27 Festive Christmas Appetizers That Disappear in Minutes

Introduction
Welcome to the holiday season with a lineup of Christmas appetizers that’ll have your guests reaching for seconds! These crowd-pleasing bites are packed with festive flavors, easy to whip up, and perfect for any holiday gathering. From creamy dips to crispy bites, this list has something for everyone to savor.

1. Cranberry Brie Bites

These cranberry brie bites are a holiday favorite, blending the tart sweetness of cranberries with the creamy richness of brie in a flaky puff pastry. They’re quick to assemble, making them ideal for busy hosts who want a show-stopping appetizer without the fuss. The vibrant colors and warm flavors scream Christmas cheer.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (8 oz)
• 8 oz brie cheese, cut into 24 cubes
• ½ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly spray a 24-cup mini muffin tin.
2. Roll out puff pastry and cut into 24 squares (about 2 inches each).
3. Press pastry squares into muffin cups. Place a brie cube in each.
4. Spoon 1 tsp cranberry sauce over brie. Sprinkle with rosemary.
5. Bake for 12–15 minutes until pastry is golden and cheese is bubbly.
6. Cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a serving platter.

How to Serve It
Garnish with a tiny rosemary sprig for a festive touch. Serve warm on a wooden board with scattered cranberries for color. Pair with a chilled white wine to balance the richness. These bites are best enjoyed fresh from the oven for maximum crispiness.

2. Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese

Sweet, savory, and slightly smoky, these bacon-wrapped dates are a holiday hit that combines chewy dates with tangy goat cheese and crispy bacon. They’re simple yet sophisticated, perfect for a Christmas cocktail party. The balsamic drizzle adds a touch of elegance that guests will love.

Ingredients

• 12 large Medjool dates, pitted
• 4 oz goat cheese
• 6 slices bacon, cut in half
• 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Stuff each date with 1 tsp goat cheese. Wrap tightly with a bacon half.
3. Secure with a toothpick and place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway, until bacon is crispy.
5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with thyme.

How to Serve It
Serve warm on a sleek platter with extra balsamic glaze on the side for dipping. Add a sprinkle of thyme for a fresh, festive look. These pair beautifully with a bold red wine or sparkling cider for holiday gatherings.

3. Spinach and Artichoke Dip

This warm, cheesy spinach and artichoke dip is a holiday classic that brings comfort to any Christmas gathering. Its creamy texture and savory flavors make it irresistible, and it’s easy to prep ahead for stress-free hosting. Perfect for dipping with bread or veggies.

Ingredients

• 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained (10 oz)
• 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped (14 oz)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella, divided
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Mix cream cheese, sour cream, ¾ cup mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Fold in spinach and artichokes until combined.
4. Spread mixture into a 1-quart baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella.
5. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
6. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve It
Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of green. Serve with toasted baguette slices, crackers, or fresh veggies like carrots and celery. Keep it warm in a small slow cooker for easy self-serving at holiday parties.

4. Mini Caprese Skewers

These mini caprese skewers are a fresh, light appetizer that brings a burst of Christmas colors to your table. The combination of juicy tomatoes, soft mozzarella, and fragrant basil is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to assemble and perfect for holiday mingling.

Ingredients

• 24 cherry tomatoes
• 24 mini mozzarella balls (ciliegine)
• 24 fresh basil leaves
• 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

1. Thread a cherry tomato, basil leaf (folded), and mozzarella ball onto each skewer.
2. Arrange skewers on a platter.
3. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and olive oil.
4. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt.
5. Chill for 10 minutes before serving to meld flavors.

How to Serve It
Serve chilled on a sleek platter for a refreshing contrast to heavier holiday dishes. Add a few extra basil leaves around the platter for a festive touch. Pair with a crisp prosecco to complement the bright flavors.

5. Stuffed Mushrooms with Sausage

These sausage-stuffed mushrooms are a hearty, flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for a cozy Christmas gathering. The juicy mushrooms paired with savory sausage and crispy breadcrumbs make every bite a holiday treat. They’re easy to prep and always a hit.

Ingredients

• 16 large cremini mushrooms, stems removed
• ½ lb Italian sausage, casing removed
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ¼ tsp salt

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Cook sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
3. Mix sausage, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, and salt in a bowl.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the mixture. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 18–20 minutes until mushrooms are tender and tops are golden.

How to Serve It
Garnish with extra parsley for a festive green pop. Serve warm on a rustic tray with small forks for easy eating. These pair well with a medium-bodied red wine or a spiced holiday ale.

6. Smoked Salmon Crostini

These smoked salmon crostini are a classy, no-cook appetizer that’s perfect for a festive Christmas spread. The creamy dill spread and briny capers complement the rich salmon, creating a bite-sized treat that’s both elegant and effortless.

Ingredients

• 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 4 oz smoked salmon, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp capers, drained
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
2. Toast slices for 8–10 minutes until golden. Cool slightly.
3. Mix cream cheese, dill, lemon juice, and zest in a bowl.
4. Spread cream cheese mixture on each toast. Top with a slice of salmon.
5. Garnish with a few capers.

How to Serve It
Arrange on a chilled platter with extra dill sprigs for a festive look. Serve with a lemon wedge on the side for guests to squeeze over. Pair with a chilled sparkling wine for a sophisticated holiday vibe.

7. Baked Goat Cheese with Fig Jam

This baked goat cheese with fig jam is a warm, luxurious appetizer that’s perfect for a festive Christmas party. The creamy cheese and sweet fig jam create a rich, indulgent flavor that’s easy to scoop and share.

Ingredients

• 8 oz goat cheese log
• ½ cup fig jam
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1 baguette, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Place goat cheese in a small oven-safe dish. Spread fig jam over the top.
3. Bake for 10–12 minutes until cheese is soft and warm.
4. Brush baguette slices with olive oil and toast in the oven for 8–10 minutes.
5. Sprinkle thyme over the baked cheese.

How to Serve It
Serve warm with a small spoon for scooping. Surround with toasted baguette slices and garnish with extra thyme for a festive touch. Pair with a sweet white wine or a holiday punch for a cozy vibe.

8. Pesto Pinwheels

These pesto pinwheels are a fun, flavorful appetizer that’s as pretty as it is tasty. The buttery puff pastry and herby pesto make them a holiday favorite that’s quick to prepare and perfect for sharing.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed (8 oz)
• ⅓ cup basil pesto
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• 1 egg, beaten

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Roll out puff pastry and spread pesto evenly over it.
3. Sprinkle Parmesan over the pesto.
4. Roll pastry tightly into a log and slice into ½-inch rounds.
5. Place pinwheels on the baking sheet and brush with egg wash.
6. Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and crispy.

How to Serve It
Serve warm or at room temperature on a festive platter with a few basil leaves for garnish. Arrange in a spiral pattern for a holiday wreath effect. Pair with a light red wine or sparkling water with lemon.

9. Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon

This prosciutto-wrapped melon is a refreshing, no-cook appetizer that balances sweet and salty flavors. It’s a light, elegant bite that’s perfect for a Christmas cocktail party and takes just minutes to assemble.

Ingredients

• 1 small cantaloupe, scooped into 24 balls
• 12 thin slices prosciutto, cut in half
• 24 small mint leaves
• 24 small skewers

Instructions

1. Scoop cantaloupe into balls using a melon baller.
2. Wrap each melon ball with a half slice of prosciutto.
3. Secure with a skewer and top with a mint leaf.
4. Chill for 15 minutes before serving.

How to Serve It
Serve chilled on a sleek platter for a refreshing bite. Garnish with extra mint for a festive green pop. These pair beautifully with a crisp rosé or a sparkling mocktail for a holiday touch.

10. Cheesy Garlic Bread Bites

These cheesy garlic bread bites are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s warm, buttery, and packed with garlic flavor. Perfect for a cozy Christmas gathering, they’re easy to make and impossible to resist.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ tsp salt

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Toss bread cubes with melted butter, garlic, and salt in a bowl.
3. Spread cubes on the baking sheet and sprinkle with mozzarella.
4. Bake for 10–12 minutes until cheese is melted and bread is golden.
5. Sprinkle with parsley before serving.

How to Serve It
Serve warm in a basket lined with a festive napkin for a cozy feel. Add a side of marinara sauce for dipping. These bites pair perfectly with a hearty red wine or a warm holiday cider.

11. Shrimp Cocktail

This classic shrimp cocktail is a timeless holiday appetizer that’s both elegant and refreshing. The zesty cocktail sauce and tender shrimp make it a crowd favorite that’s easy to prepare and serve.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp horseradish
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• Lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions

1. Boil shrimp in salted water for 2–3 minutes until pink. Drain and chill.
2. Mix ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl.
3. Chill sauce for 15 minutes to meld flavors.
4. Arrange shrimp around a bowl of sauce on a platter.
5. Garnish with lemon wedges.

How to Serve It
Serve chilled on a decorative tray with extra lemon wedges for squeezing. Add a sprinkle of parsley for a festive touch. Pair with a crisp white wine or a light holiday spritzer.

12. Mini Meatballs with Cranberry Glaze

These mini meatballs with cranberry glaze are a sweet and savory holiday treat that’s perfect for Christmas parties. The tangy glaze adds a festive twist to the classic meatball, making them irresistible.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup milk
• ½ cup cranberry sauce
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Mix beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, and garlic powder. Form into 24 small meatballs.
3. Bake for 15–18 minutes until cooked through.
4. Heat cranberry sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar in a saucepan until smooth.
5. Toss meatballs in glaze and skewer with rosemary sprigs.

How to Serve It
Serve warm on a festive platter with extra glaze for dipping. Garnish with fresh cranberries for a pop of color. These pair well with a bold red wine or a spiced holiday cocktail.

13. Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

This vibrant roasted red pepper hummus is a creamy, flavorful dip that’s perfect for a healthy holiday appetizer. Its bold color and smoky taste make it a festive addition to any Christmas spread.

Ingredients

• 1 can chickpeas, drained (15 oz)
• 1 roasted red pepper, chopped
• ¼ cup tahini
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 garlic clove
• ½ tsp cumin
• ½ tsp salt

Instructions

1. Blend chickpeas, red pepper, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, and salt in a food processor until smooth.
2. Adjust seasoning to taste. Add water (1 tbsp at a time) for desired consistency.
3. Transfer to a serving bowl and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Chill for 20 minutes before serving.

How to Serve It
Serve with pita chips, carrot sticks, and cucumber slices for dipping. Swirl extra olive oil on top and sprinkle with paprika for a festive look. Pair with a light, refreshing holiday mocktail.

14. Mini Quiche Lorraine

These mini quiche Lorraine bites are a rich, savory appetizer that’s perfect for a festive Christmas brunch or dinner. The flaky crust and creamy filling make them a decadent treat that’s easy to pop in your mouth.

Ingredients

• 1 pie crust, store-bought
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• ½ cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 2 eggs
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Spray a 24-cup mini muffin tin.
2. Roll out pie crust and cut into 24 rounds (2.5 inches each).
3. Press rounds into muffin cups. Sprinkle bacon and cheese into each.
4. Whisk eggs, cream, salt, and pepper. Pour into crusts, filling ¾ full.
5. Bake for 18–20 minutes until set and golden. Cool 5 minutes.

How to Serve It
Garnish with chopped chives for a fresh, festive look. Serve warm or at room temperature on a tiered stand for a holiday brunch vibe. Pair with a mimosa or sparkling cider.

15. Baked Brie with Rosemary and Honey

This baked brie with rosemary and honey is a warm, indulgent appetizer that’s perfect for a festive Christmas gathering. The sweet honey and fragrant rosemary pair beautifully with the creamy cheese for a show-stopping centerpiece.

Ingredients

• 1 wheel brie (8 oz)
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 baguette, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Place brie in a small baking dish. Score the top lightly.
3. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with rosemary.
4. Bake for 10–12 minutes until soft and bubbly.
5. Brush baguette slices with olive oil and toast for 8–10 minutes.

How to Serve It
Serve warm with a small knife for spreading. Surround with toasted baguette slices and garnish with extra rosemary for a festive touch. Pair with a sweet white wine or a warm holiday toddy.

16. Antipasto Skewers

These antipasto skewers are a vibrant, no-cook appetizer that’s packed with Italian flavors. Perfect for a Christmas party, they’re easy to assemble and bring a festive mix of colors and textures to the table.

Ingredients

• 24 cherry tomatoes
• 24 mini mozzarella balls
• 24 slices salami, folded
• 24 pitted black olives
• 24 basil leaves
• 24 small skewers

Instructions

1. Thread a tomato, mozzarella ball, folded salami, basil leaf, and olive onto each skewer.
2. Arrange skewers on a platter.
3. Chill for 10 minutes before serving to meld flavors.

How to Serve It
Serve chilled on a festive platter with extra basil for garnish. Drizzle with a touch of olive oil for shine. These pair well with a light Italian wine or a sparkling holiday punch.

17. Sweet Potato Crostini

These sweet potato crostini are a festive, gluten-free appetizer that’s both hearty and elegant. The roasted sweet potato base, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy pecans make them a perfect holiday bite.

Ingredients

• 2 large sweet potatoes, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 4 oz goat cheese
• ¼ cup candied pecans, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
• ½ tsp salt

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Toss sweet potato rounds with olive oil and salt. Arrange on the baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20–25 minutes until tender. Flip halfway.
4. Spread goat cheese on each round. Top with pecans and thyme.
5. Bake for 5 more minutes to warm through.

How to Serve It
Serve warm on a wooden board with extra thyme for garnish. Arrange in a star pattern for a festive look. Pair with a crisp chardonnay or a spiced holiday mocktail.

18. Deviled Eggs with Bacon

These deviled eggs with bacon are a classic appetizer with a smoky twist that’s perfect for Christmas. The creamy filling and crunchy bacon make them a crowd favorite that’s easy to prep ahead.

Ingredients

• 12 large eggs
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp paprika

Instructions

1. Boil eggs for 10 minutes. Cool in ice water, then peel.
2. Halve eggs and scoop yolks into a bowl.
3. Mash yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and paprika.
4. Spoon or pipe filling into egg whites.
5. Top with bacon and chives.

How to Serve It
Serve chilled on a festive platter with a sprinkle of extra paprika for color. Arrange in a circular pattern for a holiday wreath effect. Pair with a light sparkling wine or a refreshing holiday spritzer.

19. Baked Feta with Tomatoes

This baked feta with tomatoes is a warm, vibrant appetizer that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors. It’s an easy, shareable dish that’s perfect for a cozy Christmas gathering with friends and family.

Ingredients

• 8 oz feta cheese block
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
• 1 baguette, sliced

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Place feta in a small baking dish. Surround with tomatoes.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano.
4. Bake for 20–25 minutes until tomatoes burst and feta is soft.
5. Toast baguette slices for 8–10 minutes.

How to Serve It
Serve warm with a spoon for scooping. Garnish with extra oregano for a festive touch. Surround with toasted baguette slices for dipping. Pair with a bold red wine or a holiday sangria.

20. Mini Potato Skins

These mini potato skins are a hearty, comforting appetizer that’s perfect for a festive Christmas party. The crispy potato, cheesy filling, and smoky bacon make them a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredients

• 12 small baby potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Toss potatoes with olive oil and salt. Roast for 25–30 minutes until tender.
3. Cool slightly, halve, and scoop out centers, leaving a thin layer.
4. Fill with cheese and bacon. Bake for 5–7 minutes until cheese melts.
5. Top with a dollop of sour cream and chives.

How to Serve It
Serve warm on a festive platter with extra chives for garnish. Arrange in a tree shape for a holiday vibe. Pair with a cold beer or a spiced holiday cocktail.

21. Cucumber Bites with Herbed Cream Cheese

These cucumber bites are a fresh, light appetizer that’s perfect for balancing heavier holiday dishes. The herbed cream cheese and crisp cucumber make them a refreshing, no-cook option for Christmas gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2 large cucumbers, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• 12 cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ tsp salt

Instructions

1. Mix cream cheese, dill, chives, and salt in a bowl until smooth.
2. Spoon or pipe cream cheese mixture onto each cucumber round.
3. Top each with a cherry tomato half.
4. Chill for 10 minutes before serving.

How to Serve It
Serve chilled on a sleek platter with extra dill for garnish. Arrange in a spiral for a festive look. These pair beautifully with a crisp sauvignon blanc or a light holiday mocktail.

22. Parmesan Crisps

These Parmesan crisps are a simple, crunchy appetizer that’s perfect for a festive Christmas spread. Their nutty, cheesy flavor makes them a versatile addition to any holiday party, and they’re so easy to make.

Ingredients

• 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Mix Parmesan, rosemary, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Spoon 1 tbsp of mixture onto the baking sheet, forming small mounds (about 12).
4. Flatten slightly and bake for 5–7 minutes until golden and crisp.
5. Cool completely before transferring to a platter.

How to Serve It
Serve at room temperature in a festive basket for easy grabbing. Pair with a cheese board or charcuterie for a holiday spread. These crisps go well with a bold red wine or a sparkling holiday drink.

23. Mini Crab Cakes

These mini crab cakes are a luxurious, bite-sized appetizer that’s perfect for a special Christmas gathering. The tender crab and zesty remoulade make them a flavorful treat that guests will love.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lump crab meat
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Mix crab, breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, mustard, parsley, and Old Bay in a bowl.
2. Form into 24 small patties.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side until golden.
5. Drain on paper towels.

How to Serve It
Serve warm with a dollop of remoulade sauce on each cake. Garnish with parsley for a festive touch. Arrange on a tiered stand for a holiday vibe. Pair with a crisp chardonnay or a light holiday cocktail.

24. Roasted Garlic and Herb Flatbread

This roasted garlic and herb flatbread is a warm, aromatic appetizer that’s perfect for a cozy Christmas gathering. The sweet garlic and fresh herbs make it a shareable treat that’s easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• 1 store-bought flatbread or pizza dough
• 1 head garlic
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• ½ tsp sea salt

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Slice top off garlic head, drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 30–35 minutes until soft.
3. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl and mix with remaining olive oil.
4. Spread garlic mixture over flatbread. Sprinkle with rosemary, thyme, and salt.
5. Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden. Slice into bite-sized pieces.

How to Serve It
Serve warm on a wooden board with extra herbs for garnish. Cut into small squares for easy sharing. Pair with a robust red wine or a warm holiday mulled wine.

25. Blue Cheese and Pear Tartlets

These blue cheese and pear tartlets are a sophisticated appetizer that balances sweet and tangy flavors. Perfect for a festive Christmas party, they’re easy to assemble and look stunning on the table.

Ingredients

• 12 mini tartlet shells, pre-baked
• 4 oz blue cheese, crumbled
• 1 ripe pear, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup walnuts, chopped
• 2 tbsp honey

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Place tartlet shells on a baking sheet.
3. Fill each shell with blue cheese and top with a pear slice.
4. Bake for 8–10 minutes until cheese is melted.
5. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with walnuts.

How to Serve It
Serve warm or at room temperature on a festive platter. Garnish with extra walnuts for crunch. These tartlets pair beautifully with a sweet dessert wine or a sparkling holiday punch.

26. Olive Tapenade Crostini

This olive tapenade crostini is a bold, savory appetizer that’s perfect for a Mediterranean-inspired Christmas spread. The salty tapenade and crunchy bread make it a quick, flavorful bite for guests.

Ingredients

• 1 baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives
• 1 tbsp capers, drained
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 garlic clove
• ¼ cup crumbled feta
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Toast baguette slices for 8–10 minutes until golden.
2. Blend olives, capers, olive oil, and garlic in a food processor until smooth.
3. Spread tapenade on each toast.
4. Sprinkle with feta and parsley.

How to Serve It
Serve at room temperature on a festive platter with extra parsley for garnish. Arrange in a fan pattern for a holiday vibe. Pair with a dry white wine or a light holiday spritzer.

27. Chocolate-Dipped Fruit Skewers

These chocolate-dipped fruit skewers are a sweet, festive appetizer that doubles as a light dessert for Christmas gatherings. The vibrant fruit and rich chocolate make them a fun, colorful addition to the table.

Ingredients

• 12 strawberries
• 12 pineapple chunks
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips, melted
• 12 fresh mint leaves
• 12 small skewers

Instructions

1. Dip each strawberry and pineapple chunk halfway into melted chocolate.
2. Place on parchment paper and chill for 10 minutes to set.
3. Thread a strawberry, mint leaf, and pineapple chunk onto each skewer.
4. Chill until ready to serve.

How to Serve It
Serve chilled on a festive platter with extra mint for garnish. Drizzle with a little extra chocolate for a decadent touch. These pair well with a sparkling rosé or a holiday hot chocolate.

Conclusion
These 27 Christmas appetizers are sure to bring joy and flavor to your holiday table! Whether you’re hosting a big party or a cozy gathering, these recipes are easy to make and packed with festive spirit. Try a few, save this list for later, or share it with friends to spread the holiday cheer. Happy hosting!