Get ready to host the most delicious holiday celebration with these festive and flavorful Christmas appetizers! From cheesy dips to sweet and savory bites, these recipes are designed to impress your guests and make your holiday entertaining a breeze.
Whether you're planning a cozy gathering or a grand festive feast, you'll find the perfect starters to kick off your celebration with a bang..
Table of Contents
Cheesy Baked Ricotta Dip
This warm, savory baked ricotta dip is a cheesy delight packed with fresh herbs and a hint of lemon.
It's incredibly easy to make and perfect for any occasion, from game day to holiday parties.
Serve it with your favorite crackers, toasted baguette slices, or roasted vegetables for a crowd-pleasing appetizer..
Pro Tip: Enhance the flavor further by adding toppings like red pepper flakes, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Baked Ricotta Dip
Brown Sugar Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies
These addictive little bites feature smoked sausages wrapped in crispy bacon and coated in a sticky brown sugar glaze.
With just three ingredients, they're incredibly easy to prepare and are a guaranteed hit at any party.
The sweet and savory combination is irresistible!.
Pro Tip: For the best flavor, let the bacon-wrapped smokies marinate in the brown sugar for 1-2 hours before baking.
Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Bacon-Wrapped Little Smokies
Smoked Salmon Appetizer Bites
Elegant and delicious, these smoked salmon appetizer bites with dill sour cream are perfect finger food for any holiday gathering.
The combination of smoky salmon, creamy dill sauce, and a crisp base (like baguette slices) creates a sophisticated and flavorful bite that guests will adore..
Pro Tip: Assemble these appetizers 2-3 hours in advance and keep them covered in a cool, dry place until serving to prevent sogginess.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Appetizer Bites
Cranberry Brie Tartlets
These delightful tartlets combine the creamy richness of brie with the sweet and tart flavor of cranberry sauce, all nestled in a crisp, pre-baked pastry shell.
With just four ingredients and minimal prep time, they're a fuss-free and festive option for holiday entertaining..
Pro Tip: The pie shells can be made ahead of time and stored at room temperature for up to three days.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Brie Tartlets
Bacon-Wrapped Scallops with Glaze
Indulge in these succulent sea scallops, wrapped in savory bacon and coated in a sweet and savory glaze.
Broiled to perfection, these bites offer a decadent combination of flavors and textures that are perfect as an appetizer or a main course..
Pro Tip: Reheat leftovers gently in a pan over medium heat for 3-4 minutes to ensure the bacon stays crispy.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Scallops with Glaze
Reindeer Cheese Ball Bites
Add a touch of festive fun to your appetizer spread with these adorable reindeer cheese ball bites! These mini cheese balls are packed with flavor from cream cheese, cheddar, and bacon, then decorated with a tomato nose and pretzel antlers for a truly charming presentation..
Pro Tip: Chill the formed cheese balls for another 30 minutes after rolling in bacon to help them hold their shape.
Get the Recipe: Reindeer Cheese Ball Bites
Buffalo Chicken Dip
This creamy, cheesy, and spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip is a guaranteed party favorite, tasting just like buffalo chicken wings without the mess.
Baked until golden and bubbly, it's perfect for scooping with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies..
Pro Tip: Freezing this dip is not recommended, as the texture can become chalky upon reheating.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Dip
Fancy Pigs in a Blanket
Elevate the classic pigs in a blanket with this fancy version! Miniature sausages are wrapped in flaky crescent dough and enhanced with dijon mustard and sharp cheddar cheese, then topped with everything seasoning for an extra pop of flavor and texture..
Pro Tip: A sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning adds a lovely crunchy texture and extra flavor to these bites.
Get the Recipe: Fancy Pigs in a Blanket
Cranberry Brie Bites
These sweet and savory cranberry brie bites are the perfect handheld appetizer.
Creamy brie and tart cranberry sauce are baked in mini phyllo shells and garnished with fresh rosemary for a festive touch that's ready in just 15 minutes..
Pro Tip: If you don't want to remove the brie rind, it's edible and becomes soft when baked.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Brie Bites
Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Bread
Brighten your holiday table with this adorable and savory Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Bread.
Filled with melted cheese and garlic butter, this festive bread is a fun and delicious way to enjoy a savory treat that the whole family will love..
Pro Tip: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper makes lifting and serving the tree much easier and aids in cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Bread
Bacon Wrapped Pickles with Cream Cheese
Irresistibly flavorful and surprisingly easy, these bacon-wrapped pickles stuffed with cream cheese are a gluten-free and keto-friendly appetizer that will wow any crowd.
The combination of crispy bacon, tangy pickles, and creamy cheese is a flavor explosion in every bite..
Pro Tip: For a quicker preparation, consider using fully cooked bacon pieces.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Pickles with Cream Cheese
Caprese Tortellini Skewers
These no-bake Caprese Tortellini Skewers are a delightful finger food, combining cheese tortellini, fresh tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil leaves, all drizzled with a sweet balsamic glaze.
They're easy to make ahead and perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of Italian flavor..
Pro Tip: Allow the tortellini, tomatoes, and mozzarella to marinate in the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper mixture for at least 15 minutes for enhanced flavor.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Tortellini Skewers
Baked Cranberry Brie
This impressive Baked Cranberry Brie appetizer is ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute entertaining.
A wheel of brie is topped with a sweet cranberry mixture and baked until warm and gooey, creating a decadent dip best served with crackers..
Pro Tip: To make ahead, prepare the cranberry sauce mixture and cut the rind off the brie, but assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture.
Get the Recipe: Baked Cranberry Brie
Whole Wheat Pretzel Wreath with Mustard Sauce
This festive whole wheat pretzel wreath is a savory and satisfying appetizer, made with pantry staples and served with a sweet herb mustard dipping sauce.
It's a plant-based option that's perfect for sharing at holiday potlucks or gatherings..
Pro Tip: Consider using all whole wheat flour for a heartier pretzel or experiment with gluten-free flour mixes for a different texture.
Get the Recipe: Whole Wheat Pretzel Wreath with Mustard Sauce
Whipped Ricotta Crostini
These elegant crostini feature a base of toasted bread topped with incredibly creamy whipped ricotta, brightened with lemon zest and a touch of salt.
They offer a light yet satisfying bite, perfect as a starter or a light snack..
Pro Tip: Whipped ricotta can be made 2-3 days in advance and stored in a piping bag for easy assembly.
Get the Recipe: Whipped Ricotta Crostini
Christmas Deviled Eggs
These festive deviled eggs are a delightful holiday appetizer, boasting vibrant Christmas colors and a rich, herby filling.
Made with simple ingredients like mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and fresh herbs, they offer a perfect balance of creamy texture and bright flavor.
Decorate them with rosemary and red bell pepper for a touch of holiday charm that's sure to disappear quickly from any party table..
Pro Tip: For perfectly smooth filling, use a food processor or hand mixer. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Deviled Eggs
Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie
Indulge in the warm, gooey delight of baked brie, elevated with festive cranberry and pecan flavors.
This appetizer features a wheel of brie cheese, baked until molten and spreadable, then topped with a sweet and nutty mixture of butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
It’s an ooey-gooey, cheesy sensation that’s perfect for sharing..
Pro Tip: To re-soften baked brie if it has cooled, gently warm it in the microwave for a few seconds.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie
Grinch Christmas Charcuterie Board
Bring Whoville cheer to your holiday table with this whimsical Grinch-themed charcuterie board.
It's a vibrant display of festive foods arranged in a charming Christmas tree shape.
With a mix of meats, cheeses, fruits, and veggies, this board is as delightful to look at as it is to eat, making it a show-stopping centerpiece for any holiday gathering..
Pro Tip: To create a cohesive look, use cookie cutters to shape cheeses and arrange ingredients strategically to form the tree.
Get the Recipe: Grinch Christmas Charcuterie Board
Sausage Roll Wreath
This festive sausage roll wreath is a show-stopping appetizer perfect for Christmas parties.
Juicy sausage meat, flavored with cranberries and pecans, is encased in flaky puff pastry and shaped into a beautiful wreath.
It’s incredibly easy to prepare and offers a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors with a satisfyingly crisp texture..
Pro Tip: Serve this wreath with your favorite relish, sauce, or chutney for an extra burst of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Roll Wreath
Herb Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers
These vibrant mini stuffed peppers are a delightful and simple appetizer.
Sweet mini peppers are halved and filled with a creamy, herbaceous mixture of cream cheese, onions, garlic, and fresh herbs.
Baked until tender and slightly golden, they offer a burst of fresh flavor and a delightful texture contrast..
Pro Tip: Don't worry about making the filling perfectly smooth; a rustic, homemade look is part of their charm.
Get the Recipe: Herb Cream Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers
Pineapple Cheese Ball
A delightful retro appetizer, this pineapple cheese ball is a sweet and salty sensation.
The creamy cheese mixture, blended with crushed pineapple, raisins, and dates, is rolled in chopped pecans for a delightful nutty coating.
It’s a classic party favorite that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser..
Pro Tip: For a smoother texture, lightly process the pecans in a food processor before rolling the cheese ball to coat.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Cheese Ball
Twisted Pesto Pull-Apart Star Bread
This impressive pesto pull-apart star bread is a savory showstopper that's surprisingly easy to make.
Using store-bought puff pastry, layers are spread with pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and green onions, then cut and twisted to form a star shape.
It’s a fun, interactive appetizer that’s packed with Mediterranean flavors and perfect for sharing..
Pro Tip: For extra crunch and flavor, sprinkle chopped almonds over the pesto before assembling the star bread.
Get the Recipe: Twisted Pesto Pull-Apart Star Bread
Roast Beef & Cheddar Sliders
These hot and melty roast beef and cheddar sliders are a flavor explosion in every bite.
Tender deli beef, sharp cheddar, and sweet caramelized onions are piled onto soft Hawaiian rolls, then basted with a savory butter-dijon sauce.
Baked until golden and gooey, they’re the ultimate handheld appetizer or mini meal..
Pro Tip: These sliders can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving, making them a great make-ahead appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Roast Beef & Cheddar Sliders
Mini Mushroom Pies with Thyme
These charming mini mushroom pies are packed with earthy flavor and delicate herbs.
A savory mushroom filling, seasoned with garlic and thyme and enriched with red wine and butter, is encased in flaky pie dough.
Baked until golden brown, they are perfect bite-sized appetizers for any occasion..
Pro Tip: Chill or freeze the assembled mini pies before baking to help them hold their shape and achieve a crispier crust.
Get the Recipe: Mini Mushroom Pies with Thyme
Baked Feta with Vegetables
Experience the creamy, savory magic of baked feta, a sensational appetizer that’s both simple and impressive.
A block of feta cheese is baked until tender and softened, surrounded by cherry tomatoes, olives, garlic, and peppers, all swimming in a citrusy, herby olive oil.
It’s a Mediterranean delight that’s perfect for dipping crusty bread or pita chips..
Pro Tip: Use a high-quality block feta for the best creamy texture. Serve immediately as it can harden if left to sit.
Get the Recipe: Baked Feta with Vegetables
Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board
Spread holiday cheer with this adorable Christmas tree-shaped charcuterie board.
It’s a festive and fun way to present a variety of meats, cheeses, fruits, and nuts.
This visually stunning appetizer is easy to customize and creates a dazzling centerpiece that’s sure to impress guests of all ages..
Pro Tip: Store individual ingredients separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days if prepping ahead.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board
Layered BLT Dip
Enjoy all the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich in this creamy, layered dip.
This appetizer features a rich base of cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream, topped with crispy bacon, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and green onions.
It’s a crowd-pleasing, low-carb option perfect for parties and gatherings..
Pro Tip: Add the lettuce, tomato, and bacon toppings just before serving to keep them fresh and crisp.
Get the Recipe: Layered BLT Dip
Hedgehog Cheeseball
Add an adorable touch to your appetizer spread with this charming hedgehog cheeseball.
Crafted from a creamy bacon cheddar ranch mixture, it's coated in slivered almonds to resemble a spiky hedgehog.
This naturally gluten-free appetizer is a fun, flavorful, and visually appealing centerpiece for any holiday buffet..
Pro Tip: To achieve the best spiky look, insert the slivered almonds starting from the tapered end and work in offset rows.
Get the Recipe: Hedgehog Cheeseball
Easy Crab Cakes
These incredibly easy crab cakes are ready in just half an hour, proving that delicious seafood appetizers don't have to be complicated.
Packed with sweet lump crab meat and seasoned to perfection, they're pan-fried to a golden crisp and served with a quick mustard aioli.
They’re a delightful taste of the coast for any occasion..
Pro Tip: If your crab cake mixture seems crumbly, add another tablespoon or two of mayonnaise to help bind it together.
Get the Recipe: Easy Crab Cakes
Christmas Tree Sandwiches
These adorable mini Christmas tree sandwiches are a festive and fun finger food perfect for kids and adults alike.
Using cookie cutters, slices of bread are shaped into Christmas trees and filled with simple ingredients like ham and cheese.
They’re quick to assemble and can be made ahead for easy holiday entertaining..
Pro Tip: Use thinly sliced bread for best results, ensuring the cutter can easily create clean tree shapes.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Tree Sandwiches
Fabulous Antipasto Platter
This impressive antipasto platter is a true showstopper, featuring a delightful array of Italian meats, cheeses, marinated vegetables, and crusty bread.
It’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite flavors, and is surprisingly easy to assemble, making it perfect for any holiday gathering..
Pro Tip: Assemble the platter up to 8 hours in advance, omitting the bread, and bring to room temperature about 20 minutes before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
Get the Recipe: Fabulous Antipasto Platter
Bruschetta with Mozzarella
Bright, fresh, and bursting with flavor, this bruschetta features a vibrant mix of chopped tomatoes and basil served over perfectly toasted bread.
The addition of creamy mozzarella elevates this classic appetizer, creating a delightful bite that's both refreshing and satisfying..
Pro Tip: To prevent a watery topping, allow excess liquid to drain from the tomatoes before mixing, or add the salt and vinegar shortly before serving.
Get the Recipe: Bruschetta with Mozzarella
Snowman Charcuterie Brie Board
Get ready for a truly whimsical holiday appetizer! This Snowman Charcuterie Brie Board is a festive and edible work of art, featuring creamy brie cheese shaped into a snowman and surrounded by a delightful assortment of meats, cheeses, fruits, and crackers.
It’s a charming and delicious centerpiece that guests will adore..
Pro Tip: Dust the brie with a bit of powdered sugar for a snowy effect, and get creative with garnishes like mini candy canes or holly leaves for an extra festive touch.
Get the Recipe: Snowman Charcuterie Brie Board
Creamy Whipped Feta Dip
Elevate your appetizer game with this incredibly easy and luxuriously creamy whipped feta dip.
Made with just a few key ingredients, its smooth texture and savory, salty flavor make it perfect for dipping everything from crackers and veggies to toasted bread.
A drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of spice take it over the top!.
Pro Tip: The dip thickens as it chills; let it sit at room temperature for a bit before serving again to regain its wonderfully smooth consistency.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Whipped Feta Dip