10 Delicious Holiday Appetizers for a Festive Feast
We may earn a commission through all links on this website. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes a flurry of festive gatherings, parties, and get-togethers where delicious food is always at the forefront. As we deck the halls and trim the trees, our taste buds are already salivating at the thought of indulging in a spread of savory and sweet treats. And what better way to kick off the holiday cheer than with a platter of tantalizing appetizers that will leave your guests clamoring for more?
From classic favorites to innovative twists, we’ve rounded up the most mouthwatering holiday appetizer ideas to impress your friends and family, and set the tone for a memorable and merry holiday season.
All Time Best Appetizers (All-Time Best)
$13.99 (as of October 27, 2025 09:03 GMT -04:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Stuffed Mini Peppers
Stuffed Mini Peppers are a vibrant and flavorful appetizer that will brighten up any holiday gathering. These bite-sized peppers are filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, herbs, and spices, making them both delicious and festive. With their colorful appearance and delightful taste, they are sure to be a hit with guests of all ages.
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). 2. Slice the mini peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. 3. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well blended. 4. Stuff each mini pepper half with the cheese mixture using a spoon or a piping bag. 5. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 6. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is slightly golden. 7. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Stuffed Mini Peppers!
Cranberry Brie Bites
Cranberry Brie Bites are a delightful holiday appetizer that combines the creamy richness of Brie cheese with the tartness of cranberry sauce. Wrapped in a flaky pastry, these bite-sized treats are not only visually appealing but also burst with flavor in every bite. Perfect for parties or gatherings, they are sure to impress your guests and elevate your holiday spread.
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). 2. Roll out a sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into squares. 3. Place a small chunk of Brie cheese and a spoonful of cranberry sauce in the center of each pastry square. 4. Fold the pastry over the filling to create little parcels, sealing the edges with a fork. 5. Arrange the bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the tops with an egg wash. 6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. 7. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Brie Bites!
Savory Spinach Artichoke Dip
Savory Spinach Artichoke Dip is a creamy and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. This rich blend of spinach, artichokes, and cheeses creates a warm, irresistible dip that pairs beautifully with toasted bread or crunchy crackers. Your guests will be asking for the recipe as they savor every bite of this festive favorite.
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). 2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of chopped spinach (cooked and drained), 1 cup of canned artichoke hearts (chopped), 1 cup of cream cheese, 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1/2 cup of sour cream, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. 3. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined, then season with salt and pepper to taste. 4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly. 5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the dip is bubbling and golden on top. 6. Serve warm with tortilla chips, toasted baguette slices, or vegetable sticks.
Shrimp Cocktail with Zesty Sauce
Shrimp Cocktail with Zesty Sauce is a classic holiday appetizer that effortlessly impresses your guests. The succulent shrimp are perfectly cooked and chilled, served with a vibrant and tangy sauce that elevates their flavor. This dish not only looks stunning on your festive table but also offers a refreshing bite that balances the richness of other holiday treats.
1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. 2. Remove the shrimp from the pot and immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. 3. In a bowl, combine ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to create the zesty sauce. 4. Once the shrimp are chilled, drain them and arrange on a platter with the zesty sauce in the center for dipping. 5. Garnish with lemon wedges and serve immediately.
Sweet Potato Bites with Marshmallow
Sweet Potato Bites with Marshmallow are a delightful twist on traditional holiday appetizers. These bite-sized treats feature creamy, roasted sweet potatoes topped with a fluffy marshmallow finishing touch, making them a perfect blend of savory and sweet. They are not only visually appealing but also a crowd-pleaser at any festive gathering.
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). 2. Peel and cube the sweet potatoes, then steam or boil them until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. 3. Drain and mash the sweet potatoes, then mix in a pinch of salt, cinnamon, and a tablespoon of brown sugar to add flavor. 4. Use a small cookie scoop to form bite-sized balls of the mashed sweet potato mixture and place them on a baking sheet. 5. Top each bite with a small dollop of mini marshmallows. 6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown and caramelized. 7. Let cool slightly before serving and enjoy your festive appetizer!
Classic Deviled Eggs
Classic Deviled Eggs are a timeless appetizer that brings a touch of elegance to any holiday gathering. With their creamy yolk filling seasoned to perfection, these bites are not only delicious but also visually appealing. They are a crowd-pleaser that can easily be customized with a variety of toppings, making them a versatile choice for entertaining.
1. Hard boil 6 large eggs by placing them in a saucepan, covering them with water, and bringing it to a boil. Once boiling, cover and remove from heat, letting them sit for 12 minutes. 2. After 12 minutes, transfer the eggs to an ice bath to cool for at least 5 minutes before peeling. 3. Slice the eggs in half lengthwise and gently remove the yolks into a mixing bowl. 4. Mash the yolks with a fork and mix in 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of vinegar, salt, and pepper to taste until smooth. 5. Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the egg whites. 6. Garnish with paprika, fresh herbs, or crumbled bacon if desired. 7. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Drizzle
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Drizzle are a festive and refreshing appetizer, perfect for holiday gatherings. These skewers combine the freshness of basil, creamy mozzarella, and ripe cherry tomatoes, all drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze. They are not only visually appealing but also offer a delightful burst of flavors in every bite.
1. Gather your ingredients: fresh basil leaves, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and balsamic glaze. 2. On a skewer, thread one mozzarella ball, followed by a basil leaf, and then a cherry tomato. 3. Repeat this process until the skewer is filled, leaving space at the ends for easy handling. 4. Arrange the skewers on a serving platter and drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving. Enjoy!
Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks are the perfect appetizer for any holiday gathering, combining the irresistible flavors of garlic and melted cheese. Soft, warm, and buttery, these breadsticks are sure to delight your guests and complement any festive spread. Easy to prepare and perfect for sharing, they make a delicious addition to your holiday menu.
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). 2. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. 3. Roll out pizza dough into a rectangle on a floured surface and cut into strips. 4. In a small bowl, mix melted butter with minced garlic and Italian seasoning. 5. Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the dough strips. 6. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the buttered strips. 7. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cheese is bubbly. 8. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. 9. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra festive touch.
Mini Quiches with Assorted Fillings
Mini quiches with assorted fillings are delightful bite-sized appetizers that bring a touch of elegance to any holiday gathering. These savory treats can be customized with a variety of ingredients, from classic cheese and ham to fresh vegetables and herbs, making them suitable for any palate. They are easy to prepare in advance and can be served warm or at room temperature, making them a perfect addition to your holiday spread.
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). 2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 6 eggs, 1 cup of milk, salt, and pepper to taste. 3. Grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray. 4. Place small amounts of your desired fillings (such as diced bell peppers, cooked bacon, shredded cheese, or spinach) into each muffin cup. 5. Pour the egg mixture over the fillings until the cups are about three-quarters full. 6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the quiches are set and lightly golden. 7. Allow to cool slightly before removing from the tin. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip
Hot Buffalo Chicken Dip is a fiery and creamy delight that quickly becomes a crowd favorite during any holiday gathering. Packed with shredded chicken, cream cheese, and a generous helping of spicy buffalo sauce, this dip pairs perfectly with crispy tortilla chips or fresh veggies. It’s easy to prepare and can be served warm, making it an ideal appetizer to keep the festivities lively.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken, 8 oz of cream cheese (softened), ½ cup of buffalo sauce, ½ cup of ranch dressing, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. 3. Mix until well blended and creamy. 4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly. 5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. 6. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. 7. Enjoy with tortilla chips, celery sticks, or your favorite dippables.
