The holidays are the perfect time to gather with loved ones, celebrate, and indulge in delicious food.
Whether you’re hosting a big Christmas dinner or a cozy holiday get-together, having a spread of festive appetizers and finger foods is essential.
These 17 Christmas appetizers are easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and guaranteed to impress your guests — from savory bites to sweet little nibbles.
1. Cranberry Brie Bites
These elegant little puff pastry cups are filled with creamy brie cheese and tangy cranberry sauce.
As they bake, the brie melts into the flaky crust, creating a warm, gooey appetizer.
Top with a sprig of rosemary for a festive touch.
They’re easy to make ahead and serve warm or at room temperature — a true holiday crowd-pleaser.
2. Bacon-Wrapped Dates
A mix of sweet and salty perfection, bacon-wrapped dates are a staple for Christmas parties.
The crisp bacon contrasts beautifully with the chewy, caramel-like texture of the dates.
You can stuff them with almonds or goat cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Bake until golden and watch them disappear fast!
3. Mini Caprese Skewers
Bring a touch of freshness to your appetizer table with mini Caprese skewers.
Simply thread cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil onto small skewers, then drizzle with balsamic glaze.
They’re colorful, healthy, and require no cooking — a perfect cold appetizer for your Christmas gathering.
4. Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
These hearty bite-sized mushrooms are filled with a savory mixture of sausage, cream cheese, and herbs.
They bake up golden and tender, releasing a delicious aroma that fills your kitchen.
This dish is easy to prepare in advance and reheat before serving, making it ideal for busy hosts.
5. Spinach and Artichoke Dip Cups
Transform the classic spinach-artichoke dip into easy-to-eat phyllo cups.
Each bite is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with veggies, offering the perfect combination of comfort and convenience.
Serve warm for that irresistible melty texture everyone loves during the holidays.
6. Shrimp Cocktail Shooters
Elegant and refreshing, shrimp cocktail shooters are a classy way to serve a traditional favorite.
Fill small glasses or shot cups with tangy cocktail sauce, then perch a large shrimp on the rim.
Garnish with lemon wedges or parsley for a restaurant-style presentation your guests will adore.
Also Check: 12 christmas party food ideas appetizers
7. Cheese and Charcuterie Skewers
For a no-fuss but fancy appetizer, try cheese and charcuterie skewers.
Combine cubes of cheddar, salami, olives, and pickles on small sticks for a portable version of a charcuterie board.
It’s an easy and visually appealing way to add variety to your Christmas table.
8. Deviled Eggs with a Holiday Twist
Upgrade the classic deviled eggs by adding festive toppings like crispy bacon bits, smoked salmon, or a sprinkle of paprika and chives.
The creamy yolk filling pairs perfectly with these rich flavors, making them irresistible at any party.
9. Cranberry Meatballs
Juicy meatballs simmered in a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce make for a cozy and flavorful appetizer.
The combination of savory and sweet perfectly captures the essence of Christmas flavors.
Serve them in a slow cooker to keep them warm throughout the night.
10. Mini Quiches
Mini quiches are a versatile appetizer that works for any occasion.
You can fill them with ham and cheese, spinach and feta, or even roasted vegetables.
Bake them in mini muffin tins for perfect single-serve portions.
They’re also great for brunch-style Christmas gatherings.
11. Puff Pastry Pinwheels
Flaky, buttery puff pastry rolled with pesto, cheese, or prosciutto creates the ultimate finger food. Slice and bake until golden and crisp.
These pinwheels look impressive but are surprisingly simple to make — perfect for adding a gourmet touch to your appetizer spread.
12. Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil
Bruschetta is a timeless party favorite.
Toast slices of baguette, rub with garlic, and top with diced tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and a dash of salt.
The freshness of the ingredients balances beautifully with the crispy bread — an easy yet elegant choice for any holiday table.
13. Stuffed Mini Peppers
Sweet mini bell peppers make colorful vessels for a variety of fillings.
Try stuffing them with a creamy cheese blend or a savory sausage mixture.
They’re naturally bite-sized, easy to handle, and bring bright pops of red and green to your Christmas spread.
14. Baked Brie with Honey and Pecans
Few things say “holiday indulgence” like baked brie.
Warm, gooey cheese topped with honey, toasted pecans, and a sprinkle of rosemary creates a rich, decadent treat.
Serve with crackers or sliced apples for dipping — it’s simple but always impressive.
15. Cocktail Sausages in Cranberry BBQ Sauce
These tiny sausages are simmered in a cranberry-infused barbecue sauce, creating a tangy, sticky glaze that’s utterly addictive.
They’re easy to make in a slow cooker and can be served directly from it, making them a practical option for busy hosts.
16. Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
For a lighter yet flavorful appetizer, prosciutto-wrapped asparagus is a great choice.
Roast or air-fry until the prosciutto becomes crisp and the asparagus tender.
It’s elegant, easy to serve, and adds a touch of sophistication to your finger food menu.
17. Mini Christmas Tree Veggie Platter
End your appetizer table with a festive touch.
Arrange green veggies like broccoli, cucumber slices, and sugar snap peas in the shape of a Christmas tree on a platter.
Add cherry tomatoes for ornaments and a star-shaped yellow pepper on top.
Serve with ranch or hummus dip for a healthy, eye-catching centerpiece.
From cheesy bites to colorful veggie platters, these 17 Christmas appetizers and finger foods bring joy, flavor, and festivity to your holiday gatherings.
They’re perfect for mingling, easy to prepare ahead, and will keep your guests happily snacking while waiting for the main feast.
Mix and match your favorites, and you’ll have a holiday spread that’s both delicious and memorable.
