41 Christmas Appetizer Recipes That Will Never Fail You

Holiday gatherings come with expectations, and these Christmas appetizers handle the pressure better than most family members. Each idea is simple enough to pull together without stress. They fit crowded tables, picky guests, and last-minute changes. If these snacks had a résumé, “never fail a party” would be the headline.

Close-up of Deviled Eggs topped with a red currant and garnished with fried leeks. Fresh red currants are in the background.
Elegant Salmon Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Savory Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

A plate of golden-brown, cheesy sausage balls stacked on top of each other, with one ball partially broken to show the inside texture.
Savory Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Bite-sized appetizers are ideal for holiday parties where everyone’s snacking and chatting. Savory Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are great for serving a crowd and bursting with flavor. These snacks are easy to grab and enjoy without utensils. Their convenient size makes them perfect for festive gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

Colorful Caprese Skewers

Caprese skewers on a serving dish with balsamic glaze drizzled over.
Colorful Caprese Skewers. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When you’re feeding a crowd, simple yet fun ideas work well. Colorful Caprese Skewers are a beautiful choice and provide a mix of fresh ingredients. They look great on the plate and are easy to grab while chatting with others. A favorite for balance and presentation.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Caprese Skewers

Loaded 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.
Loaded Cowboy Sliders. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Everyone loves a hearty, indulgent appetizer during the holidays. Loaded Cowboy Sliders are packed with crowd-pleasing ingredients that deliver a punch of flavor. The compact serving size makes them tricky to say no to. Don’t be surprised if the plate is empty in no time.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Cowboy Sliders

Classic Party Cheese Ball

A cheese ball on a cutting board with crackers.
Classic Party Cheese Ball. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Some recipes never go out of style for good reason. Take Classic Party Cheese Ball, an option that’s as easy to make as it is to serve. It’s always fun to pair this appetizer with an assortment of crackers and veggies. Once served, it’s an instant hit during gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Classic Party Cheese Ball

Savory Roast Beef Sliders

Close-up of a fork lifting a beef sandwich topped with sesame seeds on a soft bun, with more sandwiches in the background.
Savory Roast Beef Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

These are perfect when you want something hearty and mess-free. Savory Roast Beef Sliders bring rich flavors for a super satisfying bite. Small enough to grab and walk around with but still packed with flavor. Guests can’t help but come back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Savory Roast Beef Sliders

Fresh Caprese Appetizer Bites

Image shows an overhead shot of Caprese Bites on a wooden board.
Fresh Caprese Appetizer Bites. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When you want versatile appetizer options, these are hard to beat. Fresh Caprese Appetizer Bites combine light ingredients that complement each other beautifully. They’re quick to prep and easy for guests to snack on mid-conversation. The presentation is always crowd-pleasing.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Caprese Appetizer Bites

Juicy Cheeseburger Sliders

Close-up of a partially eaten burger with cheese in a bun, showing the meat patty's texture.
Juicy Cheeseburger Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sliders are always a relaxed yet tasty way to kick off a party. Juicy Cheeseburger Sliders give everyone a classic option that’s always loved. These mini burgers pack a lot into each bite and are easy to make ahead of time. Perfect for any holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Juicy Cheeseburger Sliders

Sweet Cranberry Brie Bites

A tray of cranberry brie bites with walnut topping.
Sweet Cranberry Brie Bites. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sweet and savory options tend to bring out the best in holiday gatherings. Sweet Cranberry Brie Bites offer an unbeatable pairing that guests never expect but always enjoy. These little treats are neatly served and perfect for Christmas parties. They’re guaranteed to stand out.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cranberry Brie Bites

Savory 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.
Savory Meatball Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Game nights or festive dinners call for hearty appetizers. Savory Meatball Sliders bring great flavor and are served in perfect portions. They’re the kind of treat people will grab quickly, so make sure there’s plenty to go around. This is another classic slider option everyone loves.
Get the Recipe: Savory Meatball Sliders

Festive Christmas Cheese Trees

Close-up of sliced cheese coated with mixed herbs and chopped nuts on parchment paper, resembling charming Christmas cheese trees.
Festive Christmas Cheese Trees. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Fun holiday themes can often make appetizers stand out. Festive Christmas Cheese Trees are easy to present and sure to grab attention. They’re perfect for serving alongside crackers for a complete snack. It’s a creative option that fits the festive vibe perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Cheese Trees

Spiral Pinwheel Sandwiches

Close-up of several tortilla pinwheel wraps filled with various ingredients including spinach, cream cheese, tomatoes, and other vegetables, arranged neatly on a white surface.
Spiral Pinwheel Sandwiches. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bite-sized and fun options always do well at gatherings. Spiral Pinwheel Sandwiches make for a neat and easy choice for small or large groups. The variety in each bite means there’s something for every guest to enjoy. These are also incredibly versatile with your favorite combos.
Get the Recipe: Spiral Pinwheel Sandwiches

Classic Shrimp Cocktail

Shrimp cocktail with peeled shrimp arranged on the rim of a glass filled with cocktail sauce, garnished with parsley.
Classic Shrimp Cocktail. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

You can’t go wrong with something quick yet elegant for holiday celebrations. Classic Shrimp Cocktail ticks all the boxes and is a go-to for most hosts. A chilled shrimp dish pairs well with drinks and other appetizers. It’s always a reliable crowd favorite that won’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Classic Shrimp Cocktail

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.

You won’t believe how much flavor can fit in a small bite. Smoky Bacon Pig Shots are a hit for any occasion, especially holiday gatherings. They combine great textures and a bold taste to impress your guests. Perfect for serving warm and fresh.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Elegant Crostini Appetizers

Toasted bread topped with smoked salmon, capers, cheese, walnuts, and herbs on a decorative silver tray.
Elegant Crostini Appetizers. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Want something easy but fancy to serve? Elegant Crostini Appetizers make your holiday spread look amazing in minutes. They’re perfect for layering, stacking, and sharing with friends. Make extras because these are always gone fast!
Get the Recipe: Elegant Crostini Appetizers

Beautiful 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.
Beautiful Charcuterie Board. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sometimes you need an appetizer that’s easy to arrange and share. Beautiful Charcuterie Board is perfect for balancing meats, cheeses, and finger snacks. Everyone can grab what they like without any mess. It’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Get the Recipe: Beautiful Charcuterie Board

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.

Here’s a snack that feels perfect for any holiday table. Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread gives you festive vibes in every bite. It’s sweet, savory, and so easy to share. Great for serving at any moment during the party.
Get the Recipe: Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Crispy Mini Hasselback Potatoes

A plate of sliced, roasted baby potatoes is garnished with herbs. A small bowl of creamy sauce is placed in the center.
Crispy Mini Hasselback Potatoes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Here’s a side dish that feels perfect as an appetizer too. Crispy Mini Hasselback Potatoes are bite-sized and simple to serve. They’re crunchy on top and tender inside, making them worth the effort. Guests love how easy they are to eat.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Mini Hasselback Potatoes

Creamy Hummus

A bowl of hummus garnished with whole chickpeas, chopped parsley, paprika, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Creamy Hummus. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you need a dip that everyone can agree on, this one’s always a winner. Creamy Hummus pairs well with chips, veggies, or whatever you have on-hand. It’s excellent for sharing, and you can dress it up however you like. Perfect for casual snacking.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Hummus

Crispy Shrimp Toast

Close-up of open-faced sandwiches topped with avocado, shredded carrot, microgreens, and pieces of cooked salmon on whole-grain bread.
Crispy Shrimp Toast. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Looking for something a little different? Crispy Shrimp Toast brings a unique touch to your spread. They’re crunchy on the outside and packed with flavor in each bite. Be ready to watch people grab seconds, and thirds!
Get the Recipe: Crispy Shrimp Toast

Creamy Beer Cheese Dip

A hand dips a tortilla chip into creamy cheese dip sprinkled with paprika and black pepper.
Creamy Beer Cheese Dip. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

This is one recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation. Creamy Beer Cheese Dip goes perfectly with pretzels, breadsticks, or chips. It’s rich, smooth, and great for dipping on a holiday evening. Serve warm for the best experience.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Beer Cheese Dip

Savory Brats in a Blanket

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

If you’re after something quick and crowd-friendly, you’ll love this. Savory Brats in a Blanket is no-fuss and always a hit for any celebration. They’re easy to eat and even easier to prepare for larger groups. Perfect for casual gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Savory Brats in a Blanket

Savory Turkey Pinwheels

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

Finger foods can be the easiest way to entertain, and this one’s a standout. Savory Turkey Pinwheels are bite-sized snacks that look great on the table. Whether it’s a big event or small gathering, these always go fast. Ideal for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Savory Turkey Pinwheels

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.

A party table isn’t complete without a solid dip. Cheesy Rotel Dip is warm, creamy, and great with chips or veggies. It’s easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy with guests. Keep it simple and watch it disappear quickly.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Rotel Dip

Chicken Pinwheels

Close-up of baked puff pastry pinwheels filled with cheese, herbs, and finely chopped toppings, garnished with sliced green onions.
Chicken Pinwheels. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

These little bites are perfect for any holiday spread. Chicken Pinwheels are a crowd pleaser because they’re easy to eat and packed with all the right textures. They’re ideal for gatherings, making your guests go back for seconds. You can whip them up in no time and they’re always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pinwheels

Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip

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

If you want something unexpected, this dish hits the spot. Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip brings a balance of tartness with just the right kick of heat. It’s a perfect appetizer for scooping with crackers or chips. Make it ahead to save time and let the flavors blend together.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

A bowl of golden-brown, crispy fried arancini served in a white dish on a plain background.
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Here’s a recipe you’ll want to try for your holiday menu. Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites are fried to perfection with just the right amount of spice. Great to set out on the table during festive gatherings, they disappear fast. Their creamy, bold insides make them hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

Creamy Mini Goat Cheese Balls

Goat cheese balls on a wooden cutting board.
Creamy Mini Goat Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Small bites are always a good idea during Christmas. Creamy Mini Goat Cheese Balls are great when you want quick and sharable appetizers. They pair well with crackers and look wonderful on any serving tray. Plus, they’re simple to make but leave a big impression on guests.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mini Goat Cheese Balls

Loaded Italian Sliders

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

You can’t go wrong with handheld snacks at a busy Christmas party. Loaded Italian Sliders are packed with layers that make them hearty enough to keep hunger away. Perfect for kids and adults alike, they mix classic sandwich favorites into mini hits. They’re easy to bake and keep warm for guests.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Italian Sliders

Festive Caprese Candy Cane

A plate with tomatoes, basil and bread on it.
Festive Caprese Candy Cane. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Here’s a great appetizer that doubles as decor. Festive Caprese Candy Cane is shaped perfectly for the holiday season and adds color to your table. Its simple ingredients create a fresh appetizer that’s fun to assemble. It’s so easy to customize or pair with crackers beside it.
Get the Recipe: Festive Caprese Candy Cane

Spicy 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.
Spicy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

You definitely need something bold on your appetizer spread. Spicy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers deliver the heat and that smokiness everyone loves during holiday gatherings. These tiny bites are always a crowd favorite because they’re packed with flavor. They go fast, so be sure to make enough!
Get the Recipe: Spicy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers

Warm and Gooey Baked Brie

A baked brie with walnuts and thyme, with a jar of honey next to it.
Warm and Gooey Baked Brie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cheese lovers will love what you’re serving this Christmas. Warm and Gooey Baked Brie is a classic appetizer for dipping and spreading. It’s perfect when you’re hosting festive gatherings and want everyone to have something comforting. Serve it with fresh bread or crackers to keep things simple but memorable.
Get the Recipe: Warm and Gooey Baked Brie

Fresh Shrimp Ceviche

A close-up of shrimp ceviche with sliced red onions and chopped cilantro, served in a decorative green bowl.
Fresh Shrimp Ceviche. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sometimes you need something light and refreshing among heavier dishes. Fresh Shrimp Ceviche is a great way to bring fresh seafood to your table during the holiday hustle. It pairs beautifully with tortilla chips or veggies. Make this one ahead for convenience and added flavor.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Shrimp Ceviche

Crispy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks

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

Snack-sized comfort food is key for Christmas celebrations. Crispy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks are easy to eat and filled with that stretchy, cheesy goodness everyone enjoys. They’re perfect on their own or dipped in marinara. Keep these warm next to other appetizers to keep people coming for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks

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.

Impress your guests with a bite that’s easy to grab and hard to resist. Flaky Sausage Pinwheels deliver on texture and savory goodness. Their crispy and tender layers make them ideal for a party setting. Great for small bites that pack loads of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Sausage Pinwheels

Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Smashed potatoes on parchment paper, with dollops of sauce and sprigs of dill.
Crispy Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Start your appetizers strong with something crunchy and timeless. Crispy Smashed Potatoes are simple, golden bites everyone can enjoy. With a perfect balance of texture and taste, they complement any Christmas spread. These are easy to pair with dips or toppings.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Close-up of several Bacon Jalapeno Popper Cheese Balls wrapped in bacon, stuffed with cheese, and seasoned with herbs and spices, placed on crumpled parchment paper.
Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Add some crowd-pleasing starters to your appetizer list. Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls are a bold choice with plenty of rich and smoky vibes. They combine creamy textures with just a little heat. Perfect to scoop onto crackers for quick bites.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Loaded Potato Skins

Potato skins with sour cream and sliced scallions.
Loaded Potato Skins. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Give your guests something they’ll want more of instantly. Loaded Potato Skins are hearty bites packed with indulgent layers. These tasty little vessels fit perfectly in the hand and offer filling bites. A must-have for that holiday table spread.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins

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.

Offer appetizers with a kick that inspire smiles all around. Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels are bite-sized bursts of spice and creaminess. They’re easy to pass around and even easier to enjoy. Bring these out for a reliable crowd-favorite.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels

Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread

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

Serve something different that’s packed with bold tones and textures. Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread is a rich dip that pairs beautifully with sliced pieces of soft bread. Perfect for those seeking a flavorful option. It’s a simple but fulfilling addition to holiday spreads.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread

Colorful Antipasto Skewers

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

Keep the party bright and fun with a vibrant option everyone can pick up. Colorful Antipasto Skewers are loaded with hearty ingredients, making them a great fit for the season. They’re easy to grab and packed with bold notes in every bite. Simple to make ahead and always appreciated.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Antipasto Skewers

Elegant Salmon Deviled Eggs

Close-up of Deviled Eggs topped with a red currant and garnished with fried leeks. Fresh red currants are in the background.
Elegant Salmon Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bring some elegance to your appetizer game this year. Elegant Salmon Deviled Eggs combine creamy filling with a hint of festive indulgence. They’re bite-sized, making them convenient for any crowd. These are the kind of appetizers everyone comes back for.
Get the Recipe: Elegant Salmon Deviled Eggs

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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