20 Easy Christmas Appetizers For Big Groups

As a mom of three, I know the holidays can feel like a whirlwind of joy, chaos, and endless to-do lists.

Every year, I love hosting our annual Christmas gathering, where the kids run around in their Christmas pajamas, the house smells of pine and cinnamon, and I try my best to balance entertaining a crowd without spending the whole day in the kitchen.

That’s why I’ve perfected a lineup of easy, crowd-pleasing appetizers that make hosting a breeze, even on the coldest winter nights when the house is packed with friends and family.

If you’re looking to keep your holiday entertaining stress-free and festive, you’ll love these simple yet delicious appetizer ideas!

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20 Easy Christmas Appetizers For A Crowd

Mini Caprese Skewers

Bring a pop of color to your table with these adorable skewers. Made with cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves, they’re drizzled with balsamic glaze for a perfect balance of sweet and tangy. These bite-sized snacks are quick to assemble and look as festive as they taste. Perfect for mingling! Find the recipe [here].

Pigs in a Blanket

20 Easy Christmas Appetizers For Big Groups

Nothing says “crowd favorite” like flaky crescent rolls wrapped around mini sausages! These are always the first to disappear, especially if kids are in the crowd. You can even elevate them with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a side of Dijon mustard for dipping. Find the recipe [here].

Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Rich, creamy, and downright indulgent, this warm dip is a must-have for winter gatherings. Serve it with crackers, toasted baguette slices, or even fresh veggies for dipping. It’s the ultimate comfort food to enjoy while chatting around the fireplace. Find the recipe [here].

Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are a timeless appetizer that can be customized with different toppings to suit your holiday vibe. Add crispy bacon crumbles, smoked paprika, or even a touch of sriracha for a spicy twist. Bonus: they’re easy to prep ahead of time so you can focus on other tasks. Find the recipe [here].

Shrimp Cocktail

Elegant yet effortless, shrimp cocktail is a chilled appetizer that feels fancy without any real work. Arrange the shrimp on a platter with lemon wedges and a bowl of cocktail sauce for a classy touch. It’s the perfect addition to a festive spread. Find the recipe [here].

Cheese and Charcuterie Board

This is my go-to when I need something quick, beautiful, and satisfying. Combine a mix of cheeses, cured meats, crackers, nuts, and fruits for a spread that appeals to every palate. The best part? There’s no cooking involved, just arranging everything artfully on a platter. Find the inspiration [here].

For more charcuterie board ideas click here.

Meatballs (BBQ or Swedish-Style)

Warm and hearty, meatballs are always a crowd-pleaser, especially on chilly winter nights. Whether you opt for tangy BBQ sauce or creamy Swedish-style gravy, these are perfect served in a slow cooker to keep them warm all night. Find the recipe [here].

Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms are an elegant yet easy option for holiday appetizers. Fill them with a savory mix of breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs, and bake until golden. They look fancy but are surprisingly simple to make. Find the recipe [here].

Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil

For a lighter option, try bruschetta! Crispy toasted baguette slices topped with a fresh mix of diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil bring bright, zesty flavors to your spread. It’s refreshing and pairs well with heavier dishes. Find the recipe [here].

Bacon-Wrapped Dates

Sweet meets savory in these irresistible bites! The chewy dates are stuffed with creamy cheese (goat cheese or cream cheese works beautifully) and wrapped in crispy bacon. They’re simple to prepare and deliver a flavor explosion in every bite. Find the recipe [here].

Mini Quiches

Mini quiches are little bites of perfection. Whether you go with classic flavors like ham and cheese or something festive like spinach and red peppers, these tiny tarts are both satisfying and easy to grab. Plus, they can be made ahead and reheated before serving. Find the recipe [here].

Cranberry Brie Bites

Nothing says Christmas like cranberries! These pastry cups filled with melted brie and tangy cranberry sauce are as delicious as they are festive. Their flaky, buttery crust and gooey center make them the ultimate holiday treat. Find the recipe [here].

Cucumber and Cream Cheese Bites

Light, refreshing, and deceptively simple, these little cucumber bites are topped with a dollop of herbed cream cheese. Sprinkle with fresh dill or smoked salmon for an elegant touch. They’re a great option to balance out richer dishes. Find the recipe [here].

Veggie Platter with Ranch Dip

Sometimes you need something fresh and colorful to balance all the indulgent treats. A veggie platter with creamy ranch dip is a simple yet effective way to add crunch and nutrition to your appetizer table. Get creative with how you arrange the veggies—maybe even a Christmas tree shape!

Sausage Rolls

Flaky puff pastry wrapped around savory sausage is always a hit with a crowd. These golden-brown bites are quick to whip up and taste just as good served warm or at room temperature. Pair them with a spicy mustard dip for extra flavor. Find the recipe [here].

Chicken Wings (Variety of Flavors)

From honey BBQ to classic Buffalo or even sweet chili, chicken wings are a hearty, flavorful appetizer that guests love. Serve them with celery sticks and blue cheese or ranch dip to round out the platter. Find the recipe [here].

Caprese Christmas Wreath

Wow your guests with this stunning appetizer! Arrange fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil leaves in the shape of a festive wreath. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an eye-catching and delicious snack that’s almost too pretty to eat. Find the recipe [here].

Garlic Parmesan Pull-Apart Bread

Warm, cheesy, and loaded with garlic flavor, this pull-apart bread is the ultimate comfort food. It’s perfect for sharing and ideal for dipping into marinara or enjoying on its own. Guests will love pulling apart the buttery layers. Find the recipe [here].

Sweet and Spicy Mixed Nuts

Roasted nuts seasoned with a blend of holiday spices (think cinnamon, cayenne, and brown sugar) make for a perfect snack while mingling. They’re easy to make in big batches and will keep your guests munching all evening. Find the recipe [here].

Holiday-Themed Sugar Cookie Platter

End your appetizer spread with something sweet! A platter of beautifully decorated sugar cookies adds a touch of holiday magic to your table. Kids and adults alike will love sneaking one (or two) as they celebrate. Find the recipe [here].

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