17 Make-Ahead Christmas Appetizers for the Weekend

ByMandy

I pulled together 17 appetizers that make Christmas weekends run smoother, especially when you want a spread that doesn’t require last-minute scrambling. You can prep them early, set them aside, and enjoy the day without constantly checking the kitchen. It’s a simple way to keep the holiday pace easier without giving up that cheerful energy.

Deviled eggs with cranberry sauce on a platter.
Classic Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Warm and Gooey Baked Brie

Round baked brie cheese topped with walnuts, fresh thyme, and drizzled honey, served in a wooden container.
Warm and Gooey Baked Brie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Few things bring people together like the cozy charm of this Warm and Gooey Baked Brie. It’s rich, warm, and perfect for sharing during holiday gatherings. Guests are always drawn to its inviting presentation, and the festive vibes it adds to the table are undeniable. This appetizer feels like a holiday tradition waiting to happen.
Get the Recipe: Warm and Gooey Baked Brie

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.

Sharing food feels extra special during the holidays, especially when it’s something like this Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread. The bite-sized portions make it easy for everyone to grab a piece, and the festive flair is hard to miss. It’s the kind of dish people won’t stop complimenting. These little bread bites truly capture the holiday spirit.
Get the Recipe: Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip

Close-up of a baked spinach and artichoke dip in a dark dish, showing a golden brown, bubbly cheese topping with a portion scooped out, revealing the creamy interior.
Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Whether you’re gathered around the table or mingling by the snack bar, this Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip has a way of stealing the spotlight. Its velvety texture and crowd-pleasing appeal turn it into an instant favorite. People love how it adds a comforting flavor to the celebration. This dip feels like the epitome of holiday indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Artichoke Dip

Savory Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

A plate of golden-brown, cheesy sausage balls stacked on top of each other, with one ball partially broken to show the inside texture.
Savory Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Every holiday spread could use a hearty, lovely appetizer like these Savory Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls. They’re warm, bite-sized, and impossible to resist when placed on the table. Guests always seem to come back for seconds (and thirds), which says a lot about their charm. This recipe makes casual gatherings feel just a little more special.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip

A platter of whipped cheese topped with roasted cranberries, chopped herbs, and sliced green onions.
Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Adding energy to your holiday lineup is easy with this Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip. Its bold flavors bring excitement to the table without feeling overwhelming. Guests can’t help but comment on how unique and lively this dish tastes. This dip is perfect for creating fun and memorable moments during festive weekends.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeño Dip

Crispy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks

Someone pulling a mozzarella stick apart and showing the stretchy cheese.
Crispy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Holiday gatherings are all about food people love, and these Crispy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks are always a hit. Their crunchy exterior and gooey inside make them one of the most popular choices at any appetizer spread. Everyone’s hands always seem to reach for more. This recipe brings comforting familiarity to special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Homemade Mozzarella Sticks

Loaded Potato Skins

Potato skins with sour cream and sliced scallions.
Loaded Potato Skins. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

These Loaded Potato Skins bring a perfect mix of comfort and fun to Christmas appetizer tables. Every bite feels satisfying and just indulgent enough, which is why they’re always a favorite. People can’t seem to resist their warm, hearty crunch, making them one of the first things to disappear. This dish is a party classic for good reason.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins

Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Smashed potatoes on parchment paper, with dollops of sauce and sprigs of dill.
Crispy Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

With their golden, crispy edges and festive touch, these Crispy Smashed Potatoes are a holiday crowd pleaser. Whether paired with other appetizers or enjoyed on their own, their warm, approachable charm really stands out. Guests love how simple yet delicious they taste. This recipe always feels like the perfect complement to the season’s festivities.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread

A bowl of tomato-based dip garnished with chopped parsley and walnuts, with pita bread pieces on the side.
Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

For something different yet cozy, this Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread adds a flavorful twist to any holiday spread. Its rich, smoky notes create a warm vibe that fits right into festive gatherings. Guests always seem curious before the first bite, and impressed after. This appetizer delivers variety without being complicated.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Muhammara with Pita Bread

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms with crispy shallots and parsley.
Savory Stuffed Mushrooms. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When appetizers feel transformed yet familiar, they become instant crowd favorites, just like these Savory Stuffed Mushrooms. Serve them to bring a touch of elegance to your gathering without sacrificing bite-sized comfort. Guests always seem to enjoy the mix of flavors in every bite. This dish belongs on every holiday appetizer table.
Get the Recipe: Savory Stuffed Mushrooms

Festive Christmas Cheese Trees

Close-up of sliced cheese coated with mixed herbs and chopped nuts on parchment paper, resembling charming Christmas cheese trees.
Festive Christmas Cheese Trees. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

The festive look of these Festive Christmas Cheese Trees makes them just as fun to serve as they are to eat. Decorated with holiday flair, they brighten up any appetizer table with their cheerful presentation. Guests can never resist commenting on how cute and seasonal they are.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Cheese Trees

Reindeer Mini Cheese Balls

Cheese balls coated with chopped nuts, topped with cranberries and pretzels, arranged on a white plate near a small artificial pine tree.
Reindeer Mini Cheese Balls. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Playful and festive, these Reindeer Mini Cheese Balls are the perfect addition to holiday weekend gatherings. Their whimsical design makes everyone smile even before taking a bite; it’s hard not to love seeing them on the table. Their charm adds personality to any menu. This recipe is a fun way to bring holiday cheer to every bite.
Get the Recipe: Reindeer Mini Cheese Balls

Classic Party Cheese Ball

A cheese ball on a cutting board with crackers.
Classic Party Cheese Ball. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

The timeless simplicity of this Classic Party Cheese Ball makes it a must-have for holiday gatherings. Whether paired with crackers or just alone, its rich flavor always wins people over. Guests often flock to it, keeping it as a centerpiece of any appetizer spread. This dish is nostalgic and comforting for the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Classic Party Cheese Ball

Elegant Crostini Appetizers

Toasted bread topped with smoked salmon, capers, cheese, walnuts, and herbs on a decorative silver tray.
Elegant Crostini Appetizers. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When it comes to appetizers that feel chic but approachable, these Elegant Crostini Appetizers fit the bill perfectly. Their refined presentation adds a nice touch to holiday tables, making people feel like they’re part of something special. Guests enjoy them for both their flavor and style. This appetizer feels tailored for festive moments.
Get the Recipe: Elegant Crostini Appetizers

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.

For a cheerful and conversation-worthy snack, this Pineapple Cheese Ball adds just the right amount of holiday personality to your spread. Its unique shape and playful presentation are always a talking point among guests. People love its creative appeal almost as much as they enjoy the taste. This recipe is perfect for bringing joy to the table.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Cheese Ball

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.

The holidays deserve appetizers that feel polished but inviting, like these Crispy Mini Hasselback Potatoes. They always stand out on the table thanks to their impressive appearance and satisfying crunch. Guests love picking them up as part of a festive bite. This recipe adds elegance without any fuss to your holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Mini Hasselback Potatoes

Classic Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs with cranberry sauce on a platter.
Classic Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

These Classic Deviled Eggs are a no-fail crowd pleaser and belong on every Christmas appetizer table. Their bite-sized simplicity makes them easy to serve and even easier to enjoy. Always familiar and approachable, they’re quickly snapped up by guests. This appetizer is a celebration of timeless holiday traditions.
Get the Recipe: Classic Deviled Eggs

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