It’s the season for holiday gatherings, and I’ve got just what you need to kick off your celebrations right.
These Christmas appetizers are perfect for getting the party started, whether you’re hosting a cozy family get-together or throwing a festive neighborhood party. From classic cheese balls to bite-sized nibbles, each recipe brings something special to your holiday spread.
I’ve rounded up 26 appetizer recipes that are easy to prepare ahead of time, letting you spend more time with your guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen. They’re the kind of snacks that disappear fast and have everyone asking for the recipe.
Perfect for setting out before the main event, these appetizers help set a festive mood and keep hungry guests happy while dinner’s cooking.
Best Christmas Stuffed Dates
- 20 large medjool dates
- 4 ounces goat cheese (softened)
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup chopped walnuts
- Warm honey (for drizzling)
- Red pepper flakes
Total Time: 10-20 minutes
Best Christmas stuffed dates are sweet, savory, and a little spicy. Soft medjool dates are filled with creamy goat cheese and crunchy walnuts, then drizzled with warm honey and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a delightful mix of flavors.
They’re a festive treat for holiday gatherings and are easy to make ahead for stress-free entertaining.
Best Christmas Stuffed Mushrooms
- 20 baby bell or cremini mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- ½ medium onion, finely diced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 ounces softened cream cheese
- ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ⅓ cup roughly chopped pecans
- ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley (extra for topping)
Total Time: 35-45 minutes
If you love holiday appetizers, these stuffed mushrooms are a great addition to your festive spread. You can prepare them in advance, making it easier to enjoy time with your family instead of being stuck in the kitchen. Pro tip: For a bit of extra crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking.
Best Christmas Stuffed Shrimp Recipe
- 1 pound large shrimp (jumbo or colossal)
- 8 ounces lump crab meat (checked for shells)
- 10 ritz crackers, finely crushed (just under 1/2 cup crumbs)
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon old bay seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (split)
- 1/2 teaspoon worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (extra for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Total Time: 33-45 minutes
If you’re looking for a festive dish to wow your family this Christmas, give this stuffed shrimp recipe a try. You’ll start with jumbo shrimp and fill them with a flavorful mix of lump crab meat, crushed Ritz crackers, and a blend of spices.
It’s a dish that feels special but is surprisingly easy to make. A tip from my kitchen: prepare them ahead of time and just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
Serve these alongside lemon wedges for a fresh kick, and sprinkle a little extra parsley on top for a nice touch. Enjoy with your loved ones!
Crispy Christmas Bacon Crackers
- 1 package of club-style crackers (approximately 36 crackers)
- 1 pound bacon (sliced into thirds)
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- Cayenne pepper, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Total Time: 40-55 minutes
Crispy, sweet, and with a little kick, these Christmas Bacon Crackers are a snack you won’t want to miss.
Using just a pack of club crackers, bacon, brown sugar, and a sprinkle of cayenne and black pepper, these are super easy to make. Simply wrap each cracker with a bacon slice, sprinkle with sugar and spices, and bake until crispy. These bites are perfect for holiday gatherings or just a cozy night in with the family.
Delicious Christmas Salad with Goat Cheese and Oranges
- 1/3 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons of dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons of honey
- Juice from 1 large freshly squeezed lime
- 6 oz of baby spinach
- 1 cup pecan halves (lightly toasted, some finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 3 mandarin oranges (peeled and in segments)
- 1/3 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1/3 cup pomegranate seeds (or more if desired)
Total Time: 10-15 minutes
Delicious Christmas Salad with Goat Cheese and Oranges is fresh, sweet, and a bit tangy. Crisp baby spinach, crunchy pecans, and juicy mandarin oranges are tossed with creamy goat cheese and tart pomegranate seeds, all drizzled with a honey-lime dressing.
It’s a festive choice for holiday gatherings and can be made ahead for easy entertaining.
Easy Christmas Cranberry Brie
- 1 tablespoon melted salted butter
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 2 to 4 tablespoons brown sugar (adjust to your taste, i use 2 tablespoons)
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon powder
- 2 sheets frozen puff pastry (from 1 box), thawed
- 2 wheels of brie cheese (8 ounces each), each cut into 12 slices (rind left on)
- 1/3 cup fig jam
- 1 beaten egg
- Coarse sugar for sprinkling
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Total Time: 30-40 minutes
If there’s one holiday appetizer to try, make it this one. You’ll combine the tartness of fresh cranberries with the creamy richness of brie, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry.
It’s super simple to put together, and once you get the hang of it, you’ll be serving it at every holiday gathering. As a tip, “Adjust the sweetness to your liking with the brown sugar, and don’t skip the fig jam for an extra layer of flavor.”
When it’s time to enjoy, sprinkle with coarse sugar and fresh thyme for a festive touch. Serve warm and watch them disappear!
Easy Christmas Peppermint Fluff Dip
- 7 ounces marshmallow spread
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon peppermint essence
- 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies
- 1-2 drops red food coloring (if desired)
- Chocolate graham crackers or other dipping items
Total Time: 10-15 minutes
Easy, festive, and full of holiday cheer, this Christmas Peppermint Fluff Dip is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
With marshmallow spread, cream cheese, and a hint of peppermint essence, this dip is as simple as it is delicious. Add some crushed peppermint candies and a drop or two of red food coloring for that holiday flair, and you’ve got a treat that’s both fun and tasty. Serve it up with chocolate graham crackers or your favorite dippers, and watch it disappear faster than Santa on Christmas Eve!
Easy Vegan Christmas Salad
- 1 cup raw wild rice
- 5 oz chopped baby arugula
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1 cup sliced green onions
- 1 cup chopped roasted pecans
- 1 cup dried cherries
- 3 tablespoons dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (add more if needed)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Total Time: 70-85 minutes
Easy Vegan Christmas Salad is a refreshing and satisfying dish. Nutty wild rice, peppery baby arugula, and juicy pomegranate seeds come together with sliced green onions, roasted pecans, and sweet dried cherries. The dressing, made with dijon mustard, white wine vinegar, maple syrup, lemon juice, and a hint of garlic, adds a tangy touch that ties everything together.
Perfect for holiday gatherings or a light lunch, this salad is a colorful addition to any table.
Festive Christmas Stuffed Celery
- 6 to 7 celery stalks (rinsed and dried)
- 1 (8 oz) block of softened cream cheese
- 1 (0.7 oz) packet italian dressing mix
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Total Time: 10-15 minutes
If you’re looking for a simple holiday snack, try this Festive Christmas Stuffed Celery. You’ll mix together softened cream cheese, a packet of Italian dressing mix, mayonnaise, and shredded mozzarella cheese for a creamy filling that pairs perfectly with crisp celery stalks.
It’s a quick and easy recipe that doesn’t take much time, so you can spend more of it with family. As a tip, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge, making assembly a breeze when guests arrive.
Serve it up as a crunchy appetizer or a light snack, and watch it disappear. Enjoy!
Festive Christmas Stuffed Strawberries
- 12 large strawberries (hulled)
- 8 ounces softened cream cheese
- 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Total Time: 15-20 minutes
If you’re looking for a sweet treat with a holiday twist, these Festive Christmas Stuffed Strawberries are a great choice. They’re simple to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends. You can whip these up in no time, which is handy when you’re juggling holiday preparations. Pro tip: For an extra pop of color, add a fresh mint leaf on top before serving.
Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 3/4 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 8 ounces softened goat cheese
- 4 ounces softened cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 3/4 teaspoon grated lemon peel
- 15 pretzel sticks
Total Time: 60-90 minutes
If you’re looking for a fun and easy appetizer, this Festive Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a must-try. You’ll love the mix of tangy goat cheese and cream cheese, sweet honey, and a hint of lemon peel.
It’s a breeze to put together, and once you do, you’ll have a perfect combo of flavors and textures. As one of my friends said, “Make it ahead of time, so you can just relax and enjoy when guests arrive.”
When you’re ready to dig in, serve it with pretzel sticks for a crunchy bite. Enjoy!
Festive Keto Christmas Dip
- 8 ounces softened cream cheese
- 10 sugar-free peppermint candies
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar alternative
- 2 tablespoons almond milk
- 2 teaspoons peppermint essence
Total Time: 10-15 minutes
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Festive Keto Christmas Dip is a creamy, minty treat that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. Softened cream cheese blends with sugar-free peppermint candies and a powdered sugar alternative for a sweet and refreshing flavor. Almond milk and peppermint essence add a smooth, minty touch.
It’s a great choice for those following a keto diet, and it’s easy to whip up for a festive snack or a fun addition to your holiday dessert table.
Healthy Christmas Wreath Salad
- 1 1/2 cups fresh arugula
- 1/4 cup pomegranate arils
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 garlic clove
- 1/2 avocado, pitted and peeled
- Juice from 1/2 a lemon
- 3 tablespoons orange juice
- A pinch of salt
Total Time: 10-15 minutes
If you’re looking for a festive salad that’s both healthy and delicious, try this one. You’ll mix fresh arugula with pomegranate arils, crumbled feta, and a drizzle of avocado oil dressing made with honey, garlic, avocado, lemon juice, and orange juice.
It’s quick to make and perfect for the holiday season. As one of our taste testers put it, “The combination of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors makes it a hit at any table.”
When you’re ready to serve, arrange it in a wreath shape for a fun holiday touch. Enjoy!
Juicy Christmas Cheese Ball
- 8 oz goat cheese
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- A pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (if desired)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Total Time: 15-25 minutes
If you’re looking for a tasty appetizer for your holiday gathering, this Juicy Christmas Cheese Ball is a great choice. It’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, which is perfect for busy holiday schedules. Pro tip: Toast the pecans with a little butter and brown sugar for extra flavor before mixing them into the cheese ball.
Nutty Candied Pecan Christmas Salad with Apples and Cranberries
- 150 grams of baby spinach (about 5 oz)
- 1 crisp red apple, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped (can use candied pecans)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Total Time: 10-20 minutes
If you’re looking for a fresh salad to brighten up your holiday table, this Nutty Candied Pecan Christmas Salad is a great choice. It’s quick to put together, making it perfect for those busy days when you need something easy. Pro tip: If you want a bit more crunch, try adding some thinly sliced celery to the mix.
Quick Christmas Cranberry Meatballs
- 1 small onion (grated or finely diced)
- 1 ½ pounds very lean ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (like panko)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup tomato ketchup
- 2 tablespoons worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups cranberry sauce (homemade or packaged)
- 1 cup tomato ketchup
- 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Total Time: 35-45 minutes
Cooking meatballs can feel like a chore, but this recipe makes it a breeze. The combination of lean pork and breadcrumbs creates a tender texture, while the cranberry sauce adds a sweet and tangy twist. Mixing in grated onion and fresh parsley brings out a burst of flavor. The secret is in the sauce, with ketchup, brown sugar, and a splash of lemon juice for a perfect balance. These meatballs are a festive addition to any holiday spread.
Quick Christmas French Onion Soup
- 3 pounds of yellow onions (or a combination of yellow and red, roughly 6 large onions)
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or dry vermouth
- 8 cups of unsalted beef broth*
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of brandy or 1 tablespoon dry sherry
- 6 slices of french bread or baguette, 1-inch thick
- 1 1/2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups of grated gruyère cheese (approximately 6 ounces)
- Optional: chopped fresh chives
Total Time: 105-125 minutes
If you want to whip up something special this Christmas, try this French Onion Soup. You’ll start with a mix of yellow and red onions, cooked down with butter and a touch of salt. Add in some dry white wine and beef broth for a rich base, and don’t forget the bay leaf and pepper for a little extra flavor.
A splash of brandy or sherry gives it that festive kick, while toasted slices of French bread topped with gooey Gruyère cheese make it a cozy, comforting meal. For a fresh finish, sprinkle some chopped chives on top if you like.
This soup is perfect for warming up chilly evenings and pairs beautifully with a crisp salad and a glass of your favorite white wine. Enjoy!
Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups
- 8 ounces softened cream cheese
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/3 cup fresh chives, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups dried cranberries
- 4 large flour tortillas (10 inches each)
Total Time: 75-80 minutes
If you’re a fan of easy appetizers, then these Savory Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups are a must-try. You can whip them up in no time, which is perfect for those busy holiday gatherings. Pro tip: If you want a bit more crunch, add some chopped walnuts to the mix before rolling them up.
Spicy Cranberry Jalapeno Dip (Perfect for Holidays)
- 12 ounces of fresh cranberries
- 4 to 5 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
- Adjustable amount of sugar, around 1 cup
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Two 8-ounce packs of cream cheese, softened (light or regular)
- Crackers for serving
Total Time: 240-300 minutes
Spicy Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is a zesty and creamy treat that’s just right for the holidays. Fresh cranberries, green onions, and cilantro mix with jalapeño and a hint of cumin for a sweet and tangy flavor. Cream cheese adds a smooth texture, making it perfect for spreading on crackers.
It’s a fun dish to share at gatherings, and you can adjust the sugar to suit your taste.
Tasty Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels
- 3/4 cup sweetened dried cranberries
- One 8 oz pack of cream cheese, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 large flour tortillas (wheat or spinach for a touch of color)
Total Time: 60-80 minutes
Tasty, festive, and filled with a mix of flavors, these Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels are a real treat.
With sweetened dried cranberries, cream cheese, feta cheese, and green onions all rolled up in flour tortillas (wheat or spinach if you want to add a bit of color), these pinwheels are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering. They’re simple to make and perfect for snacking or serving as a fun appetizer.
Tasty Christmas Cranberry Walnut Salad
- 4 cups mixed spring lettuce
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (sweetened with fruit juice)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (made with authentic ingredients)
Total Time: 10-15 minutes
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Refreshing, easy to make, and full of some of our favorite flavors (hello, blue cheese!), this salad is bringing all the holiday cheer.
Made with mixed spring lettuce, dried cranberries sweetened with fruit juice, chopped walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese made with authentic ingredients, I’m sure this salad will be a hit at your Christmas table.
Tasty Christmas Eggnog Dip
- 8 ounces cold cream cheese
- 6 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 cup eggnog
- 1 cup cool whip
- Ginger snap cookie crumbs
- Smoked turbinado sugar
Total Time: 135-140 minutes
Tasty Christmas Eggnog Dip brings a festive twist to your holiday gatherings. Creamy and smooth, this dip combines cold cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a hint of pumpkin pie spice for a cozy flavor. The addition of eggnog and cool whip makes it light and fluffy, while ginger snap cookie crumbs and smoked turbinado sugar add a sweet and crunchy finish.
It’s perfect for dipping fresh fruit or cookies and is sure to be a hit at any celebration.
Tasty Christmas Salad with Pears and Pomegranate Seeds
- 6 to 8 cups (approximately 5 oz.) of mixed greens (or your preferred leafy greens)*
- 1 ripe pear, chopped or sliced
- 1 apple, chopped or sliced
- 1 avocado, chopped or sliced
- 1 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/2 cup sweetened or roasted nuts (such as pecans, almonds, pistachios, or walnuts)
- Optional: 1/4 cup finely sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup avocado oil or mild olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Total Time: 10-15 minutes
If you’re looking for a festive salad, then this Tasty Christmas Salad with Pears and Pomegranate Seeds should be on your list. It’s packed with fresh flavors and textures that make it a great addition to any holiday meal. You can prepare it in advance, making it perfect for busy days when you want to spend more time with family. Pro tip: If you like a bit of a kick, add some finely sliced red onion for extra flavor.
Tasty Christmas Stuffed Eggs
- 6 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 ½ teaspoons spicy brown mustard
- 1 teaspoon sour cream
- 24 pink peppercorns (or small pieces of red bell pepper)
- 12 small parsley leaves
- Salt and freshly ground pepper (to taste)
Total Time: 35-50 minutes
Tasty Christmas Stuffed Eggs are a quick and fun appetizer that brings a little festive flair to your table. Made with simple ingredients like eggs, mayonnaise, spicy brown mustard, and sour cream, these little bites are easy to whip up.
Topped with pink peppercorns or red bell pepper and a sprinkle of parsley, they’re sure to be a hit at your holiday gathering. Just a pinch of salt and pepper, and you’ve got a dish that’s both easy on the wallet and a delight to share with family and friends.
Tasty Christmas Tree Bread Stuffed with Cheese
- 13 ounces refrigerated pizza dough
- Parchment paper (for lining a baking sheet)
- 6-7 mozzarella string cheese sticks
- 1 large egg mixed with 1 tablespoon of water (for egg wash)
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (split)
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
- 1/2 tablespoon finely chopped fresh basil
- 1 grated garlic clove
- 1 jar marinara or pesto sauce (for dipping)
Total Time: 36-48 minutes
Tasty, easy, and filled with cheesy goodness, this Christmas Tree Bread is a must-try for the holiday season.
Using refrigerated pizza dough (because who has time to make it from scratch?), mozzarella string cheese sticks, and a mix of fresh herbs and garlic, this festive bread is all about simple ingredients coming together. Brush it with melted butter, sprinkle some parmesan, and bake to golden perfection. Don’t forget to serve it with a jar of marinara or pesto for dipping. I bet your family will love pulling apart this cheesy treat!
Traditional Polish Christmas Mushroom Soup
- 2 1/2 ounces (75g) dried porcini mushrooms
- 3 cups water
- 2 carrots
- 2 parsley roots (optional)
- A piece of celeriac (or 2 stalks celery)
- 1/2 leek
- 1 large onion
- 3 garlic cloves
- 10 whole black peppercorns
- 2 allspice berries
- 2 bay leaves
- A few sprigs of parsley
- A few sprigs of thyme
- 5 cups cold water
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 7 ounces (200g) cremini mushrooms (also called baby bellas)
- 1 medium onion
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
- 2-3 teaspoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Chopped parsley (for garnish)
- 12 ounces (340g) medium pasta shapes (like bow ties) or egg noodles, to accompany the soup
Total Time: 90-115 minutes
Mushroom soup is a classic at Polish Christmas tables, and this version is a real treat. The dried porcini mushrooms give it a deep, earthy flavor that’s just perfect for the holidays. You’ll start by soaking them in water, which becomes a rich broth. Then, you add veggies like carrots, celeriac, and leeks, along with some herbs and spices for extra flavor. Sautéing fresh cremini mushrooms and onions before adding them to the soup gives it a nice depth. A splash of cream and a bit of lemon juice at the end bring everything together. Serve it with pasta or egg noodles for a comforting meal.