Small bites keep conversation flowing and hands free for clinking glasses. The dishes below travel well from kitchen to coffee table and taste great even after they cool a little. Mix and match savory nibbles with a few sweet treats for a menu that feels abundant without being fussy. May your platters empty quickly and your guests linger happily.
Contents
- 1. Bacon-Wrapped Dates
- 2. Mini Caprese Skewers
- 3. Cranberry Brie Bites
- 4. Sausage Rolls
- 5. Stuffed Mushrooms
- 6. Pigs in Blankets
- 7. Smoked Salmon Cucumber Rounds
- 8. Spinach-Artichoke Dip Cups
- 9. Cheese & Charcuterie Cones
- 10. Mini Beef Wellington Bites
- 11. Deviled Eggs with Holiday Herbs
- 12. Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
- 13. Cranberry-Glazed Cocktail Meatballs
- 14. Mini Chicken & Waffle Sliders
- 15. Sweet Potato Crostini with Goat Cheese
- 16. Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels
- 17. Shrimp Cocktail Shooters
- 18. Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Phyllo Cups
- 19. Parmesan Truffle Fries Cones
- 20. Caponata Crostini
- 21. Mini Lobster Rolls
- 22. Roast Beef & Horseradish Sliders
- 23. Cranberry Pecan Cheese Balls
- 24. Fried Mac & Cheese Bites
- 25. Mini Quiches Lorraine
- 26. Gingerbread Spiced Nuts
- 27. Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Cups
- 28. Korean BBQ Beef Skewers
- 29. Brie & Fig Jam Puff Pastry Twists
- 30. Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
- 31. Maple-Glazed Bacon Twists
- 32. Mini Spanakopita Triangles
- 33. Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
- 34. Mushroom & Gruyère Tartlets
- 35. Everything Bagel Pigs in Blankets
- 36. Jalapeño Popper Wontons
- 37. Mini Crab Cakes with Remoulade
- 38. Ham & Swiss Party Rolls
- 39. Caprese Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
- 40. Teriyaki Meatball Lollipops
- 41. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites
- 42. Cranberry BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
- 43. Grilled Halloumi Skewers with Rosemary
- 44. Potato Latke Bites with Applesauce
- 45. Smoked Gouda Puff Pastry Straws
- 46. Mini Shepherd’s Pie Cups
- 47. Peach & Prosciutto Crostini
- 48. Goat Cheese-Stuffed Peppadews
- 49. Cajun Shrimp Puff Pastry Bites
- 50. Brussels Sprout & Bacon Skewers
- 51. Mini Tortilla Española Squares
- 52. Honey-Garlic Cocktail Sausages
- 53. Pesto Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Bread
- 54. Chocolate-Dipped Pretzel Rods
- 55. Mini Churros with Cinnamon Sugar
- 56. Peppermint Brownie Bites
- 57. Eggnog Cheesecake Bars
- 58. Gingerbread Truffles
- 59. Cranberry-Orange Mini Scones
- 60. Sugar Cookie Fudge Squares
- 61. White Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn Cups
- 62. Salted Caramel Pecan Tassies
- 63. Holiday Spiced Chex Mix Cones
- 64. Candy Cane Caprese Sticks
- 65. Mini Pavlovas with Pomegranate Seeds
1. Bacon-Wrapped Dates

Sweet Medjool dates take on a smoky edge once bundled in bacon. A quick stint in the oven renders the bacon crisp while the fruit turns almost caramel-like. Serve the bites straight from the baking sheet on a heat-proof platter so they stay warm for the first round of guests.
2. Mini Caprese Skewers

Caprese salad shrinks down beautifully for parties. Thread tomato, mozzarella, and basil onto short bamboo picks, then finish with a swirl of balsamic reduction. They taste bright and fresh, balancing out richer dishes on the buffet.
3. Cranberry Brie Bites

Store-bought puff pastry makes these showy morsels weeknight-easy. Tuck a cube of Brie and a spoon of tart cranberry sauce into mini muffin tins and bake until the pastry puffs. The contrast of buttery layers and fruity glaze feels unmistakably festive.
4. Sausage Rolls

British pubs perfected this party staple for a reason. Seasoned pork sausage gets wrapped in puff pastry and sliced into bite-sized lengths. Brush with egg wash for a golden crust and serve with mustard or a tangy chutney.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms

Cream cheese, garlic, and breadcrumbs turn humble button mushrooms into umami bombs. The caps roast until juicy while the tops crisp slightly. They hold together well, making them easy to grab without a fork.
6. Pigs in Blankets

These retro bites vanish faster than you can say “second helping.” Wrap cocktail franks in canned crescent dough, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and bake until puffed. Offer ketchup, honey mustard, or even cranberry ketchup for dipping.
7. Smoked Salmon Cucumber Rounds

Fresh cucumber provides a cool crunch while smoky salmon delivers savory depth. Pipe a swirl of lemony cream cheese on each slice and crown with dill. They feel elegant yet require zero stove time.
8. Spinach-Artichoke Dip Cups

Everyone loves a warm spinach-artichoke dip, but individual cups keep things tidy. Spoon the mixture into scooped tortilla shells and bake until bubbly. Guests can pop them whole without balancing chips and a plate.
9. Cheese & Charcuterie Cones

Portable cones turn a grazing board into hand-held fun. Layer meats, cheeses, and pickled goodies in paper holders so guests can mingle while they snack. They also double as pretty table décor when placed upright in a low vase.
10. Mini Beef Wellington Bites

All the drama of classic Wellington—without fork and knife. Sear tenderloin cubes, top with mushroom duxelles, wrap in pastry, and bake. Serve warm with a dab of horseradish cream on the side.
11. Deviled Eggs with Holiday Herbs

Deviled eggs never go out of style. Mix the yolks with mayo, Dijon, and a touch of pickle juice for brightness. Sprinkle with chives and smoked paprika for a red-and-green touch worthy of the season.
12. Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus

Thin asparagus spears roast quickly when hugged by salty prosciutto. A brush of olive oil ensures crisp edges and tender centers. They taste great warm or at room temperature, perfect for parties.
13. Cranberry-Glazed Cocktail Meatballs

Swap grape jelly for cranberry sauce in this beloved party recipe. The sweet-tart glaze clings to tender meatballs, giving them a seasonal twist. Keep them in a slow cooker on low so guests can help themselves all night.
14. Mini Chicken & Waffle Sliders

Southern comfort meets holiday whimsy here. Bake or fry popcorn-size chicken, tuck between toasted mini waffles, and secure with picks. A light drizzle of warm maple syrup ties sweet and savory together.
15. Sweet Potato Crostini with Goat Cheese

Swap bread for roasted sweet-potato slices to add color and a gluten-free option. A smear of tangy goat cheese balances the natural sweetness. Jewel-like pomegranate seeds add crunch and Christmas-red flair.
16. Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels

Leftover turkey gets new life tucked inside spinach tortillas with whipped cream cheese and cranberry relish. Chill the rolls before slicing to keep the spirals tight. They travel well for potlucks and look festive thanks to the green wraps.
17. Shrimp Cocktail Shooters

Classic shrimp cocktail becomes party-friendly when served in mini glasses. Chill cooked shrimp and spicy sauce separately, then assemble just before guests arrive. Each person grabs their own shooter—no communal dipping bowl required.
18. Pepper Jelly & Cream Cheese Phyllo Cups

Store-bought phyllo cups keep prep time short. Fill with a dollop of cream cheese, then spoon on pepper jelly for a zesty kick. They strike a perfect balance between creamy, crunchy, sweet, and spicy.
19. Parmesan Truffle Fries Cones

Upgrade standard fries with earthy truffle oil and nutty Parmesan. Serve them in paper cones so hands stay clean. A sprinkle of chopped parsley gives them a seasonal touch of green.
20. Caponata Crostini

Sicilian caponata features eggplant, tomatoes, olives, and vinegar, offering a sweet-and-sour bite that cuts through richer dishes. Spoon it onto toasted bread rounds right before serving so the crostini stay crisp. The jewel tones look beautiful on a holiday spread.
21. Mini Lobster Rolls

Lobster feels extravagant, yet small rolls keep portions reasonable. Mix cooked lobster meat with lemony mayo and tuck into toasted split-top buns. Serve chilled so the filling stays fresh during a long party.
22. Roast Beef & Horseradish Sliders

Thinly sliced roast beef meets its match in zippy horseradish cream. Assemble on soft rolls and keep warm in the oven covered with foil. The sliders satisfy heartier appetites without requiring a carving station.
23. Cranberry Pecan Cheese Balls

Form goat cheese and cream cheese into bite-size spheres, then roll in dried cranberries and toasted pecans. The red-and-brown coating looks cheerful and offers a sweet crunch. Pretzel sticks make them entirely finger-friendly.
24. Fried Mac & Cheese Bites

Mac and cheese turns even more irresistible once breaded and fried. Chill the casserole overnight so it firms up, then cut into cubes, bread, and fry until crisp. The gooey centers remain molten for several minutes—just right for party grazers.
25. Mini Quiches Lorraine

Eggs, bacon, and Gruyère bake into handheld custards that are tasty warm or room temp. Use store-bought pie dough pressed into mini tins to save time. The smoky bacon aroma draws guests straight to the platter.
26. Gingerbread Spiced Nuts

Warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, and clove turn ordinary mixed nuts into holiday candy. Roast until fragrant and let cool so the coating crisps. Set bowls around the room for easy snacking between heartier bites.
27. Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Cups

Cucumber cups deliver fresh crunch and eliminate the need for extra crackers. Blend chickpeas with roasted peppers for a vivid orange hummus. The color pops alongside evergreen décor.
28. Korean BBQ Beef Skewers

Thin slices of marinated ribeye cook quickly under the broiler. A soy-garlic glaze caramelizes for sticky, savory goodness. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallions before serving.
29. Brie & Fig Jam Puff Pastry Twists

Spread fig jam and Brie on puff pastry sheets, slice into strips, twist, and bake. The twists puff dramatically, encasing sweet jam and melty cheese. Serve warm while the centers are still gooey.
30. Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

Cauliflower florets roast until tender, then get tossed in spicy buffalo sauce. The veggie alternative keeps vegetarian guests satisfied without feeling like a compromise. Cool ranch or blue-cheese dip tempers the heat.
31. Maple-Glazed Bacon Twists

Twist bacon strips, brush with maple syrup, and bake until crisp. The corkscrew shape looks playful and cooks evenly. A pinch of cracked pepper adds subtle heat.
32. Mini Spanakopita Triangles

Greek spinach pie adapts neatly into bite-sized triangles. Phyllo layers bake shatter-crisp around a herb-studded feta filling. They can be made ahead and reheated just before serving.
33. Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce

Coconut milk-marinated chicken grills quickly on stovetop grill pans. A smooth peanut sauce welcomes a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for texture. The skewers are easy to wave around without drips.
34. Mushroom & Gruyère Tartlets

Earthy mushrooms pair beautifully with nutty Gruyère in crisp pastry shells. A splash of sherry vinegar brightens the filling. Serve warm so the cheese stays stretchy.
35. Everything Bagel Pigs in Blankets

Give the classic snack a deli twist by dusting with everything seasoning before baking. Onion, garlic, sesame, and poppy seeds add crunch and aroma. Pair with a swipe of cream cheese dip for full bagel vibes.
36. Jalapeño Popper Wontons

Press wonton wrappers into mini muffin tins, fill with cream cheese, cheddar, and diced jalapeño, then bake until bubbly. The wonton edges crisp like chips while the center stays creamy. They deliver gentle heat that won’t overpower the palate.
37. Mini Crab Cakes with Remoulade

Lump crab meat shines in petite patties bound with minimal filler. Pan-sear until golden and finish in the oven so the centers stay moist. A tangy remoulade offers bright contrast.
38. Ham & Swiss Party Rolls

Soft Hawaiian rolls cradle smoky ham and melty Swiss cheese. A mustard-poppy butter brushed on before baking creates a flavorful crust. Slice into individual portions for easy grabbing.
39. Caprese Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes become edible cups for a tiny Caprese salad. Toss mozzarella dice with minced basil and olive oil, then spoon into the tomatoes. A drop of thick balsamic reduction finishes each bite.
40. Teriyaki Meatball Lollipops

Insert sticks into cooked meatballs before brushing with homemade teriyaki glaze. The handle keeps fingers clean and kids entertained. Serve over a shallow bed of rice if you want to catch extra sauce.
41. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites

Bite-size chicken pieces bake quickly after a toss in seasoned breadcrumbs. A final coating of warm garlic-Parmesan butter makes them impossible to resist. They disappear faster than traditional wings and without the mess.
42. Cranberry BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders

Slow-cook pork shoulder in a mixture of barbecue sauce and cranberry jelly for sweet depth. Pile the tender shreds onto slider buns and top with crunchy slaw if you like. The cranberry notes tie the dish to the season.
43. Grilled Halloumi Skewers with Rosemary

Halloumi’s high melting point lets it grill without oozing. Using woody rosemary sprigs as skewers perfumes the cheese and looks elegant. A squeeze of lemon right before serving brightens every bite.
44. Potato Latke Bites with Applesauce

Shred potatoes and onions, then fry spoonfuls into coin-sized cakes. Keep them warm in a low oven until guests arrive. A touch of applesauce provides sweet relief from the crispy, salty edges.
45. Smoked Gouda Puff Pastry Straws

Brush puff pastry sheets with egg, scatter grated smoked Gouda, cut into strips, and twist. Bake until deeply golden and flaky. Stand them upright in a glass for an eye-catching centerpiece.
46. Mini Shepherd’s Pie Cups

Line muffin cups with pie dough circles, spoon in seasoned ground lamb and veggies, then cap with mashed potatoes. Bake until the peaks brown slightly. Guests enjoy all the comfort of shepherd’s pie without forks and knives.
47. Peach & Prosciutto Crostini

Juicy peaches play beautifully against salty prosciutto. Grill or broil the fruit briefly to intensify the sweetness, then assemble on crunchy crostini. A thread of honey rounds things out.
48. Goat Cheese-Stuffed Peppadews

Tangy, mildly spicy Peppadews come pre-cored, ready to be stuffed. Pipe in whipped goat cheese blended with herbs for a creamy surprise. Their bright red color looks like edible ornaments on the table.
49. Cajun Shrimp Puff Pastry Bites

Cajun seasoning wakes up succulent shrimp, which bake atop pastry squares for a flaky base. A small dot of remoulade delivers zesty contrast. Serve warm so the layers stay crisp.
50. Brussels Sprout & Bacon Skewers

Par-roast Brussels sprouts, then thread with bacon chunks before finishing under the broiler. The sprouts soak up smoky bacon drippings, turning tender and flavorful. Drizzle with a little maple syrup for a whisper of sweetness.
51. Mini Tortilla Española Squares

Tortilla Española is simple—eggs, potatoes, and onions—yet deeply satisfying. Cook it in a skillet, chill, then cut into neat cubes. A sprinkle of smoked paprika hints at holiday warmth.
52. Honey-Garlic Cocktail Sausages

Simmer little sausages in a sauce of honey, soy, and garlic until they plump and glisten. The slow cooker keeps them hot without extra work. Provide cocktail picks for easy serving.
53. Pesto Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Bread

Arrange stuffed dough balls into a tree shape, brush with basil pesto, and bake until golden. The result pulls apart like savory monkey bread. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan mimics snowfall.
54. Chocolate-Dipped Pretzel Rods

Sweet, salty, and crunchy, these rods require zero baking. Dip pretzels in melted chocolate, add festive sprinkles, and let set on parchment. They double as edible party favors when wrapped in cello bags.
55. Mini Churros with Cinnamon Sugar

Pipe pâte à choux dough into hot oil for quick-frying, then roll the sticks in cinnamon sugar. Serve them warm with thick hot chocolate for dipping. The aroma alone will draw a crowd.
56. Peppermint Brownie Bites

Use mini muffin tins for perfect one-bite brownies. A sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies adds crunch and a cool finish. They’re rich enough that a single piece satisfies, yet guests often return for more.
57. Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Swirl eggnog into a simple cheesecake batter and bake over a graham crust. Chill overnight for clean slices that hold up on a finger-food platter. A dusting of fresh nutmeg underscores the holiday flavor.
58. Gingerbread Truffles

Crumble gingerbread cookies, mix with cream cheese, roll into balls, and coat in chocolate. The interior stays soft and spiced. Store them chilled, then bring to room temperature for serving so the centers melt in the mouth.
59. Cranberry-Orange Mini Scones

Bright citrus zest lifts tart dried cranberries in these tender pastries. Bake them small so guests can sample without feeling stuffed. A quick orange glaze adds shine and extra aroma.
60. Sugar Cookie Fudge Squares

Sweetened condensed milk, white chocolate, and sugar-cookie mix melt into a creamy fudge. Stir in colorful sprinkles before it sets for playful specks throughout. Slice into tidy squares once chilled.
61. White Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn Cups

Air-popped corn gets a lavish coating of melted white chocolate, then a dusting of peppermint dust. Portion into festive paper cups for mess-free snacking. They keep well, so make them a day ahead.
62. Salted Caramel Pecan Tassies

Buttery pastry shells cradle gooey pecan filling. After baking, a ribbon of caramel and flaky salt contrasts sweet with savory. These little pies feel decadent but are easy to eat in one bite.
63. Holiday Spiced Chex Mix Cones

Bake cereal, nuts, and pretzels in a butter glaze spiked with cinnamon and clove. Toss in red and green chocolate candies after cooling. Cone packaging keeps hands clean and portions reasonable.
64. Candy Cane Caprese Sticks

Alternate red tomatoes and white mozzarella balls on mini skewers, then curve them into a candy-cane outline on the plate. The playful presentation feels instantly Christmassy. A drizzle of basil oil finishes them with fresh fragrance.
65. Mini Pavlovas with Pomegranate Seeds

Individual pavlovas bake up with crisp exteriors and marshmallow centers. Just before serving, spoon on whipped cream and scatter tart pomegranate jewels. The red-and-white palette mirrors classic holiday colors, giving a light finish to the feast.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
