13 simple last-minute Christmas appetizers anyone can make

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Did time escape you in the hustle and bustle of everything going on? We’ve all been there—suddenly realizing you’re on appetizer duty for the Christmas gathering, and time is slipping away. Fear not, because this blog post has your back with easy last-minute Christmas appetizers that won’t require a culinary marathon. Lucky for you, these stress-free recipes ensure you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the festive moments.

A cracker being dipped into a dish of jalapeño cranberry dip.
Jalapeño Cranberry Dip. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Holiday Charcuterie Board

A platter of meats, cheeses and crackers on a table.
Holiday Charcuterie Board. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

Make your holiday gathering stand out with a visually stunning yet easy-to-assemble charcuterie board. This friendly appetizer, featuring a curated selection of meats, cheeses, and accompaniments, doubles as a centerpiece that caters to diverse tastes, creating an inviting atmosphere for guests to graze and mingle. You can count on this snack board, even at the last-minute.
Get the Recipe: Holiday Charcuterie Board

Bacon Cheddar Dip

Bacon cheddar dip with shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and chive garnish.
Bacon Cheddar Dip. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Leave a lasting impression on your holiday guests with the delightful Bacon Cheddar Dip. This foolproof appetizer combines the smoky essence of bacon with the sharpness of cheddar, crafting a rich and satisfying dip perfect for any last-minute gathering. Paired with veggies or crackers, this easy holiday appetizer is sure to have everyone coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Cheddar Dip

Easy Cheese Ball with Herbs

Nut-free cheese ball and crackers on a plate.
Easy Cheese Ball with Herbs. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Wow your holiday guests effortlessly with an enticing Easy Cheese Ball adorned with aromatic herbs. The harmonious blend of creamy cheese and flavorful herbs creates a visually appealing and festive appetizer. Pair it with crisp veggies or crackers, and watch it disappear as guests savor its irresistible charm—a perfect choice for simple last-minute Christmas appetizers anyone can whip up.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cheese Ball with Herbs

Cheese Curds

Gluten-free keto cheese curds.
Cheese Curds. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Boost your holiday appetizer game with delectable cheese curds. A crunchy exterior gives way to a gooey, cheesy center, creating an irresistible treat for your guests. Whether served alone or with a tangy dipping sauce, these cheese curds are a delightful last-minute addition to your festive spread.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Curds

Copycat Lawson’s Chip Dip

A picture of the best chip dip with potato chips on a tray.
Copycat Lawson’s Chip Dip. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

Recreate the classic Lawson’s chip dip in a version that leaves your guests craving more. This creamy and savory dip is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for scooping up with chips or crunchy veggies. Its nostalgic flavor profile, combined with a carb-conscious twist, makes it a must-have at your easy holiday appetizer gathering, bringing the taste of tradition to your party.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Lawson’s Chip Dip

Cheesy Pickle Chips

Baked pickle cheese chips with bowl of ketchup on white plate.
Cheesy Pickle Chips. Photo credit: Primal Edge Health.

Take your holiday spread up a notch with Cheesy Pickle Chips, an unexpected and delightful treat that sparks conversations. Tangy pickles meet melty cheese, creating a satisfying crunch that’s perfect for surprising your guests. They won’t believe these crispy delights, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your festive celebration. Enjoy the simplicity of this easy last-minute holiday appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Pickle Chips

Easy 3-Ingredient Onion Dip

A picture of easy 3-Ingredient Onion Dip with vegetable sticks.
Easy 3-Ingredient Onion Dip. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

Simplify your holiday prep with the Easy 3-Ingredient Onion Dip, a stress-free solution for wowing your guests with an easy last-minute holiday appetizer. With just three simple ingredients, this dip effortlessly delivers a burst of flavor that has everyone reaching for more. Whether paired with crunchy veggies or chips, it’s a crowd-pleaser that adds a delicious touch to any festive gathering.
Get the Recipe: Easy 3-Ingredient Onion Dip

Jalapeño Cranberry Dip

A person is dipping a cracker into a bowl of jalapeño cranberry dip.
Jalapeño Cranberry Dip. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Spice up your easy holiday appetizer game with Jalapeño Cranberry Dip – a festive twist on the traditional. Picture the kick of jalapeños complemented by the sweetness of cranberries, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. This dip adds a bold and tangy last-minute element to your holiday spread, making it a standout choice for those who crave a bit of heat and sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Cranberry Dip

Hot Bacon Cheddar Dip

Image shows a hand dipping a cracker into Hot Bacon Cheddar Dip in a ceramic dish.
Hot Bacon Cheddar Dip. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Turn up the heat at your easy holiday appetizer gathering with Hot Bacon Cheddar Dip – a crowd-pleaser that brings sizzle to your appetizer table. Picture the smoky aroma of bacon and the ooey-gooey goodness of melted cheddar, ready to be paired with your favorite dippables. This dip adds comforting warmth and bold flavor to your last-minute holiday appetizer spread, making it an instant favorite among your festive crowd.
Get the Recipe: Hot Bacon Cheddar Dip

Caprese Candy Cane

A plate with tomatoes, basil and bread on it.
Caprese Candy Cane. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Impress with the whimsical and easy elegance of Caprese Candy Cane. Imagine vibrant cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil arranged in the shape of a candy cane, creating a festive masterpiece without any last-minute culinary stress.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Candy Cane

Santa Charcuterie Board

Santa charcuterie board on a blue surface.
Santa Charcuterie Board. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Level up your Christmas celebrations with this eye-catching Santa charcuterie board. This snack board is easy to put together and is the ultimate easy last-minute holiday appetizer for your holiday gatherings, creating a visually stunning centerpiece that invites guests to graze and mingle throughout the celebration.
Get the Recipe: Santa Charcuterie Board

Cold Crab Dip

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

Loaded with sweet, tender crab, this easy and flavorful Crab Dip is the perfect shareable for your last-minute holiday appetizer gatherings! Its creamy texture and rich seafood flavor make it a decadent indulgence that will impress your guests. Serve it alongside a variety of crackers or crusty bread for a delightful combination of crunch and creaminess, creating a standout dish for your festive spread.
Get the Recipe: Cold Crab Dip

Chili Popcorn

A bowl of popcorn on a red and white checkered tablecloth.
Chili Popcorn. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Chili Popcorn is a savory and flavorful last-minute snack that is easy and quick to make. Made with chili powder, salt, garlic powder, and paprika—an easy holiday appetizer delight, offering a satisfying crunch with a perfect blend of heat and spice for a festive and flavorful celebration.
Get the Recipe: Chili Popcorn

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