32 Easy Holiday Appetizers – Rachel Cooks®

Deck the halls with these festive and deliciously easy holiday appetizers!  Perfect for any occasion, there’s something for everybody here!

Holiday recipe round up with text and photos.

 

Whether it’s a cocktail party, family get-together, impromptu neighborhood gathering, or formal dinner, all of these fun holiday occasions usually include appetizers.

Maybe you’re hosting the party or maybe you’ve volunteered to bring an appetizer to a party. At this busy time of year, you want a holiday appetizer that’s a little festive, awesomely delicious, and not too time-consuming to make. 

Are you scrambling to find the best recipes for easy-yet-sort-of-fancy finger foods that are crowd pleasers? Make this collection of easy holiday appetizer recipes a go-to source whether you’re looking for make-ahead appetizers or easy last minute appetizers. Be sure to take a look at my complete list of appetizers and snacks, too.

If you’re looking something to sip with your appetizers, I’ve got you covered, too! Check out my list of favorite cocktail recipes.

These holiday appetizer recipes are perfect for any special occasion. And the best part? None of the recipes will have you slaving away in the kitchen for hours! 

Favorite Classic appetizers

I’m sure you’ll recognize a few of the appetizers as long time favorites!

Baked Brie Recipe with Cranberries and Bourbon Pecans

This baked Brie recipe with cranberry sauce and bourbon candied pecans may become your new favorite holiday appetizer recipe! It’s elegant but simple.

Check out this recipe

Overhead view of baked brie topped with cranberries and pecans.
Spinach Dip (from scratch or with seasoning mix)

Creamy spinach dip is always a hit as a holiday appetizer, served in a bread bowl or with crisp crackers. It’s easy to make!

Check out this recipe

Spinach dip in a bread bowl.
Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts

Bacon wrapped water chestnuts are a simple but elegant appetizer. Watch them disappear at your next party!

Check out this recipe

Close up of a water chestnut that is wrapped in bacon and covered in sauce.
Pickle Roll Ups with Ham (Pinwheels)

Easy to make and popular with everyone, pickle roll ups (pinwheels) are a fail-proof, always-a-win appetizer recipe.

Check out this recipe

Pickle roll ups with ham on a black background.
7 Layer Dip Recipe – THE BEST!

This isn’t your ordinary 7 layer dip recipe – it has a couple unique layers that make it really stand out from the crowd. This easy appetizer is popular all year round. 

Check out this recipe

Straight on image of 7 layer dip to show layers in glass dish.
Crockpot Meatballs with Cherry Bourbon Sauce

These easy crockpot meatballs require only 5 ingredients and are always a hit. Let your slow cooker do the work for this holiday appetizer.

Check out this recipe

Image of crockpot meatballs with cherry bourbon sauce. Meatballs in slow cooker with wooden spoon, overhead shot.

Healthier appetizers

I’ve also included appetizer recipes with which you may already be familiar but I make them a bit healthier.

Vegetable Cream Cheese Roll Ups

Vegetable cream cheese roll ups are full of crisp vegetables, flavorful herbs, and smooth cream cheese. Make them with thinly sliced red pepper and cucumber for a festive Christmas appetizer.

Check out this recipe

These vegetable cream cheese roll ups are full of crisp vegetables, flavorful herbs, and smooth cream cheese. They make a great lunch or snack thanks to extra protein in the wrap! Get the easy recipe on RachelCooks.com!
Spinach Balls (oven or air fryer)

Spinach balls are packed with nutritious spinach and are an easy holiday appetizer. Make them ahead and freeze them!

Check out this recipe

Spinach balls, one with a bite taken out of it.
Homemade French Onion Dip

Homemade French onion dip is made with Greek yogurt and homemade seasoning for a healthier version of this popular dip. Dress it up with caramelized onions!

Check out this recipe

image of homemade french onion dip surrounded by chips
Zucchini Pizza Bites

Zucchini pizza bites are a low carb pizza appetizer thanks to a zucchini “crust.” This simple appetizer recipe is surprisingly good, with lots of festive color.

Check out this recipe

Zucchini pizza bites with basil.

Cheesy Dips

Jalapeño Popper Dip

Everyone raves about warm jalapeño popper dip! This melty cheese dip is so good with tortilla chips, crackers, or crudités.

Check out this recipe

Jalapeño popper dip on a cracker.
Crab Rangoon Dip

You have to try this unbelievably good crab rangoon dip! We like to serve this appetizer with easy homemade wonton chips and sweet chili sauce.

Check out this recipe

Crispy wonton triangle being dipped into crab and cheese dip.
Baked Goat Cheese Dip

Perfect with crackers, crostini, or naan, creamy baked goat cheese dip is hard to resist. It’s a wonderful appetizer that’s always a hit!

Check out this recipe

Overhead view of a small black pan with goat cheese dip, sprinkled with fresh thyme.
Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Dip

Creamy and delicious, crockpot spinach artichoke dip is so easy to make, great with a variety of dippers, and always a hit at parties. It can  be baked in the oven if you prefer.

Check out this recipe

Close up of spinach artichoke dip.
Mexican Spinach Dip

Surprise party guests with this fun and festive take on spinach dip. Mexican spinach dip may become a new favorite appetizer!

Check out this recipe

Mexican spinach dip in orange cast iron skillet surrounded by tortilla chips.
Hot Caprese Dip

With melty cheese and fresh tomatoes, hot caprese dip recipe is a winning appetizer. Fresh basil and roasted cherry tomatoes are decorative and so, so scrumptious.

Check out this recipe

Piece of bread dipping into melted cheese and warm tomatoes.

Creamy Sweet Dips

Hot Chocolate Dip

Fluffy and sweet, hot chocolate dip will be a hit at your next party – all the flavors of hot cocoa in an irresistible cool dip! Serve it with Oreos, chocolate chip cookies, or graham crackers.

Check out this recipe

Overhead view of a sprinkle lined bowl filled with hot chocolate dip, topped with marshmallows and chocolate chips.
Cream Cheese Fruit Dip

Light and tangy cream cheese fruit dip is a popular holiday appetizer recipe, with only 4 ingredients. Pair it with colorful seasonal fruit!

Check out this recipe

Cream cheese fruit dip surrounded by fresh fruit.
Tiramisu Dip

With all the great taste of tiramisu, but in an easy, fun, dippable format, rich velvety tiramisu dip is sure to be an instant holiday favorite!

Check out this recipe

With all the great taste of tiramisu, but in an easy, fun, dip-able format, this tiramisu dip is going to become an instant party favorite! Get the easy dessert recipe on RachelCooks.com!
Cherry Cheesecake Dip

Celebrate the season with brilliantly colored cherry cheesecake dip. It’s creamy, sweet, and easy to make. Serve it with pretzel thins or shortbread cookies.

Check out this recipe

This cherry cheesecake dip with lime is going to become a party favorite. It takes only minutes to make and has fresh and bright flavors thanks to lime juice and zest. Get the easy no-bake dessert recipe on RachelCooks.com! This sweet dip is going to go into regular rotation.

Crostini and Bruschetta

Roasted Tomato and Ricotta Crostini Recipe

Roasted tomato and ricotta cheese crostini, drizzled with rich balsamic vinegar, is a classic appetizer. Everyone loves these and they’re super easy to make!

Check out this recipe

Overhead closeup of single crostini with balsamic glaze.
Creamy Pea Crostini with Pancetta

Beautiful “matcha green” creamy pea puree spread on crisp crostini, sprinkled with bits of pancetta and shredded Parmesan cheese, and flavored with mint, chives, and lemon, these pea crostini appetizers are unforgettable.

Check out this recipe

Image of creamy pea puree spread on crispy bread slices, topped with pancetta and parmesan.
Butternut Squash Crostini with Ricotta

These butternut squash crostini appetizers elevate this humble fall gourd to super star status! A beautiful holiday appetizer!

Check out this recipe

Image of butternut squash crostini topped with pomegranate and pepitas.
Beet Bruschetta with Orange Tarragon Goat Cheese

Imagine ruby red beets and tangy goat cheese, flavored with orange zest and fresh tarragon, layered on crispy slices of toasted bread and sprinkled with walnuts. Beet bruschetta with orange tarragon goat cheese are irresistible!

Check out this recipe

overhead photograph of beets and goat cheese on crostini
Creamy Kale Bruschetta

Reminiscent of spinach dip, creamy kale bruschetta will knock your socks off. Crisp bread topped with warm, creamy sauteéd kale, enhanced by a hint of garlic and nutmeg, make this appetizer distinctively delicious.

Check out this recipe

Image of creamy kale bruschetta, aka crostini
Classic Bruschetta Recipe

A classic Italian antipasto made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil, this tomato bruschetta appetizer recipe is bright and delicious, and super easy to make.

Check out this recipe

Image of the best tomato bruschetta recipe in a bowl served with crostini.
Wild Mushroom Crostini with Goat Cheese

Bursting with earthy flavor, mushroom crostini are a delightful appetizer your guests will clamor for. You’ll love how easy they are to prepare!

Check out this recipe

image of wild mushroom crostini with goat cheese, garnished with fresh parsley. Arranged with multiple crostini
Roasted Grape Crostini with Ricotta and Honey

Your guests will love this crostini appetizer. Simple to make and so delicious and unique. Perfect warm or at room temperature.

Check out this recipe

Image of roasted grape crostini on a black slate board, topped with ricotta, roasted grapes, and a drizzle of honey.

Particularly addicting apps

You won’t want to make these too far in advance or you’ll find that they’ve disappeared before the guests arrive!

Spiced Pecans

These spiced pecans have everything you want in a spiced nut. They are sweet, crunchy, spicy, and unbelievably addicting.

Check out this recipe

Spiced pecans on a white background.
Candied Bacon Recipe

Candied bacon, “pig candy”, bacon candy, pork candy, call it what you will, this irresistible treat will have everyone calling for more! This candied bacon recipe is easy to whip up and is a favorite holiday appetizer.

Check out this recipe

Candied bacon,
Stuffed Pizza Bites with Garlic Butter

These cheesy stuffed pizza bites are guaranteed to be a hit! They’re brushed with garlic butter and paired with marinara for dipping, making them extra delicious.

Check out this recipe

Stuffed pizza bite being dipped into marinara sauce.
Puppy Chow Recipe (Muddy Buddies)

This puppy chow recipe will quickly become a favorite. It’s easy to make and everyone loves it!

Check out this recipe

Large bowl of puppy chow, coated in powdered sugar. Blue and white linen present.


#Easy #Holiday #Appetizers #Rachel #Cooks

Deck the halls with these festive and deliciously easy holiday appetizers!  Perfect for any occasion, there’s something for everybody here!

Holiday recipe round up with text and photos.

 

Whether it’s a cocktail party, family get-together, impromptu neighborhood gathering, or formal dinner, all of these fun holiday occasions usually include appetizers.

Maybe you’re hosting the party or maybe you’ve volunteered to bring an appetizer to a party. At this busy time of year, you want a holiday appetizer that’s a little festive, awesomely delicious, and not too time-consuming to make. 

Are you scrambling to find the best recipes for easy-yet-sort-of-fancy finger foods that are crowd pleasers? Make this collection of easy holiday appetizer recipes a go-to source whether you’re looking for make-ahead appetizers or easy last minute appetizers. Be sure to take a look at my complete list of appetizers and snacks, too.

If you’re looking something to sip with your appetizers, I’ve got you covered, too! Check out my list of favorite cocktail recipes.

These holiday appetizer recipes are perfect for any special occasion. And the best part? None of the recipes will have you slaving away in the kitchen for hours! 

Favorite Classic appetizers

I’m sure you’ll recognize a few of the appetizers as long time favorites!

Baked Brie Recipe with Cranberries and Bourbon Pecans

This baked Brie recipe with cranberry sauce and bourbon candied pecans may become your new favorite holiday appetizer recipe! It’s elegant but simple.

Check out this recipe

Overhead view of baked brie topped with cranberries and pecans.
Spinach Dip (from scratch or with seasoning mix)

Creamy spinach dip is always a hit as a holiday appetizer, served in a bread bowl or with crisp crackers. It’s easy to make!

Check out this recipe

Spinach dip in a bread bowl.
Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts

Bacon wrapped water chestnuts are a simple but elegant appetizer. Watch them disappear at your next party!

Check out this recipe

Close up of a water chestnut that is wrapped in bacon and covered in sauce.
Pickle Roll Ups with Ham (Pinwheels)

Easy to make and popular with everyone, pickle roll ups (pinwheels) are a fail-proof, always-a-win appetizer recipe.

Check out this recipe

Pickle roll ups with ham on a black background.
7 Layer Dip Recipe – THE BEST!

This isn’t your ordinary 7 layer dip recipe – it has a couple unique layers that make it really stand out from the crowd. This easy appetizer is popular all year round. 

Check out this recipe

Straight on image of 7 layer dip to show layers in glass dish.
Crockpot Meatballs with Cherry Bourbon Sauce

These easy crockpot meatballs require only 5 ingredients and are always a hit. Let your slow cooker do the work for this holiday appetizer.

Check out this recipe

Image of crockpot meatballs with cherry bourbon sauce. Meatballs in slow cooker with wooden spoon, overhead shot.

Healthier appetizers

I’ve also included appetizer recipes with which you may already be familiar but I make them a bit healthier.

Vegetable Cream Cheese Roll Ups

Vegetable cream cheese roll ups are full of crisp vegetables, flavorful herbs, and smooth cream cheese. Make them with thinly sliced red pepper and cucumber for a festive Christmas appetizer.

Check out this recipe

These vegetable cream cheese roll ups are full of crisp vegetables, flavorful herbs, and smooth cream cheese. They make a great lunch or snack thanks to extra protein in the wrap! Get the easy recipe on RachelCooks.com!
Spinach Balls (oven or air fryer)

Spinach balls are packed with nutritious spinach and are an easy holiday appetizer. Make them ahead and freeze them!

Check out this recipe

Spinach balls, one with a bite taken out of it.
Homemade French Onion Dip

Homemade French onion dip is made with Greek yogurt and homemade seasoning for a healthier version of this popular dip. Dress it up with caramelized onions!

Check out this recipe

image of homemade french onion dip surrounded by chips
Zucchini Pizza Bites

Zucchini pizza bites are a low carb pizza appetizer thanks to a zucchini “crust.” This simple appetizer recipe is surprisingly good, with lots of festive color.

Check out this recipe

Zucchini pizza bites with basil.

Cheesy Dips

Jalapeño Popper Dip

Everyone raves about warm jalapeño popper dip! This melty cheese dip is so good with tortilla chips, crackers, or crudités.

Check out this recipe

Jalapeño popper dip on a cracker.
Crab Rangoon Dip

You have to try this unbelievably good crab rangoon dip! We like to serve this appetizer with easy homemade wonton chips and sweet chili sauce.

Check out this recipe

Crispy wonton triangle being dipped into crab and cheese dip.
Baked Goat Cheese Dip

Perfect with crackers, crostini, or naan, creamy baked goat cheese dip is hard to resist. It’s a wonderful appetizer that’s always a hit!

Check out this recipe

Overhead view of a small black pan with goat cheese dip, sprinkled with fresh thyme.
Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Dip

Creamy and delicious, crockpot spinach artichoke dip is so easy to make, great with a variety of dippers, and always a hit at parties. It can  be baked in the oven if you prefer.

Check out this recipe

Close up of spinach artichoke dip.
Mexican Spinach Dip

Surprise party guests with this fun and festive take on spinach dip. Mexican spinach dip may become a new favorite appetizer!

Check out this recipe

Mexican spinach dip in orange cast iron skillet surrounded by tortilla chips.
Hot Caprese Dip

With melty cheese and fresh tomatoes, hot caprese dip recipe is a winning appetizer. Fresh basil and roasted cherry tomatoes are decorative and so, so scrumptious.

Check out this recipe

Piece of bread dipping into melted cheese and warm tomatoes.

Creamy Sweet Dips

Hot Chocolate Dip

Fluffy and sweet, hot chocolate dip will be a hit at your next party – all the flavors of hot cocoa in an irresistible cool dip! Serve it with Oreos, chocolate chip cookies, or graham crackers.

Check out this recipe

Overhead view of a sprinkle lined bowl filled with hot chocolate dip, topped with marshmallows and chocolate chips.
Cream Cheese Fruit Dip

Light and tangy cream cheese fruit dip is a popular holiday appetizer recipe, with only 4 ingredients. Pair it with colorful seasonal fruit!

Check out this recipe

Cream cheese fruit dip surrounded by fresh fruit.
Tiramisu Dip

With all the great taste of tiramisu, but in an easy, fun, dippable format, rich velvety tiramisu dip is sure to be an instant holiday favorite!

Check out this recipe

With all the great taste of tiramisu, but in an easy, fun, dip-able format, this tiramisu dip is going to become an instant party favorite! Get the easy dessert recipe on RachelCooks.com!
Cherry Cheesecake Dip

Celebrate the season with brilliantly colored cherry cheesecake dip. It’s creamy, sweet, and easy to make. Serve it with pretzel thins or shortbread cookies.

Check out this recipe

This cherry cheesecake dip with lime is going to become a party favorite. It takes only minutes to make and has fresh and bright flavors thanks to lime juice and zest. Get the easy no-bake dessert recipe on RachelCooks.com! This sweet dip is going to go into regular rotation.

Crostini and Bruschetta

Roasted Tomato and Ricotta Crostini Recipe

Roasted tomato and ricotta cheese crostini, drizzled with rich balsamic vinegar, is a classic appetizer. Everyone loves these and they’re super easy to make!

Check out this recipe

Overhead closeup of single crostini with balsamic glaze.
Creamy Pea Crostini with Pancetta

Beautiful “matcha green” creamy pea puree spread on crisp crostini, sprinkled with bits of pancetta and shredded Parmesan cheese, and flavored with mint, chives, and lemon, these pea crostini appetizers are unforgettable.

Check out this recipe

Image of creamy pea puree spread on crispy bread slices, topped with pancetta and parmesan.
Butternut Squash Crostini with Ricotta

These butternut squash crostini appetizers elevate this humble fall gourd to super star status! A beautiful holiday appetizer!

Check out this recipe

Image of butternut squash crostini topped with pomegranate and pepitas.
Beet Bruschetta with Orange Tarragon Goat Cheese

Imagine ruby red beets and tangy goat cheese, flavored with orange zest and fresh tarragon, layered on crispy slices of toasted bread and sprinkled with walnuts. Beet bruschetta with orange tarragon goat cheese are irresistible!

Check out this recipe

overhead photograph of beets and goat cheese on crostini
Creamy Kale Bruschetta

Reminiscent of spinach dip, creamy kale bruschetta will knock your socks off. Crisp bread topped with warm, creamy sauteéd kale, enhanced by a hint of garlic and nutmeg, make this appetizer distinctively delicious.

Check out this recipe

Image of creamy kale bruschetta, aka crostini
Classic Bruschetta Recipe

A classic Italian antipasto made with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil, this tomato bruschetta appetizer recipe is bright and delicious, and super easy to make.

Check out this recipe

Image of the best tomato bruschetta recipe in a bowl served with crostini.
Wild Mushroom Crostini with Goat Cheese

Bursting with earthy flavor, mushroom crostini are a delightful appetizer your guests will clamor for. You’ll love how easy they are to prepare!

Check out this recipe

image of wild mushroom crostini with goat cheese, garnished with fresh parsley. Arranged with multiple crostini
Roasted Grape Crostini with Ricotta and Honey

Your guests will love this crostini appetizer. Simple to make and so delicious and unique. Perfect warm or at room temperature.

Check out this recipe

Image of roasted grape crostini on a black slate board, topped with ricotta, roasted grapes, and a drizzle of honey.

Particularly addicting apps

You won’t want to make these too far in advance or you’ll find that they’ve disappeared before the guests arrive!

Spiced Pecans

These spiced pecans have everything you want in a spiced nut. They are sweet, crunchy, spicy, and unbelievably addicting.

Check out this recipe

Spiced pecans on a white background.
Candied Bacon Recipe

Candied bacon, “pig candy”, bacon candy, pork candy, call it what you will, this irresistible treat will have everyone calling for more! This candied bacon recipe is easy to whip up and is a favorite holiday appetizer.

Check out this recipe

Candied bacon,
Stuffed Pizza Bites with Garlic Butter

These cheesy stuffed pizza bites are guaranteed to be a hit! They’re brushed with garlic butter and paired with marinara for dipping, making them extra delicious.

Check out this recipe

Stuffed pizza bite being dipped into marinara sauce.
Puppy Chow Recipe (Muddy Buddies)

This puppy chow recipe will quickly become a favorite. It’s easy to make and everyone loves it!

Check out this recipe

Large bowl of puppy chow, coated in powdered sugar. Blue and white linen present.


, 32 Easy Holiday Appetizers – Rachel Cooks®

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