12 Easy Christmas Party Food Ideas (Appetizers and Snacks)

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Planning a Christmas party and need food that is easy to make and easy to eat? These are simple appetizers, finger foods and snacks from the Bananuts kitchen that work for family get-togethers, office parties and game nights.

There is a good mix of vegetarian options, a few make-ahead recipes, and some quick ideas you can put together on the day.

Click any recipe name to open the full recipe with ingredients, timings and tips.

1. Cranberry Brie Bites

Puff pastry cups with melted brie, cranberry sauce, pecans and rosemary. Festive, bite-sized and quick to put together.

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2. Crispy Baked Potato Skins

Crisp potato shells loaded with cheddar and scallions. Always a favorite on a party table.

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3. Mexican Street Corn Cups

Charred corn in a creamy, tangy dressing with cheese and chilli, served in small cups so guests can grab and go.

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4. Paneer Tikka Skewers

Smoky marinated paneer with peppers and onions on skewers. A great vegetarian starter.

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5. Chilli Paneer Bites

Crispy paneer tossed in a spicy, tangy sauce. Serve with toothpicks for easy snacking.

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6. Crispy Paneer Pakoras

Paneer fingers in a spiced besan batter, fried until golden. Serve hot with green chutney.

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7. Baked Samosas

All the flavor of samosas, baked or air fried instead of deep fried. Easy to prepare ahead of the party.

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8. Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Crispy seasoned wedges made in the air fryer. Put out a few dips and they disappear fast.

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9. Easy Homemade Hummus

Extra smooth hummus with pantry ingredients. Add veggies and crackers for an easy party platter.

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10. Crispy Roasted Chickpeas

Crunchy chickpeas with smoked paprika, garlic and cumin, in the oven or air fryer. A simple snack bowl for guests.

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11. Soft Dinner Rolls

Fluffy butter rolls you can make ahead. They go well with any Christmas dinner spread.

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12. Homemade Hot Chocolate

A warm drink for guests: rich hot chocolate in 10 minutes, with ideas to set up a hot cocoa bar.

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How to Plan Easy Christmas Party Food

• Count on 4 to 6 bites per guest per hour for an appetizer-only party.
• Mix hot and cold: pair hot bites like pakoras or potato skins with cold dips like hummus.
• Make ahead: dinner rolls, hummus and roasted chickpeas can be ready the day before.
• Add something sweet: see our easy Christmas cookies and treats.