If you enjoy throwing a holiday party every now and then, you know how exciting the planning can be. But between creating a cocktail menu and dreaming up a stellar holiday dessert spread, you need to decide how you’re going to sate your guests’ hunger. Sure, you could go the easy route and order pizzas, but how much fun is that? The good news is that you can get creative without too much hassle. People love an assortment of appetizers, and these 17 snacks will get your wheels turning.
1. Vegan Walnut, Sage and Cranberry Stuffed Holiday Mushrooms: Mushrooms were meant to be stuffed — and when you pop one of these tasty morsels into your mouth, you’ll agree. The nutty, herbaceous and slightly sweet filling creates a palate pleaser that will WOW your friends. (via Blissful Basil)
2. Cranberry and Brie Bites: These little flavor bombs are the perfect snack for your holiday entertaining. Puff pastry is topped with melted Brie, cranberry sauce and fresh thyme, making it a virtual guarantee that they’ll be polished off in no time. (via Kitchen Sanctuary)
3. Mexican Shrimp Cocktail: Shrimp cocktail is always a hit — especially when you serve it in a fancy glass! These shrimp are served with a zesty cocktail sauce and, to add that Mexican flair, they’re topped with a refreshing tomato and avocado relish. (via Dinner at the Zoo)
4. Cheesy Artichoke Dip: A party just isn’t a party without a melty and cheesy dip. This ooey gooey mixture is packed with plump artichokes and topped with toasty breadcrumbs for a little extra indulgence. (via What’s Gaby Cooking?)
5. Sage and Gouda Vegan Cheeseball: This is not your average cheeseball. Sage and vegan Gouda bring warm and comforting flavors to this snack, while craisins offer up a hint of sweet. Even the non-vegans will have a hard time walking away. (via Namely Marly)
6. Christmas Tree Pull-Apart: This adorable pull-apart bread is as festive as it gets. Each garlicky knot is stuffed with stretchy mozzarella and makes this treat addicting AF. (via Eclectic Everyday)
7. Bacon-Wrapped Prunes With Herbed Feta Dip: Bacon-wrapped anything is always destined to grab everyone’s attention, but this unique snack is going above and beyond. Filled with peppery and toasted almonds, these juicy prunes will be the talk of the party. (via Use Your Noodles)
8. Smoked Salmon Canapé: When it comes to class and sophistication, it’s hard to beat nosh that’s adorned with smoked salmon. Despite their lavish appearance, these beautiful bites are super easy to make. (via What to Cook Today)
9. Baked Brie and Bacon Jam Phyllo Cups: These heavenly little cups will leave you speechless. Melted Brie and jam are hard to resist to begin with — but when that jam is made out of bacon, all seems right in the world. (via Wry Toast)
10. Crispy Caprese Meatballs Stuffed With Mozzarella: We understand that people share a deep love for crock pots full of Swedish meatballs, but these babies take the cake. Stuffed with gooey mozzarella, these meatballs will totally become a holiday tradition. (via The Cozy Apron)
11. Loaded Hummus: If you’re looking for a dip that isn’t heavy on the cheese and grease, this dazzling hummus has you covered. It’s light, airy and topped with tons of yummy goodies, including pomegranate and fresh parsley to keep things festive. (via What’s Gabby Cooking?)
12. Easy Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers: Entertaining throughout the holidays is fun — but it can also be a lot of work. These flaky, cheesy and spicy poppers are the perfect go-to app when you want big flavor but are short on time. (via The Blond Cook)
13. Bacon-Wrapped Scallops With Cajun Cream Sauce: The bacon-wrapped scallop is everyone’s fave upscale hors d’oeuvre. Though they’re delicious all on their own, this amuse-bouche is kicked up with a creamy and dreamy Cajun sauce. (via Cooks With Cocktails)
14. Spiced Party Nuts: Everyone loves a convenient snack to pick at while they mingle, and these spiced nuts are the cat’s pajamas. Tossed with chipotle powder, cayenne and brown sugar, this snack is a dream for those who love a little heat with their sweet. (via Superman Cooks)
15. Chinese Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Egg Rolls With Sweet Chile Pomegranate Sauce: Who doesn’t love biting into a crispy egg roll? These swoon-worthy bites will surely WOW your guests with their tender and flavorful filling. (via Half Baked Harvest)
16. Fried Mozzarella Balls With Pumpkin, Sage and Caramelized Onion: If these delectable mozza balls don’t give you comfort, nothing will. Loaded with pumpkin, sage and stretchy mozzarella, these goodies are served with a yogurt sauce for dipping. (via Vintage Kitty)
17. Mini Mushroom Tarts With Goat Cheese Mousse and Balsamic: These easy and delicious apps will have you choosing savory tarts over sweet for a long time. Earthy mushrooms are stuffed into a crusty shell, then topped with a tangy goat cheese mousse that will have your guests raving. (via The Charming Detroiter)
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