, with melted cheese stretching between the chip and the dip.
Cowboy Queso Dip. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Warm cheese laced with bold flavors keeps this Cowboy Queso Dip front and center on the winter snack lineup. Chips go fast once the dip’s in the room. I offer sturdy ones for dipping, which is always appreciated. The bottom of the bowl appears quicker than anyone expects.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Queso Dip

Meatball Sliders

Close-up of a cheesy meatball slider with a seasoned bun, showing melted cheese and tomato sauce. Other sliders are visible in the background.
Meatball Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Saucy, meaty bites draw a crowd around these Meatball Sliders, perfect for parties in chilly weather. Cheesy goodness and bold sauce make every slider special. I anchor them with a toothpick for easy enjoyment during conversation.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Sliders

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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