Party pleasers: 23 appetizers and drinks for a stellar bash

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If you’re gearing up for a stellar bash and want to ensure your guests leave with happy smiles on their faces, look no further! I’ve got the scoop on 23 party pleasers that will turn your gathering into a flavor fiesta. From mouthwatering appetizers to refreshing drinks, I’ve got you covered. It’s time to indulge in bite-sized delights and refreshing sips that’ll leave everyone craving more. So, if you’re ready to level up your hosting game, these appetizers and drinks are your secret weapons for a night of unforgettable fun and deliciousness!

A group of pizza raclette.
Pizza Raclette. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Winter Vanilla & Thyme Paloma

An  winter vanilla thyme vanilla paloma mocktailwith a sprig of thyme.
Winter Vanilla & Thyme Paloma. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This Winter Vanilla & Thyme Paloma as the star of your bash. With a subtle blend of vanilla and thyme, this twist on the classic cocktail promises to add a refreshing and unique touch to your drink lineup. It’s a delicious concoction that’s sure to leave your guests pleasantly surprised and reaching for more. Just shake it up, pour over ice, and let the flavorful magic unfold.
Get the Recipe: Winter Vanilla & Thyme Paloma

Sausage Rolls

Sausage Rolls on a white plate.
Sausage Rolls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sausage Rolls are the hands-on heroes of any gathering. Imagine a flaky pastry embracing savory sausage, creating a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. These bite-sized wonders are easy to handle and impossible to resist. As your guests indulge in these delicious rolls, the combination of pastry and sausage will leave them satisfied and content.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Rolls

Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites

A platter of Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites.
Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bring a touch of smoky sophistication to your appetizer game with Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites. These bite-sized treats pack a punch of flavor without any fuss. With the smoky essence enhancing every bite, these tortilla bites are not only convenient but also a surefire crowd-pleaser. Get ready for your guests to savor each moment with these effortlessly delicious appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Chicken Tortilla Bites

Cold Crab Dip

A bowl of cold crab dip with crackers and chives.
Cold Crab Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Keep things cool and classy with Cold Crab Dip, a chilled delight that’s a seafood lover’s dream. Imagine a creamy blend of fresh crab and subtle seasonings, offering a sophisticated addition to your party spread. As your guests dip in, the coolness of this appetizer paired with the richness of crab creates a harmony that’ll make your bash stand out.
Get the Recipe: Cold Crab Dip

Cranberry Cosmosa

Two glasses of cranberry cosmosa and a christmas tree on a table.
Cranberry Cosmosa. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Spice up your party with the Cranberry Cosmosa, a vibrant and festive drink that adds a pop of color and flavor. Imagine the classic cosmopolitan meeting the seasonal flair of cranberry, resulting in a delicious concoction that’s both refreshing and visually appealing. It’s the perfect sip to bring a touch of elegance to your gathering and keep the good times flowing.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Cosmosa

Pico de Gallo

A shot of Pico de Gallo on a board with chips nearby.
Pico de Gallo. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Spice up your spread with the freshness of Pico de Gallo. This salsa is a straightforward yet flavorful addition to your appetizer lineup. Imagine the burst of freshness from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, creating a perfect companion for chips or as a topping for other bites at your bash. It’s the kind of simple yet delicious snack that keeps your guests coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels

A plate of Prosciutto & Parmesan Puff Pastry pinwheels.
Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Delight your guests with the simplicity and sophistication of Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels. Imagine flaky pastry embracing savory prosciutto, creating bite-sized wonders that are easy to handle and impossible to resist. These pinwheels are not only a visual treat but also a delicious addition to your party spread that will disappear in no time.
Get the Recipe: Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Lemon-Ginger Hot Toddy Mix

A mug of hot apple cider with cinnamon sticks and lemon slices.
Lemon-Ginger Hot Toddy Mix. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Warm up your gathering with the simplicity of Lemon-Ginger Hot Toddy Mix. This ready-to-go mix combines the citrusy freshness of lemon with the soothing warmth of ginger. Imagine your guests enjoying a cozy and inviting drink with just a splash of hot water or their favorite spirit. It’s the kind of comforting sip that adds a touch of warmth to any cold night.
Get the Recipe: Lemon-Ginger Hot Toddy Mix

Beef Wellington Bites

Beef Wellington Bites on a white plate with sauce in the middle.
Beef Wellington Bites. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Serve up luxury in bite-sized portions with Beef Wellington Bites. Imagine all the rich flavors of the classic dish packed into these mini marvels. The result is a savory indulgence that captures the essence of sophistication, making every bite a memorable experience for your guests. Get ready for these bites to disappear quickly as they savor the upscale taste.
Get the Recipe: Beef Wellington Bites

Guacamole Snack Board

A top-down shot of a guacamole snack board.
Guacamole Snack Board. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Keep it simple yet enjoyable with a Guacamole Snack Board, a customizable spread that lets your guests create their perfect bites. Imagine fresh guacamole served alongside an array of dippable delights, creating a no-fuss, flavorful option. It’s the kind of snack board that encourages interaction and allows everyone to tailor their snacks to their liking.
Get the Recipe: Guacamole Snack Board

Pomegranate Mojito Cocktail

Two pomegranate mojito mocktails with a lemon on top of it.
Pomegranate Mojito Cocktail. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Add a refreshing twist to your drink selection with a Pomegranate Mojito Cocktail. Think of the classic mojito getting a lively update with the sweet and tart kick of pomegranate. It’s a vibrant and flavorful sip that brings a burst of freshness to your party. Get ready for your guests to enjoy the lively combination of mint and pomegranate in this lovely cocktail.
Get the Recipe: Pomegranate Mojito Cocktail

Baked Brie with Apple-Ginger Chutney

A chunk of oozing brie with apple chutney on a board.
Baked Brie with Apple-Ginger Chutney. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Impress your guests with the timeless combination of Baked Brie and Apple-Ginger Chutney. Picture warm, gooey brie paired with the sweet and tangy chutney, creating an easy yet elegant appetizer that stands out. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors that will make your party memorable, leaving your guests raving about this simple yet sophisticated dish.
Get the Recipe: Baked Brie with Apple-Ginger Chutney

Pizza Raclette

A group of pizza raclette.
Pizza Raclette. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Level up your pizza experience with Pizza Raclette, an unconventional twist that brings gooey melted cheese to the forefront. Imagine a fun and interactive choice that allows your guests to customize their slices. It’s the kind of playful addition that adds an unexpected element of enjoyment to your bash, making pizza a memorable experience.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Raclette

Cider Sangria

Two glasses of cider sangria with cinnamon sticks.
Cider Sangria. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Embrace the seasonal spirit with Cider Sangria, a fruity and spiced option that’s perfect for a festive gathering. Imagine a refreshing departure from traditional sangrias, featuring a lovely medley of flavors that captures the essence of fall. It’s the kind of drink that adds a touch of warmth and celebration to your party, ensuring a memorable experience for your guests.
Get the Recipe: Cider Sangria

Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

Smoked jalapeno poppers on a platter.
Smoked Jalapeno Poppers. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Spice things up with Smoked Jalapeno Poppers, fiery bites that strike the perfect balance of heat and flavor. Imagine each popper stuffed with a savory filling and kissed by smoky goodness. These bold bites are not just a crowd-pleaser; they’re a flavorful addition that adds a kick to your party spread. Get ready for your guests to savor the boldness of each bite.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Jalapeno Poppers

Baked Scotch Eggs

Scotch Eggs on a black plate.
Baked Scotch Eggs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Indulge in a classic favorite with Baked Scotch Eggs, hearty bites featuring perfectly cooked eggs wrapped in savory sausage and breadcrumbs. Picture the substantial and pleasing nature of each bite, adding a comforting touch to your appetizer spread. These eggs are not just a substantial option; they’re a timeless choice that satisfies hunger and pleases the palate.
Get the Recipe: Baked Scotch Eggs

Cinnamon Smoked Old Fashioned

A glass of whiskey with cinnamon sticks on a brick wall.
Cinnamon Smoked Old Fashioned. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sip in style with a Cinnamon Smoked Old Fashioned, a timeless and sophisticated cocktail with a seasonal twist. Imagine the classic old fashioned meeting the warmth of cinnamon, resulting in a unique and flavorful drink. It’s the kind of sip that adds a touch of complexity to your beverage selection, making it a favorite among guests looking for a sophisticated taste experience.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Smoked Old Fashioned

Pork Belly Burnt Ends

A plate of smoked pork belly burnt ends with tomatoes and pickles.
Pork Belly Burnt Ends. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Treat your guests to the hearty goodness of Pork Belly Burnt Ends, bite-sized portions that capture the essence of flavorful pork belly. Imagine each piece as a meat lover’s dream, offering a delicious and indulgent option for your party spread. These burnt ends are not just a substantial choice; they’re a bold and flavorful addition that will have your guests coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly Burnt Ends

Cold Corn Dip

A bowl of Chilled Corn Dip with chips on a black plate.
Cold Corn Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cool things down with a Cold Corn Dip, a chilled concoction that brings the sweetness of corn together with a medley of complementary flavors. Imagine the refreshing nature of this dip, offering a break from the warmth of other party pleasers. It’s the kind of dip that adds a diverse and worthy element to your spread, ensuring there’s something for every palate at your bash.
Get the Recipe: Cold Corn Dip

Smoked Gimlet Cocktail

Two lime gimelts with smoke on top.
Smoked Gimlet Cocktail. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Infuse a smoky twist into your cocktail lineup with a Smoked Gimlet. Imagine the crispness of a classic gimlet meeting the depth of smoky flavors, resulting in a unique and memorable drink. It’s the kind of cocktail that stands out, offering guests a chance to explore new taste sensations. Get ready for the smoky elegance of each sip to make a lasting impression.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Gimlet Cocktail

Tomato Bruschetta Board

Tomato bruschetta board on a table.
Tomato Bruschetta Board. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Keep it fresh and flavorful with a Tomato Bruschetta Board, a classic Italian dish that celebrates the beauty of uncomplicated yet delicious ingredients. Imagine ripe tomatoes, garlic, and basil atop crusty bread, creating a visual and flavorful feast. It’s the kind of appetizer board that adds a touch of freshness to your gathering and lets the simplicity of ingredients shine.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta Board

Pork Tenderloin Crostini with Lime Crema

A wooden cutting board with sliced meat and sauce on it.
Pork Tenderloin Crostini with Lime Crema. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Impress your guests with the elegant simplicity of Pork Tenderloin Crostini. Imagine tender pork atop crusty bread, finished with a zesty lime crema. These crostini are not just a sophisticated option; they’re a flavorful choice that marries ingredients in a way that leaves a lasting impression. Get ready for your guests to savor each bite of this elegant yet straightforward appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Pork Tenderloin Crostini with Lime Crema

Strawberry Lillet Crush Cocktail

Two glasses of strawberry lillet crush with mint leaves.
Strawberry Lillet Crush Cocktail. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Ugrade your drink selection with a Strawberry Lillet Crush Cocktail, a refreshing blend of strawberries and Lillet that creates a light and fruity sip. Imagine the wonderful sweetness of strawberries combined with the lively kick of Lillet, making it a perfect choice for a lively gathering. It’s the kind of cocktail that adds a touch of sweetness to your lineup, pleasing the palate and keeping the good vibes flowing.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Lillet Crush Cocktail

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