Christmas feels even more magical now that my little boy is three.
He notices everything—the twinkly lights, the ornaments he thinks he can rearrange, and every festive treat that comes out of the kitchen. But let’s be real, the holiday season can still feel like a whirlwind when you’re juggling cooking, cleaning, and keeping curious little hands busy.
That’s why I’ve learned to simplify wherever I can, especially with food. Easy, family-friendly Christmas appetizers help me spend less time stressing in the kitchen and more time enjoying the sweet, funny, heart-melting moments that only a toddler Christmas can bring.
How to Make Easy Christmas Appetizers for Families
You can make easy Christmas appetizers by choosing simple, kid-friendly recipes that use everyday ingredients you already have at home. I like to prepare a few make-ahead options so I’m not rushing on the day of the gathering, and then add one or two quick finger foods my toddler can help with. Keeping everything bite-sized and stress-free makes holiday hosting so much easier for busy moms.
1. Mini Caprese Skewers with Pesto Drizzle
Mini Caprese skewers are a fresh, colorful, and fuss-free appetizer that brings a touch of elegance without complicated prep. As a busy mom, I love how easy these are to assemble—and toddlers are often intrigued by the bright colors and bite-sized pieces. Plus, they’re a healthier option amid all the holiday treats, so it’s a win for everyone. The pesto drizzle adds a burst of flavor that makes these feel special but still family-friendly.
Ingredients:
- 20 cherry tomatoes
- 20 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 20 fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 20 toothpicks or small skewers
Procedures:
- Wash the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves thoroughly.
- Thread a cherry tomato, basil leaf, and mozzarella ball onto each toothpick.
- Arrange skewers on a platter.
- Drizzle pesto over just before serving.
Tips:
- Assemble skewers ahead and refrigerate; add pesto last minute to keep fresh.
- Use mini mozzarella balls to save slicing time and reduce mess.
- If your toddler resists basil, substitute with mild baby spinach leaves.
2. Cranberry Cream Cheese Puff Pastry Bites
These cranberry cream cheese puff pastry bites are a sweet and tangy crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to make. I appreciate these because they’re bite-sized, so little hands can easily enjoy them. The puff pastry’s flaky texture paired with creamy cheese and tart cranberry sauce feels festive, without being over the top. Perfect for moms who want a fancy-tasting appetizer with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Procedures:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut puff pastry into 24 squares.
- Place a small dollop of cream cheese and cranberry sauce on each square.
- Fold squares into triangles and seal edges with a fork.
- Brush with beaten egg and bake for 15-18 minutes until golden.
Tips:
- Use store-bought cranberry sauce for speed, or add chopped nuts for crunch.
- Freeze unbaked bites for up to a month; bake straight from freezer adding extra baking time.
- Let them cool slightly before serving to avoid toddler burns.
3. Holiday Veggie Christmas Tree Platter
A holiday veggie platter shaped like a Christmas tree is both festive and healthy, making it a perfect appetizer for moms wanting to sneak more veggies into the day’s snacks. Kids love the fun shape, and it makes it easier to get them interested in eating fresh veggies. Plus, it’s super easy to customize with your favorite dips and veggies that are in season or on hand.
Ingredients:
- Broccoli florets
- Sliced cucumbers
- Cherry tomatoes
- Baby carrots
- Pretzel sticks
- Ranch or hummus dip
Procedures:
- Arrange broccoli in a large triangle shape on a platter to form the “tree.”
- Fill in with cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, and baby carrots to decorate the tree.
- Use pretzel sticks as “tree trunk” and “garlands.”
- Place dip in a small bowl beside the platter.
Tips:
- Use colorful veggies for extra festive flair.
- Let your toddler help “decorate” the tree with veggies to encourage healthy eating.
- Serve with a favorite dip to make veggies more appealing.
4. Ham & Cheese Pinwheel Roll-Ups
Ham and cheese pinwheel roll-ups are a simple, classic appetizer that’s easy to make and loved by kids and adults alike. I like that they can be made ahead and sliced for quick serving, plus they’re soft enough for little toddlers to chew easily. They’re also a nice way to sneak in some protein during busy holiday days when snacks and sweets abound.
Ingredients:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 8 oz sliced deli ham
- 8 oz sliced cheese (cheddar or Swiss)
Procedures:
- Spread cream cheese evenly over each tortilla.
- Layer ham and cheese slices on top.
- Roll up tortillas tightly and wrap in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Slice into 1-inch pinwheels and serve.
Tips:
- Use flavored cream cheese (herb or garlic) for extra taste.
- Wrap tightly to keep pinwheels from unraveling.
- Cut into toddler-friendly sizes so little hands can enjoy them easily.
5. Mini Meatball Skewers with Sweet Chili Sauce
Mini meatball skewers with sweet chili sauce are a warm, comforting appetizer that’s easy to prep and serve, especially when using store-bought meatballs. I love these because they’re hearty enough to satisfy little tummies, and the sweet chili sauce adds a festive zing that feels special but isn’t too spicy for kids.
Ingredients:
- 24 frozen mini meatballs
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce
- 24 toothpicks
Procedures:
- Heat meatballs according to package instructions.
- Toss meatballs in sweet chili sauce until evenly coated.
- Thread each meatball onto a toothpick.
- Arrange on a platter and serve warm.
Tips:
- Use mild chili sauce if serving toddlers to avoid heat.
- Keep toothpicks out of reach of very young toddlers to avoid choking hazards.
- Meatballs can be baked or microwaved to save time.
6. Cucumber Santa Hats
Cucumber Santa hats are a fun, festive, and super easy appetizer that toddlers love because of their cute size and sweet presentation. They’re fresh and light, which balances out all the heavier holiday foods. Plus, it’s a great way to get kids excited about veggies without any fuss.
Ingredients:
- 1 large cucumber
- ½ cup whipped cream cheese
- 12 cherry tomatoes
Procedures:
- Slice cucumber into ½-inch thick rounds.
- Spread a dollop of whipped cream cheese on each slice.
- Top each with a cherry tomato half, cut side down.
- Add a small dot of cream cheese on top of the tomato to resemble a “pom-pom.”
Tips:
- Use whipped cream cheese for easy spreading and a lighter taste.
- Let toddlers help assemble the hats—it’s a fun activity and encourages eating.
- Keep extra cream cheese handy for quick touch-ups.
7. Cheesy Garlic Pull-Apart Bread
Cheesy garlic pull-apart bread is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for sharing during holiday gatherings. It’s warm, gooey, and the garlic butter flavor feels indulgent but simple to prepare. I appreciate how easy it is to make ahead and pop in the oven just before guests arrive.
Ingredients:
- 1 large round crusty bread loaf
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Procedures:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut bread in a criss-cross pattern without slicing all the way through.
- Mix melted butter, garlic, and parsley.
- Drizzle butter mixture between bread cuts and sprinkle cheese throughout.
- Wrap in foil and bake 15 minutes, then unwrap and bake 5 more minutes until cheese is bubbly.
Tips:
- Use a serrated knife to avoid crushing the bread.
- Bake wrapped first to ensure cheese melts, then unwrap for a crispy top.
- Let cool slightly before serving to avoid burning little mouths.
8. Pepperoni Pizza Bombs
Pepperoni pizza bombs are little pockets of deliciousness that bring all the joy of pizza in an easy, handheld form. Kids love these because they’re cheesy and fun to eat, and moms love how quick and customizable they are. Plus, they’re great for make-ahead and reheat snacks during busy holiday days.
Ingredients:
- 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough
- ½ cup pizza sauce
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup sliced pepperoni
Procedures:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Flatten biscuit dough and place a teaspoon of pizza sauce, cheese, and pepperoni on each piece.
- Fold dough over filling and pinch edges to seal.
- Bake 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
Tips:
- Serve with extra pizza sauce for dipping.
- Use mini pepperoni slices to fit easily inside.
- Freeze leftover bombs and reheat in oven for later snacks.
9. Deviled Eggs with Crispy Bacon Crumble
Deviled eggs are a holiday classic, and adding crispy bacon crumble gives them a smoky, crunchy twist that pleases all ages. They’re easy to make in advance, and bite-sized eggs are perfect for little hands to pick up. I like how they add protein to the appetizer table, balancing out the sweet treats.
Ingredients:
- 6 hard-boiled eggs
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
Procedures:
- Peel and halve hard-boiled eggs, removing yolks.
- Mash yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Spoon or pipe yolk mixture back into egg whites.
- Sprinkle bacon crumble on top.
Tips:
- Use a piping bag or zip-top bag with a corner cut off for neat filling.
- Make eggs a day ahead and refrigerate.
- Cook bacon until very crispy for best texture.
10. Apple & Brie Crostini with Honey
Apple and brie crostini combine creamy, sweet, and crunchy elements in one elegant bite. This appetizer feels fancy but is simple enough to prepare quickly, making it perfect for busy moms. The honey drizzle adds a natural sweetness that even picky toddlers may enjoy alongside the soft cheese and crisp apple.
Ingredients:
- 1 baguette, sliced thin
- 6 oz brie cheese, sliced
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
- Honey for drizzling
Procedures:
- Toast baguette slices until golden.
- Top each slice with a piece of brie and apple.
- Drizzle lightly with honey before serving.
Tips:
- Use a crisp apple variety like Granny Smith for tartness.
- Serve immediately to keep crostini crunchy.
- Cut slices smaller for toddler-friendly portions.
11. Mini Chicken Salad Tartlets
Mini chicken salad tartlets are a sophisticated yet approachable appetizer that works well for family gatherings. The creamy chicken salad offers a comforting flavor, while the ready-made tartlet shells save prep time. These bite-sized treats are perfect for little fingers and provide a nice protein option.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 12 mini tartlet shells
Procedures:
- Mix chicken, mayonnaise, and celery in a bowl.
- Spoon chicken salad into tartlet shells.
- Chill until ready to serve.
Tips:
- Add a pinch of dried herbs like dill for extra flavor.
- Make the salad a day ahead to let flavors meld.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for mayo for a lighter option.
12. Spinach Dip Christmas Wreath
This spinach dip wreath is a festive way to serve a classic party dip. Arranging toasted baguette slices in a wreath shape adds a beautiful holiday touch that kids and adults will love. Plus, it’s easy to make with store-bought dip or homemade, making it a low-effort centerpiece.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup spinach dip (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 baguette, sliced and toasted
Procedures:
- Place spinach dip in the center of a round serving plate.
- Arrange toasted baguette slices in a ring around the dip, mimicking a wreath.
Tips:
- Add cherry tomatoes or olives on the bread for “ornaments.”
- Use mini pita chips for a gluten-free option.
- Let toddlers help arrange the bread for a fun activity.
13. Garlic Butter Shrimp Cups
Garlic butter shrimp cups are bite-sized, savory appetizers that feel fancy but come together quickly. Using wonton wrappers as cups makes them easy to hold and fun to eat. I love that shrimp adds a bit of holiday indulgence without a lot of work, perfect for moms who want something impressive but simple.
Ingredients:
- 24 wonton wrappers
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Procedures:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Press wonton wrappers into mini muffin tin to form cups; bake 8 minutes.
- Sauté shrimp in butter and garlic until pink.
- Place one shrimp in each cup; garnish with parsley.
Tips:
- Use pre-cooked shrimp to speed up prep.
- Brush wonton cups lightly with oil before baking for extra crispiness.
- Serve immediately for best texture.
14. Holiday Fruit & Cheese Cones
Holiday fruit and cheese cones are a mess-free, colorful appetizer that kids love to hold and snack on. Using waffle cones adds a fun twist, and the combo of sweet fruit and savory cheese hits a perfect balance. It’s an easy way to serve healthy snacks that feel festive and fresh.
Ingredients:
- 4 waffle cones
- 1 cup mixed grapes
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries)
- 1 cup cheese cubes (cheddar or gouda)
Procedures:
- Fill waffle cones with alternating layers of fruit and cheese cubes.
- Arrange cones upright in a vase or stand.
- Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving.
Tips:
- Use toothpicks to secure fruit and cheese inside if needed.
- Cut larger berries or grapes in half for toddler-sized bites.
- Prep fruit and cheese ahead and fill cones just before guests arrive.
Conclusion
Making Christmas appetizers that are easy, family-friendly, and delicious doesn’t have to be stressful—especially when you choose recipes that fit your busy mom life. From colorful veggie platters to bite-sized savory treats, these 14 appetizers bring festive cheer to your holiday table while keeping prep simple.
Remember, the best holiday moments come from enjoying time with your little ones, not from complicated cooking. So pick a few favorites, involve your toddler if you can, and savor the magic of the season with less stress and more smiles.
