Planning food for a holiday get-together doesn’t have to be stressful. If you’re looking for simple Christmas appetizers that feel special but don’t take all day to make, this list is for you.
These recipes mix sweet and savory flavors, use seasonal ingredients like cranberries and brie, and come together with just a few easy steps.
Let’s get into it.
1. Mini Green Bean Casserole Bites
These little bites capture the creamy, savory taste of a classic green bean casserole in a fun, bite-sized form. They are topped with a crunchy layer that adds a nice texture contrast to the soft, flavorful filling.
You can check out the full recipe and instructions for making these tasty mini casseroles here.
2. Crockpot Apple Cider Glazed Meatballs
These meatballs are tender, sweet, and tangy, thanks to the apple cider glaze. Using a slow cooker keeps them warm and juicy for hours, which makes them a great choice for holiday parties. You can prep them early and let them cook while you focus on other things.
You can follow the steps for how to make these cranberry brie bites here.
3. Spinach Cranberry Feta Pinwheels in Puff Pastry
These flaky puff pastry rolls are filled with a mix of spinach, tart cranberries, and salty feta. They’re colorful, easy to slice into bite-sized pieces, and bake up golden and crisp. Great for both warm or room-temperature serving.
You can follow the steps for how to make these cranberry brie bites here.
4. Snowman Cheese Ball
This playful cheese ball is shaped like a snowman, making it a fun centerpiece for holiday parties. It’s creamy, flavorful, and pairs perfectly with crackers or fresh veggies.
You can even customize it with small details like olives or peppers for the snowman’s features, making it as decorative as it is delicious.
You can find the full instructions to create this snowy appetizer here.
5. Slow-Cooked Cranberry BBQ Meatballs
These meatballs cook slowly in a sauce made with cranberry and BBQ, giving them a deep, tangy flavor. They’re soft, juicy, and perfect for serving straight from the slow cooker. Great for grazing all evening.
You can follow the steps for how to make these cranberry brie bites here.
6. Sausage Turkey Cranberry Stuffing Balls
These bite-sized stuffing balls are a clever way to turn holiday stuffing into finger food. Made with sausage, turkey, and cranberries, they’re savory with just a hint of sweetness. They’re easy to bake ahead and reheat before serving.
You can follow the steps for how to make these cranberry brie bites here.
7. Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
This pull-apart bread is shaped like a Christmas tree and filled with gooey melted cheese. It’s made from small dough balls baked together and brushed with butter and herbs. It makes a warm, comforting centerpiece for any snack table.
You can follow the steps for how to make these cranberry brie bites here.
8. Ham and Cheese Sliders
These sliders are soft, cheesy, and packed with ham, making them a crowd-pleasing finger food. They’re easy to assemble and bake in the oven, so you can serve them warm and gooey right out of the pan.
You can follow the recipe to make these tasty sliders here.
9. Turkey Cranberry Sliders with Garlic Herb Butter Rolls
These sliders combine leftover turkey and cranberry sauce inside soft, buttery rolls. The garlic herb topping adds flavor and helps the tops bake up golden. They’re hearty enough to satisfy and easy to make in a big batch.
You can follow the steps for how to make these cranberry brie bites here.
10. Baked Cranberry Brie Bites
These little bites are made with puff pastry, melty brie, and a spoonful of cranberry sauce. They bake up golden and are just the right mix of sweet, savory, and creamy. Perfect for a tray of small nibbles.
You can follow the steps for how to make these cranberry brie bites here.
11. Maple Caramel Bacon Crack Bites
These sweet and salty bites are made with layers of buttery crackers, brown sugar, and crispy bacon. The maple and caramel drizzle makes them extra sticky and satisfying. They’re a bit indulgent, but perfect for the holidays.
You can follow the steps for how to make these cranberry brie bites here.
12. Holiday Mini Cheese Ball Bites
These mini cheese balls are perfect for snacking and party platters. Each bite-sized portion is creamy and flavorful, with a crunchy coating that adds texture and appeal.
They’re simple to prepare ahead of time, making them convenient for entertaining or casual get-togethers.
You can see how to make these festive mini bites here.
13. Cranberry & Turkey Tacos with Creamy Slaw and Avocado
These tacos are a fun twist on holiday leftovers. Tender turkey is paired with a tangy cranberry sauce, crunchy slaw, and creamy avocado, all tucked into soft tortillas. They’re light, fresh, and full of flavor.
You can follow the steps for how to make these cranberry brie bites here.
14. Crostini with Goat Cheese Dried Cranberries and Thyme
This crostini is simple but flavorful. The goat cheese gives it creaminess, while dried cranberries add a sweet pop. A little thyme ties everything together. It’s an easy appetizer that looks elegant on a tray.
You can follow the steps for how to make these cranberry brie bites here.
15. Crockpot Grape Jelly Meatballs
These meatballs are a classic party food. The sauce, made with grape jelly and chili sauce, is sweet, savory, and just a little tangy. They’re easy to make in a slow cooker and stay warm all evening.
You can follow the steps for how to make these cranberry brie bites here.
Final Thoughts
Holiday appetizers don’t need to be complicated to be special. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can make snacks that are festive, full of flavor, and easy to share. Whether you’re into cheesy bites