December evenings are filled with gatherings, so 47 Christmas party food ideas come in handy for everything from potlucks to open houses. Multiple choices keep things interesting and flexible, especially if you’re juggling several events. Food that feels comfortable and familiar always puts people at ease.
Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies
Smiles light up the room the moment trays of these Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies are passed around. Each bite-sized treat brings winter cheer to children and adults alike, thanks to its playful decorations. The soft texture makes them extra inviting for holiday celebrations. Serving these helps set a joyful mood every Christmas party.
Get the Recipe: Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies
Savory Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Winter get-togethers turn lively with platters of these Savory Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls. Guests often go back for seconds, making snack time last longer than planned. I love how the mix of sausage and cheese delivers a cozy flavor that fits any festive spread. Quick to prepare, these bites pack warmth in every mouthful.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Classic Party Cheese Ball
Celebrations gain instant excitement whenever a board features this Classic Party Cheese Ball. Friends gather to share stories as they scoop crackers through the creamy center. I prepare this for potlucks and see it vanish by the end of the evening. Cheese ball appetizers create easy conversation starters with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Classic Party Cheese Ball
Pecan Pie Brownies
Holiday dessert tables always buzz with chatter around this Pecan Pie Brownies recipe. Sweet, nutty layers blend crunchy and gooey goodness, surprising guests with rich flavor. I bring these to parties for a memorable twist on two familiar classics. Everyone wants to know your secret after their first bite.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Brownies
Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes
Quick refreshment brightens busy holiday gatherings when this Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes is served. Colorful layers get picked clean as guests look for lighter bites between all the sweets. I choose this salad as a no-fuss addition to wintry dinners. Caprese keeps the spirit lively without slowing down dessert plans.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes
Smoked Mackerel Pate
Food lovers pause to sample this Smoked Mackerel Pate during big December festivities. Smooth texture and savory notes create a unique experience for adventurous guests. I present it beside simple crackers to spark curiosity at appetizer time. The creamy spread encourages guests to discover something new this season.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mackerel Pate
Mini Cheesecakes
Tiny servings give big flavor to holiday dessert tables through this Mini Cheesecakes recipe. Each sweet cake brings a creamy finish that has guests reaching for seconds. I rely on these for parties so everyone can try more than one treat. Mini desserts offer simple joy and plenty of sharing.
Get the Recipe: Mini Cheesecakes
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites
Conversations tighten up in a fun way when someone nabs this Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites. These bites combine heat and crunch, exciting anyone looking for bold snacks. I provide a bowl at game nights to keep energy high. Guests are always eager to guess what gives these bites their signature spark.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites
Colorful Rainbow Fruit Skewers
Festive spreads seem even brighter with this Colorful Rainbow Fruit Skewers set out for everyone. Sweet, juicy layers melt away the chill and keep children curious at family gatherings. I add these to my table for a healthy splash among all the cookies. Fruit skewers bring plenty of easy smiles and quick snacks.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Rainbow Fruit Skewers
Rich Blueberry Cheesecake
Winter parties find elegance in slices of this Rich Blueberry Cheesecake. Tangy fruit and smooth base combine for a memorable dessert that doesn’t overwhelm. I serve it for special occasions so guests can try a bit of luxury. Each forkful carries the promise of a sweet finish to a cozy evening.
Get the Recipe: Rich Blueberry Cheesecake
Spiral Pinwheel Sandwiches
Platters brighten up instantly with rows of these Spiral Pinwheel Sandwiches. Bite-sized swirls are perfect for guests who want variety, while clean-up stays simple for the host. I turn to these for larger events since everyone can grab their own. Pinwheels become conversation starters thanks to their fun shape and quick appeal.
Get the Recipe: Spiral Pinwheel Sandwiches
Sweet Cranberry Brie Bites
Colorful treats decorate appetizer boards with these Sweet Cranberry Brie Bites lending a touch of winter festivity. Tart and creamy, these morsels tend to vanish as soon as plates are passed around. I make a double batch when crowds roll in. A blend of sweet and creamy feels just right for Christmas parties.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cranberry Brie Bites
Pecan Pie Dip
Dessert hour gets a conversation boost with bowls of this Pecan Pie Dip on the table. Creamy texture and crunchy bits invite people to gather and share stories while nibbling. I love using graham crackers to keep things easy and festive. Dip recipes offer a laid-back way to make new memories.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Dip
Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies
Every party tray looks extra inviting topped with these Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies. Guests race for these bite-sized favorites, never wanting to miss that first warm taste. I chose these snacks when hosting big groups during December. Smokies bridge the gap between casual and fancy, pleasing all ages.
Get the Recipe: Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies
Fresh Caprese Appetizer Bites
Light bites fill in the gaps at winter gatherings with these Fresh Caprese Appetizer Bites. Crisp flavors and colorful tomatoes add a pop to heavy party menus. I keep these nearby for grazing between courses. Caprese snacks feel cheery and keep plates balanced throughout the holiday.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Caprese Appetizer Bites
Candy Cane Cookies
Dessert trays glow with spirit when these Candy Cane Cookies get passed around at holiday celebrations. Their playful look delights everyone, inviting people to reach for seconds. I put these out early so no one misses them. Sweet simplicity helps make December full of cheer.
Get the Recipe: Candy Cane Cookies
Crispy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks
Snack tables always get busier when these Crispy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks makes an entrance. Melty cheese and crunchy batter crowd plates, bringing out playful dipping contests. I try to keep lots on hand for hungry guests. There’s nothing quite like grabbing warm snacks with a group of friends.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks
Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip
Steaming bowls at Christmas parties always find fans with this Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip in the lineup. Smooth texture gets balanced by a gentle tang, offering a perfect way to warm up with chips and bread. I reach for this classic when simplicity matters. Dips like these keep crowds happy and satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip
Boston Cream Pie
Winter dinners become special experiences when slices of this Boston Cream Pie end the meal. Rich layers create excitement, making dessert one of the most anticipated moments. I find guests lingering for seconds around the pie plate. Cream pies signal the comfort and warmth of the holiday season.
Get the Recipe: Boston Cream Pie
Colorful Caprese Skewers
Grazing tables light up with these Colorful Caprese Skewers arranged in neat rows. Each bite feels fresh, helping cut through heavier Christmas meals. I pair these with cheese platters for balance. Skewers give snackers an easy way to move and mingle without missing a beat.
Get the Recipe: Colorful Caprese Skewers
Savory Grilled Steak Pinwheels
Bites full of flavor make this Savory Grilled Steak Pinwheels a star choice for festive gatherings. Spirals stack neatly and make for great party conversation. I serve these at larger events so everyone can sample something bold. Steak pinwheels add flair and warmth to any Christmas table.
Get the Recipe: Savory Grilled Steak Pinwheels
Veggie Christmas Charcuterie Board
Building this Veggie Christmas Charcuterie Board turns snack hour into a colorful, wholesome experience. Guests are curious about the unique shapes and fresh flavors, especially when more sweets fill the table. I set out extra veggies for anyone needing a break from cookies. Boards like these encourage everyone to try something new and healthy.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Christmas Charcuterie Board
Cranberry Curd Tart
Dessert lovers pause for a second helping of this Cranberry Curd Tart as its bright red curd draws the eye and sparks excitement. A crisp crust supports the tangy center, creating an unforgettable winter treat. I present this for special occasions when color matters. Holiday meals feel brighter and more festive paired with a cranberry tart.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Curd Tart
Cheesy Rotel Dip
Warm bowls bring the party alive with this Cheesy Rotel Dip at every winter gathering. Creamy and bold, the dish attracts snackers from all corners of the room. I serve this with plenty of chips since everyone wants a scoop. Dip recipes can turn average nights into festive memories.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Rotel Dip
Crisp Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap
Guests rush to try something fresh at parties when this Crisp Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap is on the menu. Tangy dressing and crunchy greens break up the parade of rich treats, surprising everyone looking for lighter fare. I make these wraps for grazing between heartier courses. Caesar wraps mix familiar comfort with energetic crunch.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap
Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies
Decorating dessert tables takes on new meaning with these Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies. Bright colors and fun shapes invite people to join in holiday celebrations. I keep these cookies near cocoa for a real treat. Sweet cookies help holiday parties stay joyful and bright.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies
Loaded Million Dollar Dip
Snacking goes big at holiday events with bowls of this Loaded Million Dollar Dip at the center. Creamy dip and bold ingredients keep plates packed while friendly competition grows for the last bite. I prepare extra for game nights so there’s never a shortage. Dip always finds its place at cheerful gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Million Dollar Dip
Flaky Pigs in a Blanket
Classic finger foods always find fans with trays of these Flaky Pigs in a Blanket at December parties. Golden layers stay crisp and make each bite hard to resist. I notice people ask for these year after year. A reliable snack leaves plates empty by the end of the festivities.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Pigs in a Blanket
Ginger Bread House
Kids and adults lean in to admire this Ginger Bread House as it anchors the dessert table with holiday charm. Decorating becomes an activity everyone enjoys before taking a sweet bite. I make sure to build one for every new party. These bring color and tradition to cold winter days.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Bread House
Christmas Salad
Salads look festive with bowls of this Christmas Salad full of winter colors and crunch. Guests refresh their palates by piling greens high between bites of pie and cookies. I include this to give every table balance. Salads keep holiday meals feeling fresh and lively.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Salad
Spicy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Heat and flavor join forces with these Spicy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers at any holiday gathering. Crunchy outsides and creamy insides start lively debates among guests. I serve these when the crowd asks for bold flavors. Poppers deliver a playful punch and get people talking.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter
Cookie plates always find space for these Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter, which surprises guests with its gentle crumb and smooth icing. Each cookie is easy to share and decorate, bringing cheer to young and old. I put extra cookies out for those who need a mild sweet treat. Cookies help round out any Christmas dessert tray.
Get the Recipe: Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter
Spiral Italian Sub Pinwheels
Swirls of crisp veggies and meats give this Spiral Italian Sub Pinwheels snack tray extra style. Pinwheels make it easy for guests to fill plates quickly and keep mingling. I love serving these at upbeat parties for the fun appearance alone. Italian flavors and rainbow rows turn ordinary snacks into something festive.
Get the Recipe: Spiral Italian Sub Pinwheels
Smoky Bacon Pig Shots
Appetizer tables heat up quickly as trays of these Smoky Bacon Pig Shots circulate around lively party groups. Every bite packs a punch that brings eager snackers back for more. I pick these for evenings where I want plenty of variety. Pig shots mix up tradition with a touch of holiday adventure.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots
Oreo Balls
Sweet cravings find a home in bowls of these Oreo Balls at Christmas parties. Rich chocolate centers disappear in minutes as guests rediscover the fun of no-bake desserts. I prepare these for quick and easy sharing. Oreo balls are a crowd favorite for the holidays and beyond.
Get the Recipe: Oreo Balls
Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread
Dip options expand with trays of this Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread at December gatherings. Its bold color and earthy flavor attract friends eager for something different. I offer plenty of pita for scooping so everyone gets to try a bite. Winter parties need a dip that sparks adventure.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread
Crispy Maryland Crab Cake
Seafood fans perk up once this Crispy Maryland Crab Cake gets passed across the party. Golden outsides and tender insides make it stand out among classic holiday fare. I toss these on the table for events needing elegant comfort food. Crab cakes turn snack hour into something special.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Maryland Crab Cake
Retro Watergate Salad
Nostalgia takes over dessert tables with this Retro Watergate Salad brightening up winter gatherings. Green color and sweet fluff grab attention, sparking stories about holiday traditions. I always include this salad to encourage lighthearted memories. Watergate salad makes old-fashioned fun feel fresh and exciting.
Get the Recipe: Retro Watergate Salad
Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make
Hearty fruit and crunch bring back memories when serving this Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make. The classic taste makes every guest feel at home, especially in the heart of December. I rely on Waldorf salad for a sense of comfort among new and old friends. Crisp flavors fit right in during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make
Savory Turkey Pinwheels
Snack trays fill quickly with rows of these Savory Turkey Pinwheels in December. Guests add pinwheels to their plates for a light bite that balances out heavier fare. I prepare plenty for larger groups, knowing turkey is always a safe pick. These snacks help parties progress smoothly from appetizers to dessert.
Get the Recipe: Savory Turkey Pinwheels
Rich Chocolate Pie
Winter dessert plates sparkle with slices of this Rich Chocolate Pie provided after dinner. Velvety texture and deep chocolate taste set the mood for festive holiday feasts. I serve this on cold evenings when dessert needs to feel extra special. Pie is a timeless finish for celebrations big and small.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Pie
Classic Shrimp Cocktail
Seafood trays keep partygoers curious at Christmas gatherings thanks to this Classic Shrimp Cocktail. Chilled shrimp and tangy sauce encourage guests to linger near the snack table between courses. I add shrimp cocktail when elegance is called for at busy parties. Simple and fresh, it’s the dish everyone remembers.
Get the Recipe: Classic Shrimp Cocktail
Chicken Pinwheels
Finger foods get a boost from these Chicken Pinwheels on festive tables. Rolled flavors deliver fast snacks for groups, keeping holiday energy high. I serve chicken pinwheels with dips so everyone can try different tastes. Pinwheels are always gone before the end of the party.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pinwheels
Chewy Pecan Pie Brownies
Dessert trays earn extra attention with squares of this Chewy Pecan Pie Brownies on display. Each bite delivers a mix of sweet, nutty, and gooey flavors that people are happy to share. I like bringing them to events where everyone wants something classic but with a twist. Brownies are sure to disappear quickly in December.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Pecan Pie Brownies
Savory Brats in a Blanket
Pairing tender sausage with golden crust, this Savory Brats in a Blanket turns appetizers into the stars of the holiday table. Guests opt for this snack before trying heavier foods. I rely on brats when feeding a group looking for something hearty. Blankets bring warmth to any party menu.
Get the Recipe: Savory Brats in a Blanket
Warm and Gooey Baked Brie
Cheese boards feel complete once this Warm and Gooey Baked Brie takes its place among crackers and fruit. Creamy, golden centers win praise from guests around the fire. I serve baked brie for intimate winter evenings and larger celebrations alike. The simple recipe quickly becomes everybody’s favorite.
Get the Recipe: Warm and Gooey Baked Brie
Savory Roast Beef Sliders
Party platters are impossible to resist when filled with these Savory Roast Beef Sliders. Soft buns and rich beef make fast work of hungry crowds looking for something filling. I favor sliders for open house events with lots of mingling. These mini sandwiches are the first to vanish every December.
Get the Recipe: Savory Roast Beef Sliders
