12 Cold Christmas Appetizers Finger Foods

/ Side Dishes / By

Christmas is just around the corner!
Are you worried about what to prepare for your holiday parties? Don’t stress I’ve made it easier for you. In this post, I’ll share 12 delicious appetizers that you can whip up in no time, right in your kitchen.

Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or juggling multiple tasks during the holidays, these recipes are quick, easy, and absolutely crowd-pleasing. Each one is packed with flavor and guaranteed to impress your guests.

And if you’re planning your Christmas lunch or dinner, don’t forget to check out my other festive collections 20 Christmas Dinner Appetizers (Vegetarian) and 20 Christmas Lunch Ideas for Kids.

1. Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 0 minutes | Difficulty: Very easy | Serves: About 12 bites

I love these because they’re fresh, elegant, and genuinely one of my go-to Christmas finger food recipes when I want something classy without cooking. The crisp cucumber base, the silky smoked salmon, the bright lemon zest… it all adds up to an appetizer that’s simple, chilled, and full of flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 large cucumber, chilled and sliced into 12 rounds (about ½ cm thick)
  • 120 g (4½ oz) smoked salmon, cut into 12 pieces
  • 100 g (3½ oz) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (plus extra for garnish)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: a few capers or micro-greens for garnish

Steps

  1. Pat the cucumber rounds dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped dill, and a pinch of black pepper until smooth.
  3. Place a small dollop (about 1 teaspoon) of the cream cheese mixture on each cucumber round.
  4. Top each with a piece of smoked salmon. If you like, add a caper or a little micro-green on top for a decorative touch.
  5. Chill the bites in the fridge for 5-10 minutes before serving so they’re nicely chilled.

Variation & Tips

  • Make it vegan: Swap the cream cheese for a plant-based spread, and use smoked carrot strips (look for smoked carrot “lox”) instead of salmon.
  • Serving tip: Arrange the bites on a chilled platter and add extra dill sprigs around the edges for festive flair.
  • Storage note: Prep up to 1 hour ahead and keep covered in the fridge. Don’t assemble more than that or the cucumbers might release too much water.

2. Festive Caprese Skewers

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 0 minutes | Difficulty: Super easy | Serves: 12

If you’re looking for a cold Christmas appetizer that’s colorful, fresh, and guaranteed to disappear fast these Caprese Skewers are your best friend. They’re festive with red cherry tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil (hello Christmas colors 🎄). I love making these for holiday parties because they’re bite-sized, mess-free, and everyone always reaches for seconds.

Ingredients

  • 12 cherry tomatoes
  • 12 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
  • 12 fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 12 small skewers or toothpicks

Steps

  1. On each skewer, thread one cherry tomato, one basil leaf (fold if large), and one mozzarella ball.
  2. Lay them on a serving platter in neat rows I like to alternate directions so it looks full and decorative.
  3. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and a touch of balsamic glaze.
  4. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper on top.

Variations & Tips

  • Add fruit twist: Replace tomato with a strawberry for a sweet-savory version it’s unexpectedly delicious.
  • Make ahead: Assemble skewers a few hours before your party and keep them covered in the fridge. Drizzle the glaze right before serving so they stay fresh.
  • Presentation idea: Arrange them in a circular wreath shape on a platter for a festive holiday party centerpiece.

These Christmas finger food appetizers are so simple that even if you’re rushing before guests arrive, you’ll still look like you planned ahead.

3. Mini Tortilla Pinwheels with Veggie Cream Cheese

Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: None | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 24–30 pinwheels

These Mini Tortilla Pinwheels with Veggie Cream Cheese are my go-to when I need a quick, colorful, and make-ahead holiday finger food appetizer. They’re fresh, crunchy, and packed with flavor plus, they look beautiful with all those festive red and green veggies spiraled inside!

I love making these for Christmas parties because they’re mess-free and travel well. You can even make them a day ahead, refrigerate, and slice right before serving.

Ingredients

  • 4 large flour tortillas (spinach or tomato tortillas look festive!)
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ cup finely diced red bell pepper
  • ½ cup finely diced green bell pepper
  • ¼ cup finely chopped carrots
  • ¼ cup finely chopped green onions
  • ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Steps

  1. Make the filling:
    In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth.
  2. Add the veggies:
    Stir in the chopped red and green bell peppers, carrots, green onions, and cheese (if using).
  3. Assemble:
    Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture evenly over each tortilla. Roll up tightly from one end to the other.
  4. Chill and slice:
    Wrap each roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Then slice into 1-inch pinwheels using a sharp knife.
  5. Serve:
    Arrange the pinwheels flat on a platter the red and green bits make them look instantly festive!

Variations & Tips

  • Add protein: Try turkey slices, smoked salmon, or ham for a heartier version.
  • Use flavored tortillas: Spinach (green) and sun-dried tomato (red) tortillas add extra color and taste.
  • Make it spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or finely diced jalapeño for a kick.

These Mini Tortilla Pinwheels are simple, colorful, and full of flavor exactly what you want for a Christmas party appetizer that everyone enjoys. They’re easy to grab, fun to eat, and always a hit with both kids and adults.

4. Cold Shrimp Cocktail Cups

Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 12 mini cups

If you’re after something classic yet elegant, Cold Shrimp Cocktail Cups are always a hit at holiday parties. They’re fresh, flavorful, and look stunning on the table plus, they’re a no-fuss cold Christmas appetizer that you can make ahead of time. I love these because they add that “wow” factor without much effort.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

  • 12 large shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails on)
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For the Cocktail Sauce:

  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • A dash of hot sauce (optional)

For Assembly:

  • 12 small clear cups or shot glasses
  • Lettuce leaves or shredded lettuce (for the base)
  • Lemon wedges and parsley for garnish

Steps

  1. Cook the shrimp:
    Bring a pot of salted water with lemon slices to a gentle boil. Add shrimp and cook for about 2–3 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove immediately and transfer to an ice bath to cool completely.
  2. Prepare the cocktail sauce:
    In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste I like mine with a little extra horseradish for a bold kick.
  3. Assemble the cups:
    Place a small layer of shredded lettuce at the bottom of each cup. Add a spoonful of cocktail sauce on top, then gently hang one shrimp over the rim of each cup.
  4. Garnish and chill:
    Add a small lemon wedge and a parsley sprig for presentation. Chill in the fridge until ready to serve.

Variations & Tips

  • Make-ahead tip: You can prepare the shrimp and sauce a day in advance. Assemble just before guests arrive.
  • Spicy twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes or extra hot sauce for a fiery kick.
  • Serving idea: Arrange the cups on a tray of crushed ice to keep them perfectly chilled during your party.

These shrimp cocktail cups are proof that simple can still be sophisticated.

5. Mini Cheese Balls with Cranberries and Pecans

Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: 0 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 15–18 mini cheese balls

If there’s one appetizer that always gets people hovering around the table, it’s these Mini Cheese Balls with Cranberries and Pecans. I make every Christmas they’re simple, bite-sized, and look so pretty rolled in those bright red cranberries and golden pecans.

Ingredients

  • 225 g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
  • ½ cup pecans, finely chopped
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for color)
  • 15–18 small pretzel sticks (for serving)

Steps

  1. Mix the cheese base:
    In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, honey, garlic powder, and salt. Stir until smooth and well blended.
  2. Shape the balls:
    Scoop out about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll into small bite-sized balls.
  3. Roll in coating:
    In a shallow dish, mix chopped cranberries, pecans, and parsley. Roll each cheese ball in this mixture until evenly coated.
  4. Chill:
    Place the coated cheese balls on a tray, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
  5. Add pretzel sticks:
    Just before serving, insert a pretzel stick into each cheese ball it doubles as a handle and adds a fun crunch.

Variations & Tips

  • Make it nut-free: Skip the pecans and roll them in chopped herbs or crushed crackers instead.
  • Flavor twist: Try goat cheese instead of cream cheese for a tangier taste.
  • Make ahead: You can prep and coat them a day before, just wait to add the pretzels until serving time so they stay crisp.

These mini cheese balls are easy to make, festive-looking, and taste even better the next day as the flavors blend together.

6. Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon Bites

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 0 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 12–15 bites

Here’s one of those holiday appetizers that never fails to impress Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon Bites. The juicy melon pairs so beautifully with the salty prosciutto, and when you add a tiny drizzle of balsamic glaze on top oh, it’s pure magic. These little bites look fancy, but they’re effortless to make.

Ingredients

  • 1 small ripe cantaloupe or honeydew melon
  • 10–12 thin slices of prosciutto
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional)
  • Balsamic glaze (for drizzling)
  • Toothpicks or small skewers

Steps

  1. Prepare the melon:
    Cut the melon in half, remove the seeds, and scoop out bite-sized cubes or use a melon baller for round shapes.
  2. Assemble the bites:
    Tear the prosciutto slices into halves or thirds (depending on size). Wrap each melon piece with prosciutto and secure it with a toothpick.
  3. Add garnish:
    If you like, tuck a small basil leaf between the melon and prosciutto for extra freshness.
  4. Finish and serve:
    Arrange the bites on a serving platter and drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze right before serving.

Variations & Tips

  • Mix up the melon: Try using watermelon or even mango for a twist.
  • Make it vegetarian: Skip the prosciutto and wrap the melon in thin cucumber ribbons for a fresh, crisp version.
  • Serving idea: These can be made a couple of hours ahead just cover and refrigerate, then drizzle with glaze right before serving.

These Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon Bites are perfect for any Christmas party finger food platter because they add color, freshness, and that touch of elegance without any cooking required.

7. Caprese Skewers with Pesto Drizzle

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 0 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 12–15 skewers

Whenever I need something light, fresh, and festive for the holidays, I always go for these Caprese Skewers with Pesto Drizzle. They bring the classic Italian flavors of tomato, mozzarella, and basil into bite-sized form perfect as a Christmas finger food appetizer that looks elegant but takes minutes to make.

Ingredients

  • 1-pint cherry tomatoes
  • 8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine size)
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tablespoons prepared basil pesto
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Toothpicks or small cocktail skewers

Steps

  1. Prep your ingredients:
    Rinse the tomatoes and basil leaves. Drain the mozzarella balls and pat them dry with paper towels.
  2. Assemble the skewers:
    On each toothpick or skewer, thread one tomato, one basil leaf, and one mozzarella ball. Repeat until you’ve used up all the ingredients.
  3. Make the drizzle:
    In a small bowl, mix pesto with olive oil to create a thinner, drizzle-able consistency.
  4. Finish and serve:
    Arrange the skewers on a platter, drizzle lightly with the pesto mixture, and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Variations & Tips

  • Add balsamic glaze: A light drizzle gives a sweet contrast that pairs beautifully with the pesto.
  • Try different tomatoes: Use yellow cherry tomatoes or mixed colors for a festive red-and-gold look.
  • Make it vegan: Substitute vegan mozzarella or marinated tofu cubes.

These Caprese Skewers are fresh, colorful, and so simple everything you want in a holiday finger food. They’re a crowd favorite and add a bright, cheerful vibe to your Christmas appetizer spread.

8. Cranberry Brie Crostini

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 10 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 12–15 pieces

These Cranberry Brie Crostini are the kind of cold Christmas appetizers finger foods that make any holiday table look elegant with almost zero effort.

I love this recipe because it strikes that perfect balance of fancy-but-easy. You can serve it slightly warm or completely cooled it’s delicious either way.

Ingredients

  • 1 French baguette, sliced into ½-inch rounds
  • 8 oz (225 g) Brie cheese, cut into thin slices
  • ½ cup cranberry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for drizzling)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for garnish)

Steps

  1. Prepare the bread:
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and bake for 5–6 minutes, until lightly toasted.
  2. Assemble:
    Top each slice with a piece of Brie and a spoonful of cranberry sauce.
  3. Warm (optional):
    If you prefer it slightly melted, return to the oven for 3–4 minutes just until the Brie softens.
  4. Finish:
    Drizzle lightly with honey and sprinkle with rosemary or thyme before serving.

Variations & Tips

  • Make it cold: Skip the oven step and just assemble the crostini fresh perfect for buffet-style parties.
  • Use different cheeses: Goat cheese or cream cheese also pair beautifully with cranberry.
  • Add crunch: A sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans adds a lovely texture.

I often make extra because they disappear fast especially when there’s a glass of bubbly nearby.

9. Deviled Eggs with a Holiday Twist

Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: 10 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 12 halves

Deviled eggs are such a classic party favorite but this version gets a little Christmas makeover! These Deviled Eggs with a Holiday Twist are creamy, flavorful, and topped with festive garnishes like paprika, chives, or even a touch of crispy bacon for those who eat meat. They’re bite-sized, easy to make ahead, and look so cute on a platter trust me, they’ll vanish fast!

Ingredients

  • 6 large eggs
  • 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon white vinegar or lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Paprika, for garnish
  • Fresh chives or dill, for garnish
  • Optional: finely diced red bell pepper (for a festive red pop)

Steps

  1. Boil the eggs:
    Place the eggs in a saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, cover and remove from heat. Let them sit for 10 minutes, then transfer to cold water.
  2. Prepare the filling:
    Peel the eggs and slice them in half lengthwise. Remove the yolks and place them in a bowl.
    Mash the yolks with a fork and mix in mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar (or lemon juice), salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
  3. Assemble:
    Spoon or pipe the filling back into the egg whites. A piping bag makes them look extra pretty, but a small spoon works just fine too.
  4. Garnish:
    Sprinkle with paprika and top with chopped chives or dill.
    For an extra festive look, add a few tiny pieces of red bell pepper they look like little holly berries!

Variations & Tips

  • Make-ahead: Prepare the filling and whites separately; assemble right before serving.
  • Add some spice: Mix in a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce for a little kick.
  • Healthier option: Swap half the mayo for Greek yogurt to lighten it up.

These Deviled Eggs with a Holiday Twist are perfect for a holiday brunch, appetizer platter, or even a New Year’s Eve party spread.

10. Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: None | Difficulty: Super Easy | Serves: 12–15 skewers

If you’re looking for a no-cook, fresh, and colorful Christmas finger food appetizer, these Caprese Skewers are your answer. They’re flavorful, with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil all drizzled with tangy balsamic glaze. Honestly, they look like little ornaments on a platter perfect for the holiday table!

Ingredients

  • 1 pint (about 2 cups) cherry tomatoes
  • 8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine size)
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
  • 12–15 small skewers or cocktail picks

Steps

  1. Prep your ingredients:
    Wash the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves. Drain the mozzarella balls and pat dry.
  2. Assemble the skewers:
    Thread one cherry tomato, one basil leaf (folded if large), and one mozzarella ball onto each skewer. Repeat until all are assembled.
  3. Season and drizzle:
    Arrange the skewers neatly on a serving platter. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
  4. Finish with glaze:
    Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic glaze generously over the skewers for that glossy, sweet-tangy finish.

Variations & Tips

  • Make it festive: Use both red and yellow cherry tomatoes for a colorful, holiday look.
  • Vegan version: Replace mozzarella with marinated tofu cubes.
  • Homemade glaze: Simmer ½ cup balsamic vinegar until it reduces to a syrupy consistency (about 10 minutes).

These Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze are light, elegant, and oh-so-easy to make. They add freshness to your appetizer spread and pair beautifully with richer dishes like mini quiches or cheesy bites.

11. Goat Cheese and Pesto Stuffed Mini Peppers

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: None | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 15–20 pieces

These Goat Cheese and Pesto Stuffed Mini Peppers are bright, creamy, and full of flavor truly one of my favorite Christmas finger food appetizers! Plus, the colors red, green, and white make them absolutely perfect for the holidays.

They’re quick to make, look gorgeous on a platter, and taste just as good chilled as they do at room temperature.

Ingredients

  • 10–12 mini sweet peppers (a mix of red, yellow, and orange)
  • 6 oz (170 g) soft goat cheese
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese (for extra creaminess)
  • 2 tablespoons prepared basil pesto
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Steps

  1. Prep the peppers:
    Slice each mini pepper in half lengthwise and remove any seeds or membranes. Arrange them on a platter, cut side up.
  2. Make the filling:
    In a small bowl, mix goat cheese, cream cheese, and pesto until smooth and creamy. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Fill the peppers:
    Spoon or pipe the mixture into each pepper half. A piping bag (or a zip-top bag with the corner cut off) makes it neat and quick.
  4. Garnish:
    Sprinkle with chopped basil or parsley for a fresh finish.

Variations & Tips

  • Make it festive: Use red and yellow peppers with green pesto for that holiday color pop.
  • Add crunch: Sprinkle crushed toasted walnuts or pine nuts on top.
  • Vegan option: Use vegan goat cheese or a cashew cheese spread instead.

These Goat Cheese and Pesto Stuffed Mini Peppers are light, flavorful, and naturally gluten-free the kind of bite-sized appetizer that vanishes fast. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings when you want something fresh and colorful among all the heavy dishes.

12. Cranberry Brie Phyllo Cups

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 10 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 12–15 cups

If I could describe these Cranberry Brie Phyllo Cups in one word, it would be festive! The combination of creamy brie, tart cranberry, and crispy phyllo shells is just unbeatable it’s like a mini bite of Christmas. These are the kind of appetizers that look like you spent hours making them, but really, they’re done in minutes.

Ingredients

  • 1 package (15 count) mini phyllo shells (store-bought, pre-baked)
  • 6 oz (170 g) brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small cubes
  • ⅓ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped pecans (optional)
  • Fresh rosemary leaves for garnish

Steps

  1. Preheat oven:
    Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Assemble the cups:
    Place phyllo shells on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
    Add one cube of brie to each shell.
    Top each with about ½ teaspoon cranberry sauce.
  3. Bake:
    Bake for 7–10 minutes, or until the brie is melted and the edges of the phyllo are golden and crisp.
  4. Garnish:
    Sprinkle chopped pecans and a tiny rosemary leaf on each cup for a holiday touch.

Variations & Tips

  • Make it sweeter: Add a drizzle of honey before serving.
  • Add a twist: Use raspberry jam instead of cranberry for a different flavor profile.
  • Time-saving tip: These can be assembled a few hours in advance just bake right before serving.

These Cranberry Brie Phyllo Cups are the perfect holiday party finger food warm, gooey, and bursting with festive flavors. I love how the creamy brie pairs with tangy cranberry; it’s sweet, savory, and everything you want in a Christmas bite.