11 Easy December Appetizers That Look Festive Without the Work
Looking for delicious appetizers that are both easy to make and perfect for the holiday season? Whether you’re hosting a last-minute gathering or want to add a festive touch to your table, these appetizers offer great flavors without the hassle. From creamy dips to savory bites, these simple yet elegant options will impress your guests and fit perfectly into your holiday spread. Each dish combines vibrant ingredients and festive flair, making them the ideal choice for any occasion.
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Smoked Salmon Crostini
Smoked Salmon Crostini is a light, flavorful, and elegant appetizer that’s perfect for the holiday season. To make this, you will need 1 baguette (sliced into thin rounds), 4 oz of smoked salmon (sliced), 8 oz of cream cheese (softened), 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of fresh dill (chopped), and capers for garnish. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are lightly toasted. In a bowl, mix the cream cheese with lemon juice and dill until smooth. Spread the cream cheese mixture on each crostini, then top with a slice of smoked salmon. Garnish with capers and a sprig of dill for an extra festive touch.
The combination of the smooth cream cheese, tangy lemon, and smoky salmon creates a beautiful balance of flavors that is perfect for any occasion. The crostini add a nice crunch, and the dill and capers give the dish a lovely burst of freshness. This appetizer is quick to assemble and looks impressive when served on a holiday platter. You can prepare the cream cheese spread ahead of time, and the crostini can be baked just before serving, making this dish easy to prepare even on a busy day.
Caprese Skewers
Caprese Skewers are a fresh, vibrant appetizer that is as visually stunning as it is easy to prepare, perfect for any holiday spread. To make these skewers, you’ll need 1 pint of cherry tomatoes, 1 pack of fresh mozzarella balls (about 8 oz), 1 bunch of fresh basil leaves, and 1/4 cup of balsamic glaze. Start by threading a cherry tomato, a basil leaf, and a mozzarella ball onto small skewers or toothpicks. Arrange the skewers neatly on a serving platter, making sure the colors are balanced and the ingredients are evenly distributed. Drizzle the skewers with balsamic glaze right before serving to add a touch of sweetness and depth to the flavors. The bright red tomatoes, green basil, and white mozzarella create a festive look that is perfect for the holiday season.
This appetizer requires minimal preparation, and since it doesn’t require cooking, it’s a great option for busy hosts. The combination of fresh, crisp tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic basil is a classic that never goes out of style. The balsamic glaze brings a sweet contrast to the savory flavors, making the skewers not only delicious but also a striking visual addition to your holiday table. Caprese Skewers are a hit with guests of all ages, offering a light and refreshing alternative to heavier holiday foods. They can be made in minutes and assembled just before guests arrive, ensuring they are served fresh and vibrant.
Pigs in a Blanket
Pigs in a Blanket are a classic, crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines savory mini sausages wrapped in buttery, flaky crescent roll dough. For this easy dish, you will need 1 can of crescent roll dough (8 oz), 12 cocktail sausages, and optional mustard or honey for dipping. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the crescent dough and cut it into small triangles. Place one cocktail sausage at the wide end of each triangle and roll it up, ensuring the sausage is fully wrapped in dough. Arrange the rolled sausages on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown.
These little bites are incredibly easy to make and are perfect for holiday parties where you need something quick and tasty. The buttery, flaky dough paired with the savory sausage creates a warm and comforting bite-sized treat. To add an extra touch of flavor, you can sprinkle the tops of the dough with sesame seeds or poppy seeds before baking. Serve the pigs in a blanket with a variety of dipping sauces, such as mustard or honey, to enhance the flavor. The golden, crisp exterior and the warm sausage inside make this dish a simple but festive favorite that’s sure to disappear quickly at any holiday gathering.
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Spinach and Artichoke Dip is a rich, creamy appetizer that looks elegant and is perfect for dipping. For this easy version, you will need 1 cup of frozen chopped spinach (thawed and drained), 1 can of artichoke hearts (drained and chopped), 8 oz of cream cheese (softened), 1/2 cup of sour cream, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1 clove of garlic (minced), and salt and pepper to taste. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the spinach, artichokes, cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, then transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the dip is bubbling and golden on top.
This dip is creamy and cheesy, with the spinach and artichokes adding a savory, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with crackers, pita chips, or even fresh vegetables. The golden, bubbly top makes it look incredibly inviting, and the rich, velvety texture is comforting on cold winter nights. Spinach and Artichoke Dip is easy to prepare in advance and can be stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. This makes it a great choice for holiday entertaining, as it requires minimal effort while still delivering big on flavor and visual appeal. Its creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it a guaranteed hit with guests of all ages.
Stuffed Mushrooms
Stuffed Mushrooms are a festive and flavorful appetizer that combines earthy mushrooms with a creamy, savory filling. For this dish, you will need 16 large white mushrooms (stems removed), 4 oz of cream cheese (softened), 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs, 2 cloves of garlic (minced), 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley (chopped), and salt and pepper to taste. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the mushroom stems, cream cheese, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stuff the mushroom caps with the mixture, pressing gently to ensure they are well-filled. Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
These stuffed mushrooms are a classic holiday appetizer that looks sophisticated while being easy to prepare. The combination of the earthy mushroom cap with the creamy, savory filling makes them both hearty and flavorful. The Parmesan and garlic create a rich, aromatic base, while the breadcrumbs give the dish a nice texture. These mushrooms can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving, ensuring that they’re fresh and hot when guests arrive. The golden-brown topping makes these mushrooms look especially festive, and their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for a holiday party spread.
Cheese and Charcuterie Board
A Cheese and Charcuterie Board is a simple yet stunning way to offer a variety of flavors that look impressive without requiring much effort. For a festive board, you will need 3-4 types of cheese (cheddar, brie, goat cheese, blue cheese), 1-2 types of cured meats (prosciutto, salami, chorizo), 1 cup of mixed olives, 1/2 cup of nuts (almonds, walnuts, or cashews), fresh fruits (grapes, figs, apple slices), and crackers or baguette slices. Arrange the cheeses, meats, fruits, nuts, and olives in a visually appealing way on a large wooden board or platter. The cheeses can be cut into wedges, slices, or cubes for easy serving, and the meats can be folded or rolled into small bundles. Add the fruits and nuts in between to create a colorful and festive presentation.
This appetizer is incredibly versatile and can be tailored to suit the tastes of your guests. The key to a great cheese and charcuterie board is variety; offering different textures and flavors will ensure that there’s something for everyone. The contrasting colors of the cheeses, meats, and fruits create an eye-catching spread that feels special for the holidays. You can add a drizzle of honey or fig jam to elevate the flavors and provide a touch of sweetness. This no-cook appetizer requires little preparation and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other dishes or enjoy time with your guests.
Mini Quiches
Mini quiches are a versatile, bite-sized appetizer that looks elegant while being quick to prepare. For these, you will need 1 package of mini pie crusts (12-count), 4 large eggs, 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or a blend), 1/2 cup of cooked spinach (squeezed dry), 1/4 cup of cooked bacon (crumbled), 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, cheese, spinach, bacon, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour the mixture into the mini pie crusts, filling them about three-quarters full. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the quiches are set and lightly golden on top.
These mini quiches are perfect for a holiday party, offering a rich, creamy texture with a savory filling. The combination of spinach and bacon adds a nice contrast in flavor, while the cheese creates a smooth, comforting bite. You can customize the filling by adding other vegetables or meats, such as mushrooms, ham, or onions, to cater to your guests’ preferences. Mini quiches are easy to prepare in advance and can be reheated just before serving, making them a great option for stress-free hosting. Their golden crust and the colorful filling make them look visually appealing, perfect for a festive spread.
Shrimp Cocktail
Shrimp Cocktail is a timeless, no-cook appetizer that always looks sophisticated and festive. For this dish, you will need 1 lb of large cooked shrimp (peeled and deveined), 1/2 cup of cocktail sauce, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, and lemon wedges for garnish. Simply arrange the shrimp around a serving dish, leaving a space in the center for the cocktail sauce. In a small bowl, combine the cocktail sauce with lemon juice to add a fresh, tangy flavor. Garnish with lemon wedges for a pop of color and extra citrusy fragrance. Serve chilled, and enjoy this cool, refreshing appetizer with a bit of a zing from the cocktail sauce.
Shrimp Cocktail is a classic holiday appetizer, offering a sophisticated yet simple option for any gathering. The pink shrimp, with their tender texture, are beautifully complemented by the tangy cocktail sauce, making for a refreshing contrast to heavier dishes. It’s a perfect last-minute option since the shrimp can be bought pre-cooked, and the preparation time is minimal. This dish not only looks elegant but also provides a light and fresh bite, balancing out richer holiday dishes. Its simplicity and clean flavors make it a hit with guests, while the lemon wedges add a festive touch.
Cheese-Stuffed Mini Peppers
Cheese-Stuffed Mini Peppers are a colorful and easy-to-make appetizer that’s both healthy and indulgent. To make this, you will need 12 mini sweet peppers, 8 oz of cream cheese (softened), 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of dried oregano, salt and pepper to taste, and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley for garnish. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the mini peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth. Stuff the peppers with the cheese mixture, pressing gently to fill each half. Arrange the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is slightly golden. Garnish with fresh parsley for a colorful and festive finish.
These cheese-stuffed mini peppers are a great combination of creamy and crunchy textures, with the sweetness of the peppers balancing out the rich cheese filling. The colors of the peppers, bright red, yellow, and orange, make them visually stunning and perfect for a holiday table. The garlic and oregano add a nice herby flavor, making the dish taste sophisticated without being overly complicated. You can prepare the cheese filling in advance and stuff the peppers just before baking, making this a great option for a stress-free appetizer. They look and taste as if you’ve spent more time on them than you really have, making them a festive favorite.
Veggie Platter with Hummus
A Veggie Platter with Hummus is an easy, healthy, and visually vibrant appetizer that looks great at any holiday gathering. For this, you will need 1 cup of hummus (store-bought or homemade), 1 cup of baby carrots, 1 cucumber (cut into rounds), 1 bell pepper (sliced into strips), 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, and a few sprigs of fresh parsley for garnish. Arrange the veggies in a circle on a large platter, placing the hummus in the center as a dip. The bright colors of the vegetables create a festive, eye-catching display that is as beautiful as it is healthy. Garnish with fresh parsley for a little extra color and flavor.
This appetizer is quick to prepare and is a great option for guests looking for a lighter snack. The crunchiness of the veggies pairs perfectly with the creamy, garlicky hummus, creating a satisfying bite. The vibrant colors of the vegetables, such as the orange carrots, red bell pepper, and green cucumber, give it a festive appearance, perfect for the holiday season. You can even prepare the veggie platter ahead of time and refrigerate it until it’s time to serve. It’s a refreshing, guilt-free choice amid heavier holiday dishes, offering a nice balance to the rich flavors of the season.
Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Bacon-Wrapped Dates are a simple yet indulgent appetizer that combines the sweetness of dates with the savory crunch of bacon. For this dish, you will need 12 dates (pitted), 6 slices of bacon (cut in half), 1/4 cup of goat cheese (optional), and toothpicks. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). If using goat cheese, stuff each date with a small amount of cheese. Then, wrap each date with a half slice of bacon and secure it with a toothpick. Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy. The combination of the sweet dates and salty bacon creates a perfect bite-sized treat that is sure to impress.
These bacon-wrapped dates offer a wonderful contrast of flavors and textures, with the crisp bacon providing a savory crunch and the dates delivering a sweet, chewy bite. The goat cheese adds a creamy richness that complements the other ingredients, though it is optional for those who prefer a simpler flavor profile. This appetizer looks sophisticated and festive, and the best part is that it requires minimal preparation. These can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving, ensuring they’re fresh and warm when your guests arrive.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.