Need help deciding which New Year's Eve appetizers to make for your party? These one-bite apps, hand-held snacks and mini desserts will stand out on any table, no matter where you are when the clock strikes midnight.
With a countdown ending the night, there’s a lot on the line when hosting a New Year’s Eve party. Did you choose the right New Year’s Eve traditions? Do you have your resolutions ready? Will you get kissed when the clock strikes midnight? And—most importantly—how are your New Year’s Eve appetizers holding up?
Food sets the stage for any party, but we find ourselves exhausted with sit-down holiday dinners by the time New Year’s Eve rolls around. Leaning on New Year’s Eve appetizers is a fantastic way to combat this. Think light bites like crudite boards and whipped dips, decadent but portable finger foods like quick and easy puff pastry appetizers, or anything on a skewer or toothpick. Or go the sweet route and create a table lined with mini desserts, including cream puffs, cheesecakes and peanut butter-chocolate treats.
The foods in this collection will lay the foundation for a party that you’ll actually get to enjoy. We’ve hand-selected the best New Year’s Eve appetizers that work whether you’re attending a sparkly soiree or just hanging out in your jammies while you watch the ball drop. Just be sure there’s a bottle of bubbly to pop right before midnight—even the best cheap champagne will feel extra-celebratory.
1/52
Whipped Feta Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
The base of this whipped feta dip is a fantastic blank canvas for different flavors. This version is flavored with garlic and lemon. —Dawn Parker, Surrey, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts:
2 tablespoons: 85 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 311mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
Light and creamy, whipped feta makes a great dip for the center of a colorful crudite platter. Herbaceous Greek seasoning and citrusy lemon cut through the salty richness of the whipped yogurt and feta mixture, and fresh mint adds a nice brightness.
2/52
Crab Dip
From the Recipe Creator:
Made with lump crabmeat, Old Bay seasoning, cream cheese and chives, this baked crab dip makes the perfect appetizer! Make it dairy-free using plant-based nondairy cream cheese and dairy-free cheddar cheese. If desired, top it with diced green onions as a substitute for chives. —Jennifer Gilbert, Brighton, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 149 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 46mg cholesterol, 345mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 7g protein.
If you’re really looking to impress, set out a seafood appetizer at your New Year’s Eve party. This crab dip needs only about 15 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes in the oven. After that, you’ll have a cheesy, warming crab dip that guests will stand over—tortilla chips in hand—all night.
3/52
Apple-Gouda Pigs in a Blanket
From the Recipe Creator:
For New Year’s, I used to make pigs in a blanket with beef and cheddar. But now I like apple and Gouda for an even better flavor celebration. —Megan Weiss, Menomonie, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 82 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 203mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
Every time I look at this recipe, I think of the next excuse I can use to bake it. Luckily, it’s perfect for a New Year’s Eve party. Made with buttery crescent dough, smoky sausages, nutty Gouda and sweet apples, this pigs in a blanket recipe is beautifully complex. The honey mustard dipping sauce ties it all together.
4/52
Cheese Lover’s Fondue
From the Recipe Creator:
French bread cubes and apples are the perfect dippers for this classic fondue made with white wine and Swiss and Gruyere cheeses. It’s a crowd-pleaser. —Linda Vogel, Elgin, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 196 calories, 12g fat (8g saturated fat), 42mg cholesterol, 127mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 12g protein.
If you made the effort to put out cheese fondue, congratulations: You just threw the best New Year’s Eve party ever! Gruyere and Swiss cheeses are melted with dry white wine and flavored with aromatics. Make sure it sits in a fondue pot all night to stay warm, and serve it with smoked sausages, dill pickles, crunchy pretzels and cubed bread.
5/52
Cinnamon Praline Nuts
From the Recipe Creator:
Take these crunchy bites anywhere! Serve them at your holiday party, wrap up a batch for your favorite hostess or sneak some for a midnight snack. They get gobbled up so quickly that you'll want to make several batches! —Amy Miller, Holstein, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 227 calories, 20g fat (3g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 5mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein
Holiday spiced nuts are a nice little snack to have throughout the night. Don’t put them out on the buffet table; instead, place them on a coffee table or side table so guests can casually snack all night.
6/52
Crumb-Topped Clams
From the Recipe Creator:
In my family, it wouldn't be Christmas Eve without baked clams. However, they make a special bite for any occasion and are easy to make and always a hit. —Annmarie Lucente, Monroe, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 clam: 31 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 35mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
Shucking clams takes a little finesse at first, but you’ll quickly pick up on the technique after the first two. Once they’re open, fill them with a bread crumb mixture and brown them under the broiler. If you can find them, serve the baked clams with tiny little forks. These one-bite wonders will become one of the most memorable appetizers at your party.
7/52
Puff Pastry Holly Leaves
From the Recipe Creator:
These elegant appetizers always get rave reviews at my office holiday party. The pastry leaves look as if they require hours in the kitchen, but the prep work takes just 30 minutes. —Angela King, Walnut Cove, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 151 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 191mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein.
For those who firmly believe that Christmas festivities can extend to New Year’s Eve, this one’s for you! These holly-shaped little bites are assembled with premade puff pastry and a simple cheese, pesto and parsley filling. In my experience, this type of appetizer is usually gone within the first hour.
8/52
Pizza Muffins
From the Recipe Creator:
I just baked these mini pizzas and the kids are already demanding more. The no-cook pizza sauce and refrigerated dough make this meal a snap. —Melissa Haines, Valparaiso, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
2 muffin cups with 2 tablespoons sauce: 209 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 747mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 10g protein.
Pizza is a hit no matter the holiday, and this hand-held mini version makes mingling and snacking that much easier. If your other appetizers aren’t very filling, definitely make sure these are on the table.
9/52
Mini Cream Puffs
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe is quick and easy to whip up, and the kids will love it! The mini cream puffs are perfect to pack for a picnic or to have as a snack for family game night. I guarantee you can't eat just one—they are so addictive and perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth! —Jennifer Erwin, Reynoldsburg, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 filled cream puff: 52 calories, 3g fat (2g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 64mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
For a party that’s more of a soiree, fancier desserts will complement the champagne cocktails. Cream puffs are also known as profiteroles in France, where they originated. They’re decadent right to their custard core, but they can also be filled with whipped cream or ice cream if you don’t want to mess with making custard. J’adore!
10/52
Mini Burgers with the Works
From the Recipe Creator:
I started preparing these mini burgers several years ago as a creative way to use up bread crusts accumulating in my freezer. They're delicious. —Linda Lane, Bennington, Vermont
Nutrition Facts:
1 burger: 68 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 153mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
You can add as many or as few toppings as you’d like to these mini skewer burgers. Either way, they’re going to be a crowd favorite.
11/52
Stuffed Mini Peppers
From the Recipe Creator:
There's plenty of both crunch and cream in these party appetizers. Fresh chives help them really stand out. —Jean McKenzie, Vancouver, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed pepper half: 48 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 68mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
These bites are a cousin to jalapeno poppers but without the spicy kick, which not everyone can handle. Instead, sweet peppers become the crunchy vessel for the cheesy broccoli filling.
12/52
Red Velvet Cake Balls
From the Recipe Creator:
Everyone loves red velvet, but any cake mix can work here. I've even rolled chopped macadamia nuts into pineapple cake and dipped them into white chocolate. Whatever you do, have fun! —Anne Powers, Munford, Alabama
Nutrition Facts:
1 cake ball: 206 calories, 11g fat (7g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 79mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (24g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
Want to make these a bit more themed for the holiday? Once the chocolate has set, brush on food-grade edible gold paint or top each cake ball with a tiny edible gold leaf. Shimmer and shine are the staples of a festive New Year’s Eve party.
13/52
Crab Rangoon
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband loved the appetizers we had at P.F. Chang's so much that I was determined to make them at home. After several more trips to that eatery to taste them again, I had them perfected. I often prepare the filling earlier in the day to save time later. —Cathy Blankman, Warroad, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 rangoon: 61 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 77mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
Ask anyone about their favorite Chinese takeout order, and they’ll almost always say crab rangoon. Well, it turns out that they’re easy to make at home too! If you love the idea but don’t want to pull out the deep fryer, try baked crab rangoon.
14/52
Taco Pinwheels
From the Recipe Creator:
These pinwheels come together quickly when you start with leftover taco meat. They make an appealing party appetizer served with salsa or a fun lunch option with a salad on the side. —Cindy Reams, Philipsburg, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 pinwheel: 51 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 84mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
Keep in mind that some people may show up to your New Year’s Eve party without any dinner in their stomachs. These taco pinwheels are a satiating snack, especially if you serve them alongside chile con queso.
15/52
Mini Cheesecake
From the Recipe Creator:
Presto! We turned cheesecake into irresistible bite-sized snacks with these cute little treats. Feel free to use your favorite flavor of jam. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 mini cheesecake: 198 calories, 13g fat (7g saturated fat), 53mg cholesterol, 141mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
The great aspect of these cheesecakes—besides their hand-held size—is that they taste better the day after they’re baked. That means you can knock out these cheesecakes a day or two before your party and take them out of the fridge whenever you’re ready to serve them.
16/52
Deviled Eggs
From the Recipe Creator:
Herbs lend amazing flavor to these deviled eggs, which truly are the best you can make! The recipe includes tasty variations that feature bacon, chipotle peppers and crab. —Jesse and Anne Foust, Bluefield, West Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed egg half: 73 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 108mg cholesterol, 81mg sodium, 0 carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
To be honest, I can’t think of a single party where deviled eggs wouldn’t be the star. From the Fourth of July to New Year’s Eve, everyone loves to eat deviled eggs. You don’t have to make them plain, either. This recipe includes plenty of variations with fun flavor ideas!
17/52
Ham and Cheese Sliders
From the Recipe Creator:
My next-door neighbor shared this recipe with me and I simply cannot improve it! You can make it ahead and cook it quickly when company arrives. The combo of flavors makes these sandwiches so delicious. —Iris Weihemuller, Baxter, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 315 calories, 17g fat (9g saturated fat), 61mg cholesterol, 555mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 2g fiber), 13g protein.
Sliders toe the line between appetizer and meal, which is exactly what you want to have peppered in between dips and one-bite snacks. This unfussy recipe can be assembled in advance and baked 30 minutes before your guests show up.
18/52
Mini Cheese Balls
From the Recipe Creator:
These mini cheese balls are the perfect quick appetizer for any party. Roll them in toasted sesame seeds, fresh rosemary and/or paprika to add even more flavor. —J. Spivey, Ennice, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1 cheese ball: 47 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 61mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
Talk about a grab-and-go delight: These little cheese balls are hand-held, thanks to the rye crisp stuck into the top of each one. You can roll them in different coatings, too, so guests have options.
19/52
Miniature Peanut Butter Treats
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe is one of my family's favorites, and I make the treats a lot, especially at Christmas. I have three children and eight grandchildren, and every one of them loves these peanut butter thingies, as the grandchildren call them! —Jodie McCoy, Tulsa, Oklahoma
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 108 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 108mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
To make this recipe go even quicker, buy unwrapped peanut butter cups—or call in help from tiny hands to help you unwrap each one. These cookies are akin to peanut butter blossoms but baked in a muffin tin.
20/52
Bacon Cheddar Potato Skins
From the Recipe Creator:
Wondering how to make potato skins taste great? Both crisp and hearty, this restaurant-quality snack is one that my family requests often. —Trish Perrin, Keizer, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1 potato skin: 350 calories, 19g fat (7g saturated fat), 33mg cholesterol, 460mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 4g fiber), 12g protein.
Potato skins are at the top of my list of all-time favorite appetizers. If you want to turn this recipe into a two-for-one, save all the potato pulp to make potato croquettes.
21/52
Sausage Cheese Puffs
From the Recipe Creator:
People are always surprised when I tell them there are only four ingredients in this easy sausage ball recipe. Cheesy and spicy, the golden morsels are a fun novelty at a breakfast or brunch, and they also make yummy party appetizers. —Della Moore, Troy, New York
Nutrition Facts:
1 puff: 89 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 197mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
Cheese puffs are one of those gone-before-you-know-it party appetizers. But if you do end up with any leftovers after midnight, these puffs also taste fantastic for New Year’s Day brunch.
22/52
Fried Prosciutto Tortellini
From the Recipe Creator:
My take on Italian street food, these fried tortellini are crunchy, gooey good. For the sauce, use the best quality tomatoes you can find. —Angela Lemoine, Howell, New Jersey
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 48 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 98mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
Toasted ravioli, meet fried prosciutto tortellini. These two recipes are basically cousins, but this appetizer is a bit fancier because of the prosciutto ricotta tortellini and homemade marinara dipping sauce. It even sounds fancy!
23/52
Holiday Meringue Miniatures
From the Recipe Creator:
My kids love these light melt-in-your-mouth cookies, and we have fun making them. These were always on our Christmas cookie plate when I was a kid, and now the tradition continues. —Susan Marshall, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 meringue: 5 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 19mg sodium, 1g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 0 protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 free food.
Yes, Christmas desserts are definitely allowed on New Year’s Eve. And a dessert as light, delicate and sweet as these mini holiday meringues is a welcome sight at any party.
24/52
Mini Corn Dogs
From the Recipe Creator:
Fun-sized corn dogs add a little wow factor to any cookout or get-together. Kids and adults equally love them, so expect them to disappear fast. —Deb Perry, Bluffton, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 mini corn dog: 68 calories, 6g fat (1g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 136mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
The young and the young-at-heart will go wild for these mini corn dogs. To ensure they’re hot and crispy, fry them just before your guests arrive. Then, serve them with a variety of dipping sauces.
25/52
Korean Wontons
From the Recipe Creator:
Korean wontons (called mandoo) are not hot and spicy like many traditional Korean dishes. Filled with inexpensive vegetables and beef, the fried dumplings are very easy to prepare and so tasty. —Christy Lee, Horsham, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 wonton: 47 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 86mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
One of our best hosting tips is to fill your buffet table with options, including different textures and a range of flavors. These crispy Korean wontons are filled with cabbage, bean sprouts, ground beef and a ton of aromatics. They will break up the monotony from any soft-textured, cheese-based dishes.
26/52
Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Mushrooms
From the Recipe Creator:
I used this recipe when I was in a culinary arts program and had to prepare an entire buffet by myself. It’s an impressive party appetizer yet comes together so easily. —Amy Gaisford, Salt Lake City, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed mushroom: 51 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 116mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
Here is a vegetarian and gluten-free recipe that’s elegant, easy and, oh, so delicious. Stir together the filling, stuff it into the mushrooms and bake. They’ll be ready to serve before you know it.
27/52
Garlic-Herb Mini Quiches
From the Recipe Creator:
Looking for a wonderful way to impress guests? You’ve got it—and you need only five ingredients to make these tasty apps! —Josephine Piro, Easton, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 mini quiche: 31 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 32mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
Using a packet of seasoned Boursin cheese and store-bought phyllo tartlet shells makes it easy to throw together these mini quiches. If you want to make them fancier, our recipe offers variations for a crab rangoon version or a smoky apricot version.
28/52
Miniature Almond Tarts
From the Recipe Creator:
My family requests these adorable little tarts each Christmas. I always enjoy making them since the almond paste in the filling reflects our Dutch heritage. They're super popular at special gatherings. —Karen Van Den Berge, Holland, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 tart: 124 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 51mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
A melt-in-your-mouth cream cheese shell, a marzipan filling and a light frosting are the main components of these mini almond tarts. Like any good dessert, they’re finished with a cherry on top.
29/52
Brie-Leek Tartlets
From the Recipe Creator:
My family is picky, but everyone loves these little bites. I make dozens of them at a time because they're gone the second I turn my back. —Colleen MacDonald, Port Moody, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts:
1 tartlet: 86 calories, 7g fat (4g saturated fat), 21mg cholesterol, 64mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
Elegant appetizers start with fancy ingredients. Fresh leeks and Brie cheese are the main components here, and the mini tart vessels will make people think your event was catered. No one has to know that the shells are from store-bought phyllo dough.
30/52
Caprese Skewers
From the Recipe Creator:
Trade in the usual veggie platter for these fun kabobs. In addition to preparing these for get-togethers, I often make these as snacks for my family. And because assembly is so easy, the kids often ask to help. —Christine Mitchell, Glendora, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 kabob: 44 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 10mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fat.
Caprese salad kabobs are, without a doubt, the easiest New Year’s Eve appetizer you can make. In just 10 minutes you’ll have a plate full of these grab-and-go kabobs that taste like an expensive appetizer at a genuine Italian restaurant.
31/52
Stuffed Asiago-Basil Mushrooms
From the Recipe Creator:
Even if you don't like mushrooms, you will have to try them again with these pretty appetizers, which taste divine. For a main dish, double the filling and use large portobellos. —Lorraine Caland, Shuniah, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 35 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 5mg cholesterol, 50mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
If you struggle to get vegetables on the appetizer table, these stuffed mushrooms have your back. They’re earthy and herbaceous but still warm and comforting since they’re baked with Asiago and Parmesan cheeses.
32/52
Puff Pastry Danish
From the Recipe Creator:
Even though they're simple to make, these jam-filled pastries are right at home in a holiday brunch spread. They were my dad's favorite, so the recipe will always be close to my heart. —Chellie Helmke, Jackson Center, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 pastry: 197 calories, 12g fat (4g saturated fat), 33mg cholesterol, 130mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 3g protein.
These puff pastry danishes are a bit unexpected, making them all the more intriguing at a party. If a sweetened cream cheese and raspberry jam filling is too “brunchy” for you, replace it with Nutella. At that point you’re basically bringing over chocolate-hazelnut croissants. Who could resist?
33/52
Marinated Mozzarella
From the Recipe Creator:
I always come home with an empty container when I take this dish to a party. It can be made ahead to free up time later. I serve it with pretty frilled toothpicks for a festive look. —Peggy Cairo, Kenosha, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1/4 cup: 203 calories, 16g fat (7g saturated fat), 24mg cholesterol, 242mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 12g protein.
Any recipe that needs to marinate is a great make-ahead recipe for a party. Prepare marinated mozzarella a day or two ahead of time, then take it out of the fridge 30 minutes before serving so the oil can come to room temperature.
34/52
Zucchini & Cheese Roulades
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband enjoys this recipe so much that he even helps me roll up the roulades! You can change the filling any way you like—I have used feta instead of Parmesan or sun-dried tomatoes in the place of the olives. —April McKinney, Murfreesboro, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 24 calories, 1g fat (1g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 58mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
Here’s another vegetarian, naturally gluten-free and low-carb appetizer for guests with special diets. For something similar and cozier (but no longer gluten-free), you could swap in eggplant for the zucchini and bake eggplant rollatini with homemade tomato sauce.
35/52
Mini Party Burgers
From the Recipe Creator:
We love finger foods in the South. For parties, I make mini burgers in advance and then wrap them in pastry, bake them and serve them with assorted sauces. —Monica Flatford, Knoxville, Tennessee
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 271 calories, 16 g fat (6 g saturated fat), 54 mg cholesterol, 488 mg sodium, 20 g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 2 g fiber), 11 g protein.
These mini burgers are wrapped in puff pastry instead of being sandwiched in a bun, which makes them easier to hold in just one hand. Keep the filling simple with ranch-seasoned ground beef and Harvarti cheese, then set out several different dipping sauces so everyone can choose their own adventure.
36/52
Meatball Sliders
From the Recipe Creator:
These meatball sliders are a fun way to serve meatballs at your party without using a slow cooker. Made on mini Hawaiian rolls, they have a hint of sweetness to balance out all the wonderful Italian seasonings. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Nutrition Facts:
1 slider: 467 calories, 24g fat (11g saturated fat), 113mg cholesterol, 804mg sodium, 31g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 3g fiber), 31g protein.
This recipe captures the goodness of meatball subs but makes ’em mini! Although premade meatballs would make this recipe quicker, homemade ones make all the difference.
37/52
Buffalo Chicken Crescent Rolls
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband loves Buffalo wings, but they are so messy! These Buffalo chicken rolls are mess-free and always go fast at parties—and, if you ask me, they're much tastier than regular Buffalo wings. —Tiffinie Cichon, Gulfport, Mississippi
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 175 calories, 11g fat (3g saturated fat), 21mg cholesterol, 372mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 0 fiber), 6g protein.
While you can certainly make Buffalo chicken dip and set out a bunch of crackers on the side, these Buffalo chicken crescent rolls are an all-in-one appetizer that requires only one hand to enjoy.
38/52
Toasted Ravioli
From the Recipe Creator:
While visiting a friend who had just moved to St. Louis, Missouri, I tried toasted ravioli at almost every restaurant! When I got home, I had to try to replicate them, and this recipe comes pretty close. —Cristina Carrera, Kenosha, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 73 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 117mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
Toasted ravioli is a St. Louis staple. Crispy, cheesy and savory, they’re especially delicious when skewered on a stick and dipped into marinara sauce or pesto. By the way, “toasted” is code for “deep-fried,” although you can crisp them up in an air fryer if you prefer.
39/52
Buttery Radish Baguette
From the Recipe Creator:
My dad and brother are crazy for radishes, and this peppery baguette appetizer is a big-time favorite. Add a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley on top. —Kathy Hewitt, Cranston, Rhode Island
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer (calculated without sea salt): 76 calories, 4g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 107mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
The combination of radishes, butter and a tiny bit of salt is a classic French snack. Put it on a fresh baguette, and you’ll have a filling appetizer that will ensure your guests won’t leave hungry.
40/52
Garlic Pizza Wedges
From the Recipe Creator:
Our pastor made these for a get-together, and my husband and I just couldn't stay away from the hors d'oeuvres table. The cheesy slices taste great served warm, but they're still wonderful when they've cooled slightly. —Krysten Johnson, Simi Valley, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 119 calories, 8g fat (2g saturated fat), 4mg cholesterol, 193mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 3g protein.
These garlic pizza wedges are akin to flatbread, which is always welcome as a shared appetizer. The red onion, garlic and salty Parmesan create a pungent pizza, so don’t forget the Alfredo sauce for dipping.
41/52
Mini Chimichangas
From the Recipe Creator:
Wish your guests Feliz Navidad with this south-of-the-border specialty! Hearty enough to serve as a meal, these flavorful and filling wraps draw raves whenever I serve them.—Kathy Rogers, Hudson, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 chimichanga: 285 calories, 14g fat (8g saturated fat), 52mg cholesterol, 608mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 16g protein.
These crispy mini chimichangas are filled with a hearty combination of ground beef, spicy green chilis and cheese, then deep-fried to golden perfection. Set out sour cream and salsa for dipping.
42/52
Chicken Bites with Apricot Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
Satisfying a hungry crowd is simple with these oven-baked morsels. The bite-sized chicken pieces are served with an incredibly easy sauce that combines apricot preserves and mustard. —Michelle Krzmarzick, Redondo Beach, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece with 2 teaspoons sauce: 102 calories, 1g fat (0 saturated fat), 26mg cholesterol, 163mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 0 fiber), 6g protein.
These chicken bites mimic the taste of fried chicken without having to deep-fry a single thing. Instead, a cornflake breading gives the oven-baked chicken a crispy texture, meaning there won’t be any lingering deep-fried smells during your party.
43/52
Nacho Triangles with Salsa-Ranch Dipping Sauce
From the Recipe Creator:
These nacho bites are a fun fusion of Greek appetizers and flavors of the American Southwest. The simple dipping sauce is a perfect match—ranch balances out the heat of the jalapeno and chipotle peppers—taking the recipe to the next level. —Angela Spengler, Niceville, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 77 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 13mg cholesterol, 143mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
The beauty of these hand-held nacho triangles is that you get to enjoy the flavor of nachos without having to grab from a mountain of chips. You’ll never have to worry about unevenly dispersed toppings! Instead, each triangle is stuffed with ground beef, onions, cheese, jalapenos, tomatoes and corn, then lovingly wrapped in phyllo dough and baked to golden perfection.
44/52
Loaded Baked Potato Rounds
From the Recipe Creator:
I was trying to create an appetizer that could be served at my teenage daughters birthday party—something that the kids would love but that would appear elegant enough for the adults to be interested in as well. These are made with simple ingredients yet yield a sophisticated result. Feel free to get creative with the flavors. Try shredded white cheddar in place of mozzarella or thyme instead of the rosemary. Take it up another notch by topping the rounds with smoked fish. —Amanda Digges, South Windsor, Connecticut
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 39 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 3mg cholesterol, 92mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.
Baked potato rounds are a quicker and more appetizer-friendly version of a loaded baked potato. Load up the little rounds with your favorite baked potato toppings and set them out on a serving platter.
45/52
Mini Fruitcakes
From the Recipe Creator:
Fruitcake always looked so festive to me but I did not like the hard citron fruit. I came up with my own recipe using dried fruits and nuts. I place these in Christmas-themed petit fours paper cups and give them to neighbors and friends along with the many other cookies and candies I bake. They keep well in the freezer in an airtight container. Just thaw to room temperature and they taste fresh-baked and moist. —Lisa McDermith, Highland, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 mini fruitcake: 93 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 6mg cholesterol, 53mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.
Stop! Don’t scroll away because you saw the word fruitcake. These are not your average dense, heavy loaves that everyone avoids. Instead, this recipe omits the molasses so the fruitcakes stay light and fluffy.
46/52
Bacon Cheeseburger Balls
From the Recipe Creator:
The first time I served these, my husband and kids thought we were having plain meatballs. Then they cut into the flavorful filling inside! —Cathy Lendvoy, Boharm, Saskatchewan
Nutrition Facts:
1 ball: 75 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 137mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 4g protein.
Grape jelly and chili sauce meatballs are a classic party appetizer, but they’re a little overdone. Instead, serve an unexpected equivalent: bacon cheeseburger balls. Ground beef is rolled with cheddar cheese and bacon, coated in saltine crumbs and browned to golden perfection.
47/52
Turkey Sliders
From the Recipe Creator:
Turkey sliders with ginger, horseradish and cranberry sauce refrigerate well. I keep them ready for get-togethers when we bake gifts and wrap presents. —Pamela Miller, Big Rapids, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 slider: 231 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 55mg cholesterol, 221mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 1g fiber), 13g protein.
Most slider recipes are baked, but these turkey sliders are ready as soon as they’re assembled. Just cut them up, arrange them on a serving platter and watch them get gobbled up before the ball drops.
48/52
Garlic Bread Bites
From the Recipe Creator:
These garlic bread bites are ridiculously easy to make and insanely tasty! To make them extra-cheesy, sprinkle the tops with more mozzarella cheese after taking them out of the oven the second time. Then, return them to the oven until the cheese is melted. Serve the bites with your favorite dipping sauce. —Anna Bowden, Littleton, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 144 calories, 12g fat (5g saturated fat), 37mg cholesterol, 224mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein.
Would you believe us if we told you these mozzarella garlic bread bites are completely gluten-free? Thank you, almond flour!
49/52
Spanakopita Appetizer Roll-Ups
From the Recipe Creator:
I love having appetizers on hand in the freezer, especially when the holiday season is fast approaching. This easy spanakopita recipe is one of my all-time favorites. Everyone loves them, they're easy to prep and they bake up in about 20 minutes. —Shannon Dobos, Calgary, Alberta
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 96 calories, 8g fat (4g saturated fat), 29mg cholesterol, 155mg sodium, 5g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.
Spanakopita is great because it can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the freezer until you’re ready to bake. The key to hosting a stress-free New Year’s Eve party is taking advantage of make-ahead recipes. We recommend adding this appetizer to your menu.
50/52
Swiss Potato Puffs
From the Recipe Creator:
Encourage guests to mingle by serving these cute little morsels. They’re transportable, mess-free and easy to eat in a few bites. —Myra Innes, Auburn, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 potato puff: 37 calories, 2g fat (1g saturated fat), 22mg cholesterol, 53mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (0 sugars, 0 fiber), 2g protein.
Guests of all ages love cheesy potato bites! They’re perfect by themselves, but if you must serve them with a sauce, let it be a high quality mustard.
51/52
Roasted Chicken and Brie Holly Mini Bites
From the Recipe Creator:
I got the idea for these appetizers from my favorite sandwich at a local restaurant—a symphony of sweet fig, roasted apple, melted Brie and tangy garlic mayonnaise. I re-created this delectable combination in a quick appetizer with bright red cranberries and green spinach to give it a holiday twist. These scrumptious bites take only about 20 minutes but taste like you spent hours. You can also make them a few days in advance, then warm them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds before serving. They're the perfect party appetizer! —Terri Gilson, Calgary, Alberta
Nutrition Facts:
1 mini sandwich: 98 calories, 3g fat (1g saturated fat), 11mg cholesterol, 233mg sodium, 13g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.
This is a fantastic option if you’re serving alcohol at your party, as this heavy appetizer will help to fill your guests’ stomachs. Made with Brie, fig and cranberries, these roasted chicken and cheese bites are as festive as they are filling.
52/52
Portobello Mushroom and Cream Cheese Taquitos
From the Recipe Creator:
This party appetizer was inspired by a dish I saw on an episode of Top Chef. I simplified it a little and tweaked the flavors a bit. The taquitos can be made ahead and reheated in a 250° oven for 10 minutes. —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
1 appetizer: 375 calories, 25g fat (7g saturated fat), 27mg cholesterol, 380mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 8g protein.
Gone are the days of standing over the crudite board all night. Vegetarian guests will delight in these cheesy, mushroomy taquitos. Serve them with a chutney dipping sauce to round out the flavors.
New Year’s Eve Appetizers FAQ
Are there vegetarian options for New Year’s Eve appetizers?
Yes, there are many vegetarian options for New Year’s Eve appetizers. If you’re feeding vegetarian guests this year, prepare our whipped feta dip and surround it with a colorful crudites platter. Puff pastry holly leaves have all the carb and cheese goodness without any meat. Stuffed mini peppers, deviled eggs (hold the bacon!), stuffed mushrooms, Brie and leek tarts, Caprese skewers and marinated mozzarella all make stunning, elegant and completely vegetarian New Year’s Eve apps.
What finger foods are kid-friendly?
Finger foods that are kid-friendly are mini corn dogs, bacon-wrapped recipes, stuffed mini peppers, mini party burgers, Buffalo chicken crescent rolls, toasted ravioli, garlic pizza wedges, loaded baked potato rounds, sliders and garlic bread bites. Basically, any kid-friendly foods made into a miniature version will be a hit at your New Year’s Eve party.
What are good ideas for elegant New Year’s Eve appetizers?
Elegant New Year’s Eve appetizers include finger foods made with seafood and intricate charcuterie boards with fancy cheeses. I love making easy puff pastry recipes with store-bought puff pastry because they look fancy but are easy to pull off. The elegant app hero might just be bacon-wrapped scallops, but gougeres (also known as cheese puffs) aren’t far behind.
If you’re on dessert duty: truffles, truffles, truffles. You really can’t go wrong with chocolate desserts, so truffle recipes are the way to go.
