35 New Year’s Eve Appetizer Ideas Perfect for Sharing as the Clock Winds Down

Excitement builds as New Year’s Eve gets close, and it always feels right to have snacks handy for everyone. With 35 appetizer ideas here, every kind of gathering gets a boost of cheer. These fit right in at anything from a small hangout to a packed house as midnight approaches. Good food just seems to make the countdown that much better.

Three sesame seed buns filled with melted cheese and ground beef are arranged on a wooden board. — Hamburger Sliders. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Scallion Pancakes

Some dishes just seem to draw people closer to the snack table, and these Scallion Pancakes do exactly that. Offering them up feels like an instant icebreaker for any party. I notice everyone wants to break off a piece and come back for more. There’s something about these pancakes that brings a cozy, welcoming feel to a busy New Year’s Eve night.
Get the Recipe: Scallion Pancakes

Crispy Egg Roll

A wooden tray with spring rolls and lime wedges lined with parchment paper sits next to a small bowl of dipping sauce on a light surface. — Crispy Egg Roll. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Unwrapping one of these Crispy Egg Roll appetizers at a celebration feels like a little present you get to eat. Each bite brings a crunch that makes stopping at just one truly difficult. The familiar shapes never stick around for long on any buffet spread. Everyone seems to sneak an extra one before heading back to watch the clock.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Egg Roll

Fluffy Whipped Feta Dip

A bowl of creamy dip garnished with chopped black olives, sun-dried tomatoes, pine nuts, rosemary, olive oil, and black pepper. — Fluffy Whipped Feta Dip. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Party guests search for this Fluffy Whipped Feta Dip as soon as the appetizers roll out. The creamy texture feels special and makes simple snacks taste extra good. I find myself reaching for more chips every time this dip is nearby. Sharing something so easy yet flavorful just makes ringing in the new year a bit more memorable.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Whipped Feta Dip

Crispy Candied Tanghulu

Skewers of grapes and strawberries coated in a shiny glaze are arranged on a light surface with loose fruit pieces nearby. — Crispy Candied Tanghulu. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A plate piled high with this Crispy Candied Tanghulu catches the eye right away on the appetizer table. Their shiny, sweet exterior and unexpected crunch get people talking. Friends often ask where I found the idea, since it’s not what you usually see at parties. Bright colors and exciting texture help set a playful tone for the evening.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Candied Tanghulu

Bite-Sized Mini Tacos

A plate of beef tacos topped with cheese, tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro, served with avocado sauce and lime wedges. A bowl of cilantro and a jar lid are next to the plate. — Bite-Sized Mini Tacos. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Parties always seem a little more festive with this Bite-Sized Mini Tacos making the rounds. The bite-sized shape invites everyone to grab a few without feeling too full. I’m always asked if there’s more in the kitchen, since these don’t last long. Perfect for sharing, they make every gathering feel relaxed and fun.
Get the Recipe: Bite-Sized Mini Tacos

Buffalo Chicken Sliders

A stack of slider sandwiches filled with shredded chicken and melted cheese, topped with herbs, on a light surface. — Buffalo Chicken Sliders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Energy ramps up when this Buffalo Chicken Sliders hits the snack table at a big celebration. Each slider packs bold flavor, which fits the excitement of the night. People start chatting about where these have been hiding all year. Smaller portions let everyone try one before heading back for their favorites again.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Sliders

Crispy Mini Hasselback Potatoes

A plate of sliced, roasted baby potatoes is garnished with herbs. A small bowl of creamy sauce is placed in the center. — Crispy Mini Hasselback Potatoes. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Guests eye this Crispy Mini Hasselback Potatoes as soon as they hit the table; there’s something about the look of them that feels just right for a party. The crispy edges and tender bite keep everyone interested. Because these are small, people always reach for a second helping. Watching the plate empty out so fast never gets old.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Mini Hasselback Potatoes

Savory Turkey Pinwheels

Savory Turkey Pinwheels. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Guests have a hard time passing up this Savory Turkey Pinwheels once they spot them. Each slice is easy to pick up, encouraging everyone to mingle and eat at the same time. I see the platter empty out before anyone gets bored of mingling. Little bites like these deliver just enough bold taste to make things interesting.
Get the Recipe: Savory Turkey Pinwheels

Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

A baked pull-apart bread ring with melted cheese and cranberries on a gray plate, garnished with rosemary sprigs. — Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Nothing draws a crowd like this Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread once it’s set out. The gooey cheese and tart touch add a festive vibe that feels special for New Year’s Eve. I love seeing people pull pieces apart and share smiles. Warm bread makes you want to gather around, even as the evening rushes toward midnight.
Get the Recipe: Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Crispy Crab Rangoon

A bowl of fried wontons served with a side of red dipping sauce and a small dish of chopped green onions. — Crispy Crab Rangoon. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Everyone recognizes this Crispy Crab Rangoon as soon as it appears; there’s something unmistakable about their golden look and shape. Each bite brings that familiar crunch everyone seems to crave. I notice people pause and smile after the first bite, and suddenly the room feels more upbeat. The plate never lasts very long on any table.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Crab Rangoon

Shrimp Spring Rolls

Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, purple cabbage, carrots, greens, and topped with chopped peanuts and peanut sauce, served on a plate. — Shrimp Spring Rolls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

I bring out this Shrimp Spring Rolls when the party needs a light and refreshing twist. People appreciate a break from heavier snacks and reach for these often. Biting into something fresh helps balance out the table. These rolls always spark conversation thanks to their bright colors and cool texture.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Spring Rolls

Savory Sausage Balls

Plate of crispy fried dumplings with chopped herbs, served with a bowl of brown dipping sauce. — Savory Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

The arrival of this Savory Sausage Balls on the buffet tells everyone the real fun is about to start. These little bites disappear like magic as soon as they are served. Their hearty flavor keeps folks lingering nearby for just one more pick. It’s always fun to watch the serving bowl empty out faster than expected.
Get the Recipe: Savory Sausage Balls

Flaky Pigs in a Blanket

Pigs in a Blanket, small sausages wrapped in puff pastry, baked until golden brown, and sprinkled with coarse salt are displayed on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. — Flaky Pigs in a Blanket. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

I usually find that this Flaky Pigs in a Blanket brings out a wave of nostalgia and excitement at New Year’s parties. Generous helpings go fast because everyone knows and loves them. Conversation flows easily when people spot their favorite bite-sized snacks nearby. Classics like these always anchor a memorable night of sharing.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Pigs in a Blanket

Pineapple Cheese Ball

A round cheese ball coated in chopped nuts, garnished with a sprig of rosemary, sits on a wooden board with crackers beside it; a portion is scooped out. — Pineapple Cheese Ball. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sheltering a surprise inside, this Pineapple Cheese Ball draws attention from every guest wandering by the snack table. The blend of fruity and creamy flavors sparks curiosity and compliments. Sharing is easy since people love gathering around to dip together. It turns any gathering into a cheerful celebration, even before the big moment.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Cheese Ball

Fresh Rice Paper Rolls

Close-up of sliced spring rolls filled with rice, avocado, purple cabbage, and sesame seeds, arranged on a white plate. — Fresh Rice Paper Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bright colors and crisp texture help this Fresh Rice Paper Rolls stand out from the rest. The lightness feels refreshing as guests start making their rounds. These rolls are a go-to when people want to snack without feeling weighed down. Cheerful reactions usually follow after that first bite, making healthy options a surprising hit.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Rice Paper Rolls

Flaky Sausage Pinwheels

Close-up of several baked puff pastry pinwheels filled with minced meat, arranged on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. — Flaky Sausage Pinwheels. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

New Year’s feels incomplete without setting out this Flaky Sausage Pinwheels for everyone to grab. Spiraled layers not only look appealing, but they also deliver perfect bite-sized portions. I love watching people hang around the platter just a little longer. Lively chatter seems to kick up the minute these hit the table.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Sausage Pinwheels

Creamy Lebanese Baba Ganoush

A bowl of hummus topped with olives and herbs, with a piece of pita bread being dipped into it. — Creamy Lebanese Baba Ganoush. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Lively gatherings benefit from this Creamy Lebanese Baba Ganoush on the spread. The smooth consistency makes dipping a treat, no matter what you pick. Each dip sparks a little curiosity and brings a welcome change from the norm. People often go back for seconds, making this dip a subtle star by midnight.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Lebanese Baba Ganoush

Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Close-up of baked pinwheel appetizers filled with cheese and ham, topped with black pepper and garnished with sliced green onions. — Ham and Cheese Pinwheels. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Freshly rolled and easy to share, this Ham and Cheese Pinwheels fill plates and conversations at any festive gathering. They just seem to invite extra smiles all around. The flavor combination never fails to win over both kids and adults. Setting out a tray guarantees you’ll be refilling it soon after.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Hot and Crispy Pizza Rolls

Freshly made pizza rolls stacked on each other. — Hot and Crispy Pizza Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

The sound of laughter grows louder when this Hot and Crispy Pizza Rolls shows up. It feels nearly impossible to eat only one because each roll brings a little burst of flavor. In just a few minutes, you’ll notice empty plates piling up. Pizza snacks really set a fun mood for the countdown party.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Crispy Pizza Rolls

Melty Ham and Cheese Sliders

Close-up of four ham and cheese sliders on sesame seed buns, arranged in two stacks. The cheese is melting and oozing out of the sides, making these Ham and Cheese Sliders irresistible. — Melty Ham and Cheese Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

The moment you pull apart this Melty Ham and Cheese Sliders, there’s an ooey-gooey moment everyone wants a piece of. A pan of these sets the mood for a cozy, welcoming party. Guests stay close by, hoping for another taste before they vanish. The crowd-pleasing combo fits every year-end gathering so well.
Get the Recipe: Melty Ham and Cheese Sliders

Fresh Caprese Pesto Tarts

Fresh cherry tomatoes and herbs served in crispy puff pastry cups on a wooden surface. — Fresh Caprese Pesto Tarts. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A platter of this Fresh Caprese Pesto Tarts brings color and cheer to the spread. Bright little bites feel light but offer just enough richness to feel fancy. I notice people reaching for more, eager to try something new. These tarts easily turn basic snacking into a fun tradition you’ll look forward to repeating.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Caprese Pesto Tarts

Savory Roast Beef Sliders

Close-up of a fork lifting a beef sandwich topped with sesame seeds on a soft bun, with more sandwiches in the background. — Savory Roast Beef Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Big parties call for something like this Savory Roast Beef Sliders that feels both hearty and simple. Each mini sandwich vanishes quickly, so setting out extras is always a smart move. Guests appreciate having a filling snack as midnight draws near. It’s hard not to feel satisfied after grabbing one between all that laughter and noise.
Get the Recipe: Savory Roast Beef Sliders

Spicy Boom Boom Sauce

A small glass jar filled with creamy pink sauce, with a spoon lifting out some sauce. Lettuce, pickles, and napkins are visible nearby. — Spicy Boom Boom Sauce. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Dipping into this Spicy Boom Boom Sauce gets the conversation rolling at any year-end bash. People are surprised at how it makes familiar snacks even more exciting. There’s a little kick that keeps you guessing with every bite. Serving this sauce guarantees everyone wants to know what else they can try it with next.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Boom Boom Sauce

Rich Oreo Cheesecake

A slice of cookies and cream cheesecake is being lifted from a plate. The cake has a crumbly cookie crust, creamy filling with cookie pieces, and a topping of crushed cookies. — Rich Oreo Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Dessert takes on a festive twist with this Rich Oreo Cheesecake standing front and center. Each creamy slice turns the end of the year into a true occasion. I always hear people guessing about the secret to its smooth texture. Sharing this treat brings out those “wow” moments that make New Year’s feel special.
Get the Recipe: Rich Oreo Cheesecake

Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders

Close-up of a pulled pork sandwich with pickles and red cabbage on a bun, held in hand, with chips in the background. — Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Plates fill up quickly when this Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders appears on the table. The aroma alone draws friends and guests toward them. These sliders feel tropical and fun, giving the party a bit of vacation flair. Bringing something a little different helps keep New Year’s Eve fresh and exciting for everyone.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sliders

Veggie Christmas Charcuterie Board

A holiday-themed platter with bowls of hummus, yogurt dip, nuts, grapes, breadsticks, and crackers, decorated with festive greenery and red ribbons. — Veggie Christmas Charcuterie Board. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

I like to put out this Veggie Christmas Charcuterie Board when I want to brighten up the appetizer table. Colorful veggies look just as festive as any twinkle light. People wander over, picking their favorites while chatting. Options like this mean every guest feels included and welcomed throughout the night.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Christmas Charcuterie Board

Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies

A close-up of Bacon Wrapped Sugar Smokies, held together with toothpicks and cooked to a crispy finish. — Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Mini favorites like this Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies vanish almost as soon as they arrive. Crisped to perfection, they hit the spot while people mix, mingle, and wait for the new year. I notice the platter shrinking in no time. Flavor-packed bites like these signal that celebration is officially underway.
Get the Recipe: Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Warm and Gooey Baked Brie

A baked brie with walnuts and thyme, with a jar of honey next to it. — Warm and Gooey Baked Brie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Slicing into this Warm and Gooey Baked Brie instantly starts the “oohs and aahs” around the table. The creamy inside makes everyone want to linger and snack a bit longer. Sharing this with a group feels cozy and inviting. If you enjoy seeing smiles before midnight, this is always the right choice.
Get the Recipe: Warm and Gooey Baked Brie

Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Close-up of several Bacon Jalapeno Popper Cheese Balls wrapped in bacon, stuffed with cheese, and seasoned with herbs and spices, placed on crumpled parchment paper. — Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

The first arrival at the snack table usually involves someone reaching for this Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls. Each bite mixes bold flavors with just the right amount of kick. Friends remember these long after the party ends. Serving something with a little spark keeps everyone guessing what’s next.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels

A plate of tortilla pinwheels filled with a creamy mixture, garnished with herbs, served with bowls of salsa and breadcrumbs. — Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Big flavors steal the show with this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels. The fun, spiral shape grabs attention almost instantly, drawing hungry eyes across the room. Late-night guests appreciate a snack that packs a punch without being too much. Everyone asks where to find these for their next party.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels

Juicy Cheeseburger Sliders

Close-up of a partially eaten burger with cheese in a bun, showing the meat patty's texture. — Juicy Cheeseburger Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Nothing says “crowd-pleaser” quite like this Juicy Cheeseburger Sliders. They look so classic and tempting, drawing a line of guests back for seconds and thirds. Parties stay lively as hands fill up with mini burgers all night. This classic flavor guarantees you’ll end the year on a high note.
Get the Recipe: Juicy Cheeseburger Sliders

Spiral Pinwheel Sandwiches

Close-up of several tortilla pinwheel wraps filled with various ingredients including spinach, cream cheese, tomatoes, and other vegetables, arranged neatly on a white surface. — Spiral Pinwheel Sandwiches. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Every time this Spiral Pinwheel Sandwiches shows up at a get-together, it’s met with excitement. The colorful swirls make the platter look festive and fun for all ages. Quick to grab and easy to share, these sandwiches are a go-to for hungry crowds. Watching people happily munch adds energy to the countdown.
Get the Recipe: Spiral Pinwheel Sandwiches

Tangy Key Lime Bars

A close-up of dessert bars with a crumbly crust, creamy filling, and whipped topping, garnished with lime slices in the background. — Tangy Key Lime Bars. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Dessert fans won’t want to skip this Tangy Key Lime Bars when it arrives. Each square packs a bright punch, finishing up the appetizer round with a fresh twist. Sharing these before midnight gives everyone one last treat before the celebrations peak. Citrus flavors keep things lively, even as the night winds down.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Key Lime Bars

Spiral Italian Sub Pinwheels

A plate of tortilla pinwheel sandwiches filled with spinach, cream cheese, red peppers, and herbs, neatly stacked and garnished with parsley. — Spiral Italian Sub Pinwheels. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Classic sandwich lovers immediately spot this Spiral Italian Sub Pinwheels on the tray. The bite-sized spirals make mingling easier for everyone. With each pass, more hands reach out to try one, bringing a smile every time. New Year’s Eve turns even more fun with snacks that never get old.
Get the Recipe: Spiral Italian Sub Pinwheels

Hamburger Sliders

Big energy nights feel complete once this Hamburger Sliders finds its way to the table. Mini burgers deliver that familiar comfort, perfect for welcoming another year with friends. Plates are cleared faster than expected because no one wants to miss out. There’s just something about sliders that makes every party better.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Sliders