Holiday gatherings feel a little brighter when the buffet table is packed with color, aroma, and bite-sized fun. The following dishes travel well from kitchen to living room and hold up under mingling, refills, and photo-happy guests. Mix and match for a spread that suits every appetite—from cheese lovers to chocoholics.
Contents
- 1. Mini Cranberry Brie Bites
- 2. Bacon-Wrapped Dates
- 3. Spiced Nut Mix
- 4. Shrimp Cocktail with Horseradish Sauce
- 5. Stuffed Mushrooms with Sausage
- 6. Holiday Charcuterie Board
- 7. Turkey & Cranberry Sliders
- 8. Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Drizzle
- 9. Deviled Eggs with Smoked Salmon
- 10. Pigs in a Blanket with Dijon Dip
- 11. Maple-Glazed Meatballs
- 12. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pomegranate
- 13. Spinach & Artichoke Dip
- 14. Cheese Fondue with Bread Cubes
- 15. Classic Cheese Ball with Pecans
- 16. Gingerbread Cookies
- 17. Peppermint Bark
- 18. Eggnog Cheesecake Bars
- 19. Yule Log Cake
- 20. Hot Cocoa Station
- 21. Cranberry Orange Punch
- 22. Mulled Wine
- 23. Roast Beef Crostini with Horseradish Cream
- 24. Sweet Potato Bites with Goat Cheese
- 25. Mini Lobster Rolls
- 26. Caponata on Toasted Baguette
- 27. Candied Bacon Twists
- 28. Turkey Pot Pie Bites
- 29. Truffle Parmesan Popcorn
- 30. Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Platter
- 31. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries with Sprinkles
- 32. Parmesan Herb Palmiers
- 33. Festive Antipasto Skewers
- 34. Mini Quiche Assortment
- 35. Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log
- 36. Holiday Fruit Salad with Mint
- 37. Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Pecans
- 38. Stuffed Bell Pepper Christmas Trees
- 39. Roast Chicken Drumettes with Rosemary
- 40. Cranberry Meatball Skewers
- 41. Garlic Knots Wreath
- 42. Mini Shepherd’s Pies
- 43. Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
- 44. Baked Brie in Puff Pastry
- 45. Sticky Toffee Pudding Cups
- 46. Chocolate Mousse Shots
- 47. Panettone French Toast Bites
- 48. Festive Caprese Christmas Tree Platter
- 49. Honey-Glazed Ham Sliders
- 50. Shortbread Stars with Citrus Glaze
1. Mini Cranberry Brie Bites

Puff pastry squares cradle creamy brie that turns gooey in the oven. A spoonful of tart cranberry sauce cuts the richness and adds seasonal flair. Serve these bites straight from the baking sheet while the cheese is still stretchy. They disappear quickly, so plan on at least two per guest.
2. Bacon-Wrapped Dates

Salty bacon hugs sweet Medjool dates for a perfect sweet-savory contrast. Tuck in a sliver of almond or soft cheese before rolling if you like extra texture. Bake until the bacon is crisp and the date centers are warmed through. The aroma alone will pull people toward the appetizer table.
3. Spiced Nut Mix
Cashews, pecans, and almonds pick up festive flavor from brown sugar, cinnamon, and a gentle kick of cayenne. A quick roast in the oven caramelizes the coating and leaves the kitchen smelling incredible. Package leftovers in small jars as a parting gift. Keep an extra batch hidden for yourself.
4. Shrimp Cocktail with Horseradish Sauce
Classic never means boring—especially when the shrimp are tender and the sauce packs real horseradish heat. Poach the shrimp briefly in seasoned water, then chill them to keep the texture snappy. Present on ice or a cold platter so they stay fresh throughout the night. A squeeze of lemon brightens every dip.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms with Sausage
Ground Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, and herbs team up inside earth-y mushroom caps. A sprinkle of parmesan crisps on top for a savory crust. Assemble the caps ahead of time and bake right before guests arrive. They taste even better than they smell—which is saying something.
6. Holiday Charcuterie Board
A well-stocked board turns snacking into an activity. Think rosemary-scattered salami roses, wedges of aged cheddar, and ruby pomegranate seeds tucked in for sparkle. Offer grainy mustard and honey on the side for contrast. Refill small sections rather than setting out all your supplies at once to keep everything looking photo-ready.
7. Turkey & Cranberry Sliders
Sliders capture the essence of a holiday leftover sandwich in handheld form. Tender turkey layers with sweet-tart cranberry sauce for a nostalgic bite. Use soft rolls so nothing falls apart while mingling. A touch of mayo or cream cheese keeps each slider moist without dripping.
8. Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Drizzle
Bright red and green shades make these skewers feel tailor-made for Christmas. The bite-sized format keeps fingers clean and plates uncluttered. Reduce balsamic vinegar on the stove until syrupy for a tangy finish. Even kids who claim to dislike tomatoes often come back for seconds.
9. Deviled Eggs with Smoked Salmon
Classic deviled eggs gain holiday elegance with a ribbon of smoked salmon. The rich fish balances the creamy yolk filling, while dill adds a herbal pop. Pipe the filling for a tidy look that feels party-ready. Chill the eggs well so they’re sturdy enough to hold in one bite.
10. Pigs in a Blanket with Dijon Dip
This retro favorite still wins hearts. Little smokies rolled in buttery dough bake up fluffy and irresistible. Offer a tangy mustard dip to cut the richness. They vanish quickly, so keep a second tray warming in the oven.
11. Maple-Glazed Meatballs
Ground beef or turkey meatballs simmer in a sweet-savory sauce of maple syrup, soy, and garlic. The glaze thickens into a sticky coating that clings with every bite. Serve from a slow cooker on low to keep them hot for hours. Offer small forks so guests can grab two at once.
12. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pomegranate
Roasting tames Brussels sprouts, giving them crisp edges and a mellow center. Juicy pomegranate arils add color and a burst of sweetness. A light balsamic drizzle ties everything together. Even skeptics often convert once they taste that sweet-savory crunch.
13. Spinach & Artichoke Dip
Cream cheese, mozzarella, and parmesan meld with spinach and marinated artichokes for pure comfort. Bake until the top browns slightly and edges bubble. Sturdy bread or tortilla chips stand up best to the thick dip. Keep a serving spoon handy—the cheese stretch is real.
14. Cheese Fondue with Bread Cubes
Gruyère and Emmental melt into white wine for a smooth, nutty blend. Rubbing the pot with garlic first layers in subtle flavor. Cubes of day-old baguette keep their shape in the molten cheese. Rotate forks so everyone gets a fair share of the coveted crust near the bottom.
15. Classic Cheese Ball with Pecans
Cream cheese and shredded cheddar combine with spices for a retro crowd-pleaser. Rolling the mixture in toasted pecans brings crunch and a toasty note. Shape and wrap the ball a day early so flavors marry. Set out a sturdy spreader to keep the crackers intact.
16. Gingerbread Cookies
Molasses and ginger perfume these classic cut-outs. Bake the cookies just until edges darken for a soft center. Royal icing adds sweetness and doubles as décor. Kids love customizing faces, buttons, and scarves.
17. Peppermint Bark
Layer melted dark chocolate under silky white chocolate, then shower with crushed candy canes. Once firm, crack it into rustic pieces for easy sharing. The bark keeps for weeks in airtight tins, making it ideal for make-ahead planning. It also doubles as a pretty hostess gift.
18. Eggnog Cheesecake Bars
Eggnog adds nutmeg-flecked holiday flavor to a velvety cheesecake batter. Baking in a slab and slicing into bars simplifies serving. A graham cracker crust brings a familiar crunch. Chill the finished pan overnight for the cleanest cuts.
19. Yule Log Cake
Also called Bûche de Noël, this rolled sponge cake speaks fluently in chocolate. A light cocoa sponge wraps around whipped cream or buttercream, then gets cloaked in ganache. Gentle fork marks mimic bark, while meringue mushrooms seal the woodland look. Slicing reveals the spiral interior that guests always admire.
20. Hot Cocoa Station
Set out mugs and let friends ladle rich cocoa themselves. Bowls of toppings—think crushed peppermint, caramel drizzle, and marshmallows—encourage creativity. Keep the cocoa warm on low so it doesn’t scorch. A ladle with a spout helps avoid spills.
21. Cranberry Orange Punch
Tart cranberry juice meets fresh orange slices for a drink as refreshing as it is festive. Sparkling water or ginger ale adds bubbles without overpowering flavor. Garnish with rosemary for an aromatic hint of pine. Offer a splash of rum on the side for those who prefer it spirited.
22. Mulled Wine
Red wine simmers gently with spices, citrus, and a touch of honey. The result is warming in both taste and aroma. Keep the heat low to avoid boiling off alcohol and flavor. Serve in heatproof glasses so fingers stay comfortable.
23. Roast Beef Crostini with Horseradish Cream
Paper-thin roast beef drapes over crunchy crostini for a satisfying texture contrast. Horseradish cream wakes up the palate without overpowering. Finish with minced chives for color and a light onion note. Assemble just before serving so the bread stays crisp.
24. Sweet Potato Bites with Goat Cheese
Sweet potato slices roast into tender disks that serve as gluten-free bases. Tangy goat cheese balances their natural sweetness. A thin ribbon of honey ties everything together. Sprinkle chopped pecans for crunch if desired.
25. Mini Lobster Rolls
Succulent lobster meat tossed in light lemon mayo turns a summer classic into a winter luxury. Using small buns stretches the seafood farther while keeping portions party-friendly. Warm the buns with butter for aroma and flavor. Parsley flecks lend a festive touch without stealing the spotlight.
26. Caponata on Toasted Baguette
Sicilian caponata combines eggplant, tomatoes, olives, and capers for a sweet-savory relish. The mixture tastes even better after a day’s rest, making it stress-free for hosts. Spoon over toasted baguette slices right before setting out. The topping’s jewel tones fit right in with holiday décor.
27. Candied Bacon Twists
Strip bacon, twist, coat in spiced brown sugar, and bake until crisp. The sugar caramelizes into a shiny coating that cracks with every bite. Serve upright in a short glass for an eye-catching display. Guests will nibble them like breadsticks.
28. Turkey Pot Pie Bites
Diced leftover turkey mixes with vegetables in a velvety gravy. Spoon the filling into mini pastry shells for two-bite comfort food. Bake until puffed and golden. They taste fantastic warm or at room temperature.
29. Truffle Parmesan Popcorn
A drizzle of truffle oil and a shower of parmesan turn humble popcorn into party gold. Serve in small bowls scattered around the room so guests can grab a handful while chatting. The aroma draws people in from across the space. Leftovers make a luxe movie-night snack.
30. Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Platter
Blending chickpeas with smoky roasted peppers creates a vibrant dip that stands out on any spread. Serve with pita and crunchy veggies for color and texture variety. A drizzle of olive oil on top adds shine and richness. This vegan option pleases nearly everyone.
31. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries with Sprinkles
Ripe strawberries wear a coat of melted dark chocolate that hardens into a shiny shell. Festive sprinkles add crunch and color. Line the tray with parchment so berries lift easily. They keep best chilled until moments before serving.
32. Parmesan Herb Palmiers
Puff pastry rolled with parmesan and chopped herbs bakes into crisp, buttery swirls. The savory aroma signals party time the minute they leave the oven. Serve warm or at room temperature. They pair beautifully with sparkling wine.
33. Festive Antipasto Skewers
These skewers pack big Italian flavors in grab-and-go form. The alternating red, green, and creamy white pieces echo holiday hues. Drizzle with a little olive oil just before serving for shine. They travel well to potlucks, too.
34. Mini Quiche Assortment
Make one egg custard base, then split it into bowls and stir in different fillings for variety. Bake in mini muffin tins for perfectly portioned bites. Quiche tastes great warm or room temperature, making timing easier. Freeze extras and reheat straight from the freezer for New Year’s brunch.
35. Cranberry Pistachio Cheese Log
Tangy goat cheese rolled with cream cheese forms the creamy core. Chopped pistachios and dried cranberries supply crunch and color. The log takes only minutes to assemble yet looks boutique-store fancy. Slice or spread—either way it’s delicious.
36. Holiday Fruit Salad with Mint
Bright fruit offers a refreshing break from richer fare. Use fruits that hold up well on a buffet, such as grapes, kiwi, and citrus. A quick honey-lime dressing ties flavors together. Mint adds fragrance and a splash of green.
37. Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Pecans
Pecans roast in a light egg-white coating that grips cinnamon, sugar, and a hint of salt. As they cool, a crunchy shell forms. Serve in small bowls or spoon into gift bags. The aroma announces the season better than any candle.
38. Stuffed Bell Pepper Christmas Trees
Halved mini peppers filled with colorful quinoa salad look like edible ornaments. Arrange upright on a platter and use diced red pepper for ornament dots. The peppers stay crisp, offering a welcome freshness among heavier dishes. Kids appreciate the playful presentation.
39. Roast Chicken Drumettes with Rosemary
Smaller than full wings, drumettes are easy to eat while juggling a drink. A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, and rosemary infuses deep flavor. Roast at high heat for crispy skin that stays that way even after resting. Provide napkins within arm’s reach.
40. Cranberry Meatball Skewers
Frozen meatballs meet a two-ingredient sauce of cranberry jelly and chili sauce for a sweet-spicy glaze. Skewering two or three meatballs together makes serving neater. Keep extras warm in a slow cooker for quick refills. They offer a flavor nod to Thanksgiving while standing firmly in Christmas territory.
41. Garlic Knots Wreath
Soft dough knots brushed with garlic butter bake into a pull-apart centerpiece. Forming them into a circle leaves space for warm marinara in the middle. Sprinkle with parmesan and parsley as soon as they exit the oven. The wreath disappears slice by slice.
42. Mini Shepherd’s Pies
Ground lamb or beef stews with peas and carrots before being tucked under fluffy mashed potatoes. Baking in muffin tins creates tidy single servings. The potato tops brown for a crust that hides a savory filling. Guests catch the comforting scent long before they see them.
43. Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus
Prosciutto becomes crisp in the oven, protecting the asparagus from over-cooking. A swipe of olive oil and crack of black pepper are all you need. Serve the spears slightly warm for best texture. They provide a lighter option that still feels indulgent.
44. Baked Brie in Puff Pastry
Brie turns molten under a flaky pastry shell, practically begging for crackers or apple slices. Spread a spoonful of fig jam over the cheese before wrapping for added sweetness. Score festive designs on the pastry for extra flair. Slice while warm so the cheese flows slowly rather than escaping all at once.
45. Sticky Toffee Pudding Cups
Date-sweetened sponge cakes soak up a buttery toffee sauce that clings to every crumb. Serving in individual cups saves effort at plating time. A small cloud of whipped cream provides contrast. They reheat well, making leftovers just as tempting.
46. Chocolate Mousse Shots
Rich yet airy mousse poured into tiny glasses satisfies sweet cravings without heavy portions. Use good quality dark chocolate for depth. Chill until firm, then garnish with curls or berries. Guests can enjoy them in two or three spoonfuls and move right along.
47. Panettone French Toast Bites
Italian Christmas bread soaks up an egg custard, then cooks into golden cubes with hints of citrus and raisin. Dust with sugar for a snowy effect. Serve with warm maple syrup for dipping. These bites straddle breakfast and dessert in the best way.
48. Festive Caprese Christmas Tree Platter
Arrange alternating rows of tomato and mozzarella in narrowing lines to mimic a tree. Basil leaves tuck in as the green “branches.” Drizzle balsamic reduction in a zigzag for a garland effect. It’s a visual centerpiece that also tastes bright and fresh.
49. Honey-Glazed Ham Sliders
Sweet glazed ham slices stack neatly in soft rolls for effortless serving. A quick mustard-butter spread adds tang and moisture. Brush the bun tops with a hint more honey before warming to give them shine. They’re just as good at room temperature, handy for longer parties.
50. Shortbread Stars with Citrus Glaze
Buttery shortbread cut into stars brings instant holiday cheer. A light citrus glaze keeps the texture crisp while adding zing. The cookies store well in tins, so bake ahead and glaze the morning of the event. Arrange them in a tree shape on a platter for extra charm.
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.