These are my favorite holiday appetizers—delicious, make-ahead snacks you can prep the day before a party. They’re crowd-pleasers everyone loves!
I’ve gathered the best holiday appetizers for your upcoming gatherings—easy to prep in advance and perfect for sharing.
If you’re short on time, these five appetizers are ideal because you can prepare most of the components ahead of time. That means less rushing on party day and more time to enjoy your guests. Friends and family often ask me what to bring, and these are the ones I suggest most often.
All of these recipes are crowd-pleasers and suit a range of tastes. Yes, many include cheese—because it’s the holidays! Which one will you try first?
5 Best Holiday Appetizers
Marinated Christmas Cheese
This marinated cheese is simple but extraordinary—one of those recipes that seems understated until you taste it. It actually improves as it sits, so prepping it a day ahead enhances the flavor. It’s easy to assemble and always vanishes fast.
Ricotta Jam Jar
Though often seen as a summer dish, the ricotta jam jar adapts beautifully for the holidays. Use store-bought pesto and a quick tomato jam to get festive red, white, and green colors. Serve with crackers, crostini, or slices of fresh bread for an elegant, easy-to-share starter.
Caramelized Onion Dip
This dip is a guaranteed hit. The caramelized onions take time to develop their deep, sweet flavor, but you can make them up to three days ahead and keep them refrigerated. Mix the dip the night before and bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Holiday Hummus
Super simple and surprisingly festive—this is the easiest option. Start with store-bought hummus and top it with colorful ingredients like roasted red peppers, herbs, seeds, or a drizzle of olive oil to create a seasonal presentation. It’s quick to assemble and always popular.
Pumpkin Cranberry Cheeseball
This cheeseball combines seasonal flavors—pumpkin and cranberry—for a sweet-savory centerpiece that’s become a holiday favorite. It’s rich, flavorful, and pairs well with crackers or sliced baguette. If you enjoy variations, there’s also a spiced orange holiday cheeseball that’s equally delightful.