Its not a proper holiday party without lots of tasty food to serve your guests. Appetizers and finger foods are always a hit at Christmas parties because they are easy and convenient to prepare and serve.
An appetizer is a small dish eaten before a meal. The word "appetizer" comes from the Latin word "appetitus," which means "desire." Appetizers are designed to whet and stimulate the appetite.
The majority of the time, they are served cold or at room temperature. Common appetizers include dips, spreads, salads, canapés, finger foods, and hors d’oeuvres. Appetizers are often served with drinks and can be either savory or sweet.
In fine dining establishments, appetizers are often referred to as “amuse-bouches.” These bite-sized dishes are designed to tantalize the taste buds and prepare the stomach for the main course.
12 Best Appetizers For Christmas Your Christmas Party
Below we have compiled a list of the twelve best cocktail appetizers for the Christmas party; carry on reading.
1. Cranberry Brie Bites
What's not to love about this holiday favorite?
Flaky puff pastry is wrapped around creamy brie and tart cranberries, then baked to perfection. Watch them disappear as you serve them warm with some honey for dipping! Check out My Baking Addiction for the full recipe.
2. Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
You can’t go wrong with this classic combo of salty prosciutto and fresh asparagus. These bites are simple to make and are always crowd-pleasers. Plus, they’re elegant enough for even the fanciest of occasions! Visit Fifteen Spatulas to learn how to make them.
3. Cranberry Glazed Meatballs
These festive meatballs get their sweetness from a cranberry glaze and their flavor from a blend of ginger, rosemary, and sage. They’re perfect for serving at your next holiday gathering! David Leboviz has the full recipe.
4. Christmas Tree Cheese Platter
This beautiful cheese platter is tasty AND decorative! Arrange your favorite cheeses, meats, fruits, and nuts on a platter in the shape of a Christmas tree. It will undoubtedly serve as the focus of your gathering. See Ain’t Too Proud To Meg for the full recipe.
5. Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
This holiday twist on traditional hummus is perfect for vegans and vegetarians (and anyone who loves roasted red peppers)! Pita chips or sliced vegetables are good for dipping. Visit Downshiftology for the full recipe.
6. Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Trees
These chocolate-covered strawberry trees are as fun to make as they are to eat! Simply dip strawberries in melted chocolate, then decorate them with sprinkles or whatever else you like.
They make for a festive and delicious dessert! Check out The Girl Inspired for the
7 . Shrimp Cocktail Appetizers
Nothing says "holiday" like a shrimp cocktail! These tiny bites are not only tasty but also incredibly simple to prepare. Simply peel and cook your shrimp, then Mound them on small rounds of cucumber or avocado. To complete the dish, add a dollop of cocktail sauce. Check out Natasha’s Kitchen for the recipe.
We also recommend you check out the drinking party game.
8 . Smoked Salmon Canapes
These crowd-pleasing canapes are as easy as they are delicious. Start with a base of cream cheese, then top with a slice of smoked salmon and a sprinkle of freshly chopped dill.
For an extra festive touch, use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut the salmon into holiday shapes before topping it with cream cheese. Visit Hint of Healthy for the recipe.
9 . Mini Quiches
These bite-sized morsels are packed with flavor and can be made to suit any dietary restrictions. There are many other fillings that can be used to make mini quiches, such as spinach and feta, bacon and cheddar, and mushroom and Gruyere.
Additionally, they are rather simple to prepare in advance, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and enjoy the party more. See Dinner At The Zoo for the full recipe.
10 . Crab Cakes
Crab cakes are a classic appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. Made with fresh crab meat, they are usually pan-fried or baked and served with a variety of dipping sauces.
Although they can also be the main course, crab cakes are typically served as hors d'oeuvres.
Regardless of how you serve them, crab cakes are sure to be a hit with your guests! See Sally’s Baking Addiction for the full tutorial.
11 . Baked Brie
At gatherings, guests adore this traditional appetizer. Simply place a wheel of brie cheese in the oven to bake until it's soft and gooey, then top it with your favorite fruit preserves.
However, feel free to get inventive and use whatever you have on hand. We particularly like raspberry or apricot preserves.
For cranberry Christmas cheer, serve it alongside crackers or baguette slices. Check out The Mediterranean Dish to learn how to make it.
12 . Chicken Satay Skewers
Chicken satay is always a hit at parties, but it can be tough to eat while mingling. Solution? Serve it on skewers! This finger-friendly appetizer is perfect for busy hosts who want to enjoy the party instead of being stuck in the kitchen all night.
Simply marinate chicken breast strips in your favorite satay sauce, thread them onto skewers, and grill (or broil) until cooked through. Serve with dipping sauces on the side, and watch 'em disappear! Visit The Wicked Noodle to learn how to make them.
Conclusion
Appetizers are a necessary part of any cocktail party. They provide your guests with something to eat while they mingle and await the serving of dinner.
Try one of these recipes if you're looking for festive and classic holiday appetizers to serve at your next Christmas cocktail party. Everyone will enjoy something on this list, from savory to sweet.
So set out a plate (or six!) of these easy-to-make appetizers at your next holiday gathering and enjoy yourself while impressing your guests! Happy Holidays!