14 Last-Minute Party Snacks That Come Together Fast

When the clock is ticking and guests are on their way, having a few simple snack ideas on hand can save the day. These fast recipes come together without fuss but still bring a lot of flavor. You don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen to serve something satisfying. Whether you’re looking for something savory or sweet, these last-minute snacks will impress with minimal effort.

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Caprese Skewers

Caprese skewers are fresh, flavorful, and come together in just 10 minutes. The combination of mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze creates a burst of flavors. These bite-sized treats look elegant on any platter, perfect for any occasion. They offer a refreshing, light option that balances out heavier snacks. With only a few ingredients, they’re ideal for quickly preparing before your guests arrive.

You will need fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, balsamic glaze, and toothpicks for assembling. These ingredients are easy to find at any grocery store, and they pair together beautifully. The mozzarella can be bought in small balls or pre-sliced for convenience. Cherry tomatoes add a juicy burst, while basil brings freshness. The balsamic glaze gives the skewers a slight tangy sweetness.

Start by threading a cherry tomato, a basil leaf, and a mozzarella ball onto each toothpick. Once assembled, arrange the skewers on a plate. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the skewers just before serving to avoid sogginess. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor.

Quesadillas

Mini quesadillas are a quick and satisfying snack, taking only about 15 minutes to prepare. They can be made with a variety of fillings, like cheese, beans, or chicken, to suit any preference. Their small size makes them perfect for dipping and sharing. Whether you serve them with salsa or guacamole, they’re always a hit. These easy-to-make snacks offer a warm, comforting bite at your party.

You will need flour tortillas, shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend), and any other fillings like black beans, chicken, or peppers. You can also add sour cream or salsa for dipping. Use butter or oil for cooking. The size of tortillas can vary, so cut them into smaller portions if needed for bite-sized snacks.

Place a tortilla on a skillet over medium heat and sprinkle cheese on one half. Fold the tortilla over to cover the fillings and cook for about 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Cut the quesadilla into wedges and serve with salsa or guacamole for dipping. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.

Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are a classic snack that only take about 20 minutes to prepare. They are creamy, tangy, and can be made with various toppings such as paprika, bacon bits, or chives. This easy dish offers a hearty bite that can be prepared in advance or quickly whipped up before guests arrive. Their rich, savory flavor makes them a popular choice for almost any event. It’s a simple yet crowd-pleasing snack that never goes out of style.

You will need eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, salt, and pepper. Paprika or chives can be used for garnish. For extra flavor, you can add crispy bacon bits or pickles. These ingredients are easy to prepare and assemble into a tasty, bite-sized treat.

Hard boil the eggs for about 10 minutes, then cool and peel them. Slice the eggs in half lengthwise and remove the yolks. Mash the yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper, then pipe the mixture back into the egg whites. Garnish with paprika or any other toppings and serve immediately.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Spinach and artichoke dip takes only 15 minutes to prepare and is a warm, creamy snack that everyone loves. With a rich combination of spinach, artichokes, and cheese, it’s a perfect dip for crackers or bread. This dish can be served hot, straight from the oven, making it a cozy choice for cooler evenings. It’s a versatile snack that fits perfectly at any party. It’s easy to make in one bowl, saving time and cleanup.

You will need frozen spinach, canned artichoke hearts, cream cheese, sour cream, grated Parmesan, and shredded mozzarella. You can also add garlic and lemon juice for extra flavor. The ingredients are simple and easy to prepare, and you can mix them all in a single dish. This dip is rich and savory, guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Mix the spinach, artichokes, cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, mozzarella, and seasonings in a bowl. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake for about 20 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden on top. Serve with crackers or slices of baguette.

Guacamole with Tortilla Chips

Guacamole with tortilla chips takes just 10 minutes to make, making it an easy and popular party snack. The creamy avocado, lime, and cilantro create a fresh, vibrant dip that pairs perfectly with crispy tortilla chips. This snack is perfect for any occasion, whether served with tacos or as a standalone appetizer. With its rich flavor and easy preparation, it’s sure to be a crowd favorite. The best part is how simple the ingredients are.

You will need ripe avocados, lime juice, fresh cilantro, diced onions, tomatoes, salt, and tortilla chips. Feel free to add jalapeños for a spicy kick. The ingredients are easy to assemble and result in a fresh, flavorful dip. A bowl of chips on the side makes it a great snack for sharing.

Mash the avocados in a bowl, then stir in lime juice, cilantro, onions, tomatoes, and salt. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more lime or salt for flavor. Serve the guacamole with a bowl of tortilla chips for dipping. Keep it covered with plastic wrap to prevent browning.

Pigs in a Blanket

Pigs in a blanket are a classic party snack that comes together in just 15 minutes. The combination of mini sausages wrapped in flaky dough makes them irresistible and perfect for dipping. These bite-sized treats are great for quick appetizers, and they never fail to be the first to go. You can serve them with mustard, ketchup, or even a creamy dip for variety. It’s a simple snack that delivers on flavor every time.

You will need mini cocktail sausages, crescent roll dough, and mustard or ketchup for dipping. The sausages can be any type of your preference, from pork to chicken. Crescent dough comes pre-made in tubes, making the preparation process quick and easy.

Preheat the oven according to the crescent roll dough package instructions. Unroll the dough and cut it into small triangles. Place a mini sausage at the wide end of each triangle and roll it up. Bake according to the dough’s instructions, then serve with dipping sauces.

Veggie Tray with Hummus

A veggie tray with hummus is a healthy, colorful snack that’s quick to put together. You can arrange a variety of veggies, such as carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers, alongside a creamy hummus dip. It’s a perfect option for anyone looking for something light yet satisfying. The best part is that you can prepare it in just 10 minutes and still offer something fresh. It’s ideal for parties where you need to provide a snack quickly.

You will need fresh carrots, celery, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and a bowl of hummus. You can add olives or pita chips to expand the selection. The vegetables can be cut ahead of time to save time. The hummus can be store-bought or homemade depending on your preference.

Cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter. Place the hummus in the center of the platter for dipping. You can add a few extra ingredients like olives or feta cheese if desired. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for a short time.

Cheese and Cracker Platter

A cheese and cracker platter is one of the quickest snacks to assemble and requires only about 5 minutes of prep time. Select a variety of cheeses, such as cheddar, brie, and gouda, and arrange them with an assortment of crackers. This snack is perfect for any last-minute party and is always a crowd-pleaser. It pairs well with wine or any beverage of choice, adding a sophisticated touch to your event. Simple, yet elegant, it’s ideal when you’re pressed for time.

You will need a variety of cheeses, such as cheddar, brie, gouda, and a selection of crackers. You can also add grapes, nuts, or sliced cured meats for extra variety. Make sure to pick cheeses with different textures to give your guests more options. This snack is all about mixing flavors and textures.

Arrange the cheeses on a platter, placing them in sections for easy selection. Add crackers around the cheeses and fill in any empty spaces with grapes or nuts. If desired, add a few slices of cured meats like prosciutto or salami. Serve immediately or cover to serve later.

Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms take about 20 minutes to prepare and are a savory, bite-sized snack. The mushrooms are filled with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to golden perfection. Their rich flavor makes them a great option for last-minute gatherings. These little bites are filling and satisfying without being too heavy. Perfect for any occasion, they offer a warm treat on cool evenings.

You will need large mushrooms, cream cheese, garlic, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. You can also add bacon or sausage for extra flavor. These ingredients come together to create a creamy, flavorful stuffing for the mushrooms.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Remove the stems from the mushrooms and set them aside. Mix the cream cheese, garlic, parsley, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs together, then stuff the mushroom caps with the mixture. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

Bruschetta

Bruschetta is a quick and flavorful snack that can be put together in about 10 minutes. With fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic on crusty bread, it’s a perfect bite to kick off a party. The mix of textures from the crunchy bread and juicy topping creates a refreshing contrast. This snack is light and can be served with other appetizers to balance heavier dishes. It’s a great way to add a burst of flavor in just a few minutes.

You will need a baguette, fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. The tomatoes should be ripe for the best flavor, and the bread should be sliced thin. You can also add salt and pepper to taste. This recipe is simple and relies on fresh ingredients for maximum flavor.

Slice the baguette and toast the pieces until golden and crispy. In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and chopped basil. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then season with salt and pepper. Spoon the mixture onto the toasted bread just before serving.

Cheese-Stuffed Mini Peppers

These mini peppers are an easy and vibrant snack that can be prepared in just 15 minutes. The combination of cheese and colorful peppers adds a sweet and savory contrast that makes them stand out. You can use cream cheese, goat cheese, or feta, depending on your preference. These little stuffed peppers can be served cold or baked for a warm snack. It’s a versatile and delicious snack that will impress your guests without taking much time.

You will need mini bell peppers, cream cheese (or goat cheese or feta), garlic powder, and herbs like parsley or chives. A sprinkle of salt and pepper will bring everything together. The mini peppers should be halved and seeded before stuffing.

Cut the peppers in half and remove the seeds. In a bowl, mix the cream cheese with garlic powder, parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stuff the peppers with the cheese mixture and arrange them on a platter. Serve them as-is or bake for a few minutes at 350 degrees F to warm them through.

Peanut Butter and Banana Bites

Peanut butter and banana bites are a fast and satisfying snack that you can put together in about 10 minutes. These bites are filled with protein and natural sweetness, making them perfect for both kids and adults. The combination of peanut butter and banana is a crowd favorite, especially when served on whole wheat crackers or apple slices. This snack is easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients. It’s perfect when you need something quick and wholesome.

You will need bananas, peanut butter, whole wheat crackers, or apple slices. You can use any type of nut butter, depending on your preference. These ingredients are simple but offer a nutritious and delicious snack.

Slice the banana into bite-sized pieces. Spread peanut butter on crackers or apple slices, then top with banana slices. You can also sandwich the banana between two crackers for a bite-sized snack. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for a quick grab-and-go option later.

Smoked Salmon Crostini

Smoked salmon crostini are a chic yet easy-to-prepare snack, taking only about 15 minutes to make. The crisp crostini with smoked salmon and cream cheese offers a savory bite that feels luxurious. The bright dill and lemon add a refreshing balance to the richness of the salmon. This snack is perfect for elevating any party without requiring a lot of time. The small bites are ideal for people who want something satisfying but not too heavy.

You will need baguette slices, smoked salmon, cream cheese, fresh dill, lemon juice, and capers. The fresh dill and lemon juice are key for adding bright flavors. You can also use a flavored cream cheese for added variety.

Toast the baguette slices until crispy. Spread a thin layer of cream cheese on each slice, then top with smoked salmon. Garnish with fresh dill, a squeeze of lemon, and a few capers. Serve immediately for a fresh and flavorful snack.

Mini Pizza Bites

Mini pizza bites are a fun and easy snack that can be whipped up in about 10 minutes. Using store-bought dough or English muffins, you can quickly assemble these bite-sized pizzas and have them ready in no time. They’re great for satisfying everyone’s pizza cravings with minimal effort. You can customize them with toppings like pepperoni, veggies, or extra cheese. These mini bites are perfect for parties where guests prefer to snack casually.

You will need mini pizza dough rounds or English muffins, pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and any toppings you prefer, such as pepperoni or veggies. This snack is customizable to suit any taste. The simplicity of these ingredients makes them easy to prepare in a hurry.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Place the mini dough rounds or halved English muffins on a baking sheet. Spoon pizza sauce onto each, followed by cheese and any toppings you desire. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.