The holiday season is just around the corner, and it’s time to start thinking about delicious snacks to serve at your next gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to have some tasty treats on hand for your family and friends, these 20 irresistible holiday snack recipes are sure to please.
From classic Christmas cookies to creative twists on traditional favorites, we’ve got you covered with our collection of sweet and savory snacks. From peppermint-infused popcorn to caramel apple nachos with holiday sprinkles, there’s something for everyone on this list.
In the following pages, we’ll share 20 festive holiday snack recipes that are sure to make your gathering a hit. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, get cozy by the fire, and start planning your snacking strategy…
Peppermint Chocolate Bark Popcorn
Transform ordinary popcorn into a festive treat with this refreshing peppermint chocolate bark-inspired recipe. Perfect for holiday gatherings or movie nights!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popped popcorn (unsalted)
– 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup crushed candy canes (peppermint)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn and set aside.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Stir in the crushed candy canes.
4. Pour the melted white chocolate mixture over the popped popcorn and stir until coated.
5. Melt the milk chocolate chips in a separate microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
6. Drizzle the melted milk chocolate over the popcorn mixture.
7. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
8. Let set at room temperature or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is a snap to prepare and requires no cooking time at all.
Cranberry White Chocolate Energy Bites
Boost your energy with these tasty and nutritious bites! Made with rolled oats, white chocolate chips, and dried cranberries, these treats are perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the oats and dried cranberries.
2. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the white chocolate chips and honey, stirring until smooth.
3. Pour the melted mixture over the oat mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Drop by spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These energy bites are ready in no time.
Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread
Elevate your snack game with this gooey, garlicky masterpiece. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in, this pull-apart bread is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of French bread (14-16 inches)
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the French bread into 1-inch thick pieces.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
4. Spread the garlic-butter mixture evenly onto each piece of bread, making sure to get both sides.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the garlic-butter mixture.
6. Place the bread pieces into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving some space between each piece.
7. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Glazed Pecans with Rosemary
Elevate your snack game with this unique combination of sweet maple glaze and savory rosemary. These addictive pecans are perfect for movie nights, parties, or just a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 2 teaspoons)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together maple syrup and olive oil until smooth.
3. Add chopped rosemary and stir until well combined.
4. Add pecan halves to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the glaze.
5. Spread pecans on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until fragrant and caramelized, stirring halfway through.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Maple Glazed Pecans with Rosemary!
Holiday Spiced Nuts with Cinnamon and Sugar
Kick off your holiday gatherings with a sweet and spicy treat that’s easy to make and perfect for snacking. These cinnamon-sugar coated nuts are a delicious combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add the mixed nuts to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the spice mixture.
4. Pour in the melted butter and continue to toss until the nuts are well-coated.
5. Spread the nut mixture on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the nuts are toasted and fragrant.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mini Sausage and Cheese Balls
Mini Sausage and Cheese Balls: A Bite-Sized Party Pleaser!
These bite-sized morsels are perfect for parties, snacks, or as a quick appetizer. They’re easy to make, flavorful, and fun to eat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mini sausage links (such as Jimmy Dean)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine sausage links, shredded cheese, panko breadcrumbs, beaten egg, and milk. Mix until well combined.
3. Use your hands or a spoon to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly browned.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Dark Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Santas
Sweet Treat Alert: Dark Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Santas!
These adorable treats combine the classic combination of dark chocolate and fresh strawberries with a festive holiday twist. Perfect for your next holiday gathering or as a special treat for loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon shortening (such as coconut oil or vegetable shortening)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
2. Dip each strawberry slice into the melted chocolate, coating about half of the fruit.
3. Place the dipped strawberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
5. Just before serving, dust with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: None! These treats are best served fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Gingerbread Spiced Trail Mix
Warm up with a sweet and spicy treat that’s perfect for snacking on-the-go! This Gingerbread Spiced Trail Mix is packed with nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, all tossed in a blend of aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1/4 cup gingerbread spice mix
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup pretzel sticks, broken into pieces
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine nuts, cranberries, and pumpkin seeds.
2. In a small bowl, mix together gingerbread spice mix, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Pour the spice mixture over the nut mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
4. Add pretzel sticks and stir until well combined.
5. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and enjoy!
Baked Brie with Fig Jam and Walnuts
This simple yet impressive recipe combines creamy brie cheese with sweet fig jam and crunchy walnuts, perfect for your next gathering or party. The result is a rich and savory treat that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (8 oz)
– 1/4 cup fig jam
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Place the brie cheese in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
4. Drizzle fig jam over the cheese, followed by chopped walnuts and a drizzle of honey.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Puff Pastry Christmas Tree Appetizer
Add a touch of festive flair to your holiday party with this elegant and easy-to-make puff pastry Christmas tree appetizer. Perfect for serving at cocktail parties or as a delicious snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into a triangle shape, with the base of the triangle being approximately 12 inches wide.
3. Spread cream cheese mixture down the center of the triangle, leaving a 1-inch border on each side.
4. Arrange cherry tomatoes along the cream cheese layer. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and parsley.
5. Roll the pastry into a tree shape, starting from the base. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramel Apple Nachos with Holiday Sprinkles
Get ready to elevate your snack game with this unique recipe that combines the classic flavors of caramel apples with the fun of nachos. This sweet and crunchy treat is perfect for holiday gatherings or as a special treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, sliced
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon powder
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg powder
– Holiday sprinkles (such as red and green nonpareils or edible glitter)
– Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced apples and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples and then sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg.
5. Place apple slices on top of tortilla chips.
6. Sprinkle holiday sprinkles over the apples.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until caramel is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Chickpeas
Looking for a tasty and healthy snack that’s perfect for on-the-go? Look no further! These Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Chickpeas are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the chickpeas and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, cinnamon, sugar, and salt.
3. Add the chickpeas to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Spread the chickpeas on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until crispy, shaking the pan halfway through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cranberry Pistachio Dark Chocolate Clusters
These bite-sized clusters combine the crunch of pistachios, the tartness of cranberries, and the richness of dark chocolate for a deliciously balanced treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup (50g) chopped fresh or dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup (30g) pistachio halves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon (15g) light corn syrup
– 1 tablespoon (15g) honey
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in cranberries, pistachios, corn syrup, and honey until well combined.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches (5 cm) of space between each cluster.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
6. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None required
Rosemary Parmesan Shortbread Cookies
Rosemary Parmesan Shortbread Cookies: A savory twist on classic shortbread, these buttery cookies are infused with the earthy flavor of rosemary and the nutty taste of parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Stir in rosemary leaves and salt.
4. Gradually add Parmesan cheese and mix until well combined.
5. Add flour and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Snowman Cheese Ball with Pretzel Arms
Get ready to build a fun and festive appetizer or snack with this adorable Snowman Cheese Ball! Perfect for holiday parties, potlucks, or even a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Pretzel rods (for arms)
– White fondant or white chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix cream cheese and cheddar until smooth.
2. Add parsley, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Roll mixture into a ball, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place pretzel rods on either side of the cheese ball to create arms.
5. If desired, use white fondant or white chocolate chips to create eyes and a carrot nose (get creative!).
6. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed – just assemble and serve!
Eggnog Dipped Madeleines
Add a touch of festive cheer to your holiday cookie exchange with these deliciously moist madeleines dipped in rich eggnog-infused chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 3/4 cup (85g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon eggnog
– 1 cup (200g) semisweet chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and egg until smooth. Add eggnog and mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into madeleine molds or mini muffin tin. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave. Dip cooled madeleines into melted chocolate, then dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Honey Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Elevate your appetizer game with this sweet and savory combination of crispy bacon, soft dates, and sticky honey. Perfect for parties or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 pitted dates
– 6 slices of bacon
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the bacon into strips, about 1 inch wide.
3. Wrap each date with a piece of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the bacon-wrapped dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle the honey over the dates and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and caramelized.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peanut Butter Cup Reindeer Cookies
These adorable cookies are perfect for the holiday season, with a peanut butter cup “nose” and chocolate chip eyes. They’re easy to make and fun for kids (and adults!) to decorate.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Peanut butter cups (for noses)
– Chocolate chips (for eyes)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream peanut butter, butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., reindeer antlers).
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between cookies.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Christmas Tree Cheese Platter with Crackers
Christmas Tree Cheese Platter with Crackers Recipe
Bring a festive touch to your holiday gathering with this colorful and easy-to-assemble cheese platter, featuring a Christmas tree design. Perfect for parties or snacks, this platter is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of white cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup of green grapes, halved
– 1/2 cup of red cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup of orange slices, peeled and segmented
– 1/4 cup of yellow crackers (e.g., Wheat Thins or Ritz)
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Arrange the cheese cubes on a large plate or platter to form a Christmas tree shape.
2. Place the green grapes at the base of the “tree” to resemble the evergreen branches.
3. Add the red cherry tomatoes and orange slices in a vertical pattern, alternating between the two colors, to create the tree’s trunk and ornaments.
4. Use the yellow crackers to create a star-shaped border around the cheese tree.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves to add a pop of color and festive flair.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assembly only)
Spiced Hot Chocolate Cookie Dough Bites
Warm up with these Spiced Hot Chocolate Cookie Dough Bites, a sweet treat that combines the comfort of hot chocolate with the indulgence of cookie dough.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon instant hot cocoa mix
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and brown sugar.
2. Add softened butter and vanilla extract; mix until a dough forms.
3. Stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Fold in milk chocolate chips and instant hot cocoa mix.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Serve chilled or frozen.
Cooking Time: None! These bites are best enjoyed straight from the fridge or freezer.
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 20 irresistibly delicious snack recipes! From sweet treats like Peppermint Chocolate Bark Popcorn and Dark Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Santas, to savory bites like Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread and Mini Sausage and Cheese Balls, there’s something for everyone. Plus, indulge in festive flavors like Maple Glazed Pecans with Rosemary, Gingerbread Spiced Trail Mix, and Cranberry Pistachio Dark Chocolate Clusters. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want to satisfy your cravings, these recipes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your season.