7 Christmas Party Food Ideas for a Dinner Menu Built Entirely on Finger Food

Mingle and delight your guests with these seven festive finger food ideas that will elevate your Christmas party. Discover the perfect bites to spark joy!

When it comes to planning a Christmas party, I often find that finger foods make for a more relaxed and enjoyable dining experience. There’s something delightful about a menu centered around bite-sized treats that encourages mingling and conversation. I’ve put together seven ideas that promise to please your guests, from savory bites to sweet treats. Let’s explore what each of these finger foods can bring to your festive celebration.

Mini Beef Wellingtons

decadent mini beef appetizers

Mini Beef Wellingtons are a decadent and elegant finger food perfect for holiday parties or any special gathering. These bite-sized delights feature tender beef filet encased in a flavorful mushroom duxelles and wrapped in flaky puff pastry. They are sure to impress your guests with their rich flavors and delightful presentation.

Ingredients Quantity
Beef tenderloin cut 1 pound
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Mushrooms (finely chopped) 8 ounces
Fresh thyme (chopped) 1 tablespoon
Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons
Puff pastry sheets 2 sheets
Egg (beaten) 1

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven: First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prepare the Beef: Season the beef tenderloin with salt and black pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned beef on all sides until nicely browned (about 2-3 minutes per side). This helps to seal in the juices. Remove from the skillet and let it cool slightly.
  3. Make the Mushroom Duxelles: In the same skillet, add the finely chopped mushrooms and cook over medium heat until they release their moisture and then some of it evaporates (about 8-10 minutes). Add chopped fresh thyme and season with salt and pepper. Cook for another minute. Remove from heat and let it cool.
  4. Shape the Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut each sheet into rectangles (approximately 4 inches by 6 inches) suitable for wrapping around the beef.
  5. Assemble the Wellingtons: Brush the center of each pastry rectangle with Dijon mustard. Add a generous spoonful of mushroom duxelles on top. Place a piece of seared beef on top of the mushrooms. Fold the edges of the pastry over the beef, sealing the edges by pinching them together or using a fork to crimp.
  6. Brush with Egg: Place the wrapped Wellingtons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to create a golden crust when baked.
  7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
  8. Serve: Remove from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. Cut the Mini Beef Wellingtons in half and serve warm, either on their own or with a dipping sauce of your choice. Enjoy your gourmet finger food!
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Cranberry Brie Bites

cranberry brie puff pastry

Cranberry Brie Bites are a festive and delicious finger food that perfectly combines the richness of creamy brie cheese with the tartness of cranberry sauce, all wrapped in flaky puff pastry. These bite-sized treats are incredibly easy to make and are sure to become a favorite at your holiday gatherings, providing a delightful balance of flavors that will impress your guests.

Ingredients Quantity
Puff pastry sheets 1 sheet
Brie cheese 4 ounces
Cranberry sauce 1/2 cup
Fresh rosemary (chopped) 1 tablespoon
Egg (beaten) 1
Salt A pinch
Black pepper A pinch

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the Puff Pastry: Thaw the puff pastry sheet according to package directions, then roll it out on a lightly floured surface to smooth it out. Cut the pastry into squares, approximately 3 inches by 3 inches.
  3. Prepare the Brie: Cut the brie cheese into small pieces (about 1 inch) and set aside.
  4. Assemble the Bites: Place a piece of brie cheese in the center of each puff pastry square. Top the brie with a spoonful of cranberry sauce. Sprinkle a small amount of chopped fresh rosemary over the cranberry sauce and season lightly with salt and black pepper.
  5. Wrap the Bites: Fold the corners of the pastry square up and over the filling, pinching to seal them together. If desired, you can also fold in the sides to create a sealed pocket.
  6. Brush with Egg: Place the assembled bites on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops of the pastry with the beaten egg to achieve a beautiful golden color when baked.
  7. Bake: Bake the cranberry brie bites in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are puffed and golden brown.
  8. Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, and enjoy the savory and sweet flavors of these delightful bites!
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Holiday Stuffed Mushrooms

savory holiday stuffed mushrooms

Holiday Stuffed Mushrooms are a classic finger food that brings a delightful and savory flavor profile to your festive gatherings. These bite-sized mushrooms are typically filled with a delicious mixture of cream cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs, creating a creamy, cheesy filling that complements the earthy taste of the mushrooms. They are perfect for holiday parties, offering a warm and comforting option that is easy to eat with your hands.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh button mushrooms 24 medium-sized
Cream cheese (softened) 8 ounces
Garlic (minced) 2 cloves
Fresh parsley (chopped) 2 tablespoons
Breadcrumbs 1/2 cup
Grated Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the Mushrooms: Clean the fresh button mushrooms with a damp cloth to remove any dirt. Carefully remove the stems from the mushrooms and set them aside. Use a small spoon to gently scoop out the insides of the mushroom caps to create enough space for the filling.
  3. Make the Filling: Finely chop the reserved mushroom stems. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped mushroom stems and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened and fragrant. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sautéed mushroom mixture, chopped parsley, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated into a creamy filling.
  5. Stuff the Mushrooms: Use a teaspoon or a small cookie scoop to fill each mushroom cap with the creamy mixture, packing it in gently but firmly. Place the stuffed mushrooms on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Bake: Once all the mushrooms are filled, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden brown.
  7. Serve: Remove the stuffed mushrooms from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve warm on a platter and enjoy these delightful little bites at your holiday party!
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Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Triangles

savory spinach feta pastries

Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Triangles are a delicious and flaky finger food perfect for holiday parties or any festive gathering. These bite-sized pastries combine the savory flavors of sautéed spinach and creamy feta cheese, all wrapped in a light and crispy puff pastry. They are easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests with their delightful taste and appealing presentation.

Ingredients Quantity
Puff pastry sheets 2 sheets
Fresh spinach 4 cups, chopped
Feta cheese 1 cup, crumbled
Onion 1 medium, diced
Garlic 2 cloves, minced
Olive oil 1 tablespoon
Egg 1 (beaten, for egg wash)
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Sauté Spinach and Onions: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and chopped spinach, cooking until the spinach is wilted and any excess moisture has evaporated, roughly 3-5 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat and let it cool slightly.
  3. Mix Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed spinach and onion mixture with the crumbled feta cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
  4. Prepare Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into squares, approximately 4×4 inches in size.
  5. Fill the Pastry: Place a spoonful of the spinach and feta filling in the center of each pastry square. Be careful not to overfill, as this will make sealing difficult.
  6. Fold and Seal: Fold the pastry over to form a triangle, pressing the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative finish and to ensure they are well sealed.
  7. Apply Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the pastry triangles with the beaten egg, which will give them a beautiful golden color when baked.
  8. Bake: Place the prepared triangles on the lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.
  9. Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving warm to your guests. Enjoy these delightful Spinach and Feta Puff Pastry Triangles as a scrumptious finger food at your holiday party!
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Savory Caprese Skewers

fresh italian appetizer skewers

Savory Caprese Skewers are a fresh and vibrant finger food that combines the classic Italian flavors of tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella cheese. These bite-sized skewers are perfect for holiday parties, providing a light and refreshing appetizer that is easy to prepare and sure to please your guests. With their colorful presentation and delightful taste, they’re an excellent addition to any festive gathering.

Ingredients Quantity
Cherry tomatoes 1 pint
Fresh mozzarella balls 8 oz
Fresh basil leaves 1 bunch
Balsamic glaze 1/4 cup
Extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Skewers (toothpick or appetizer-sized) 12-15

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Rinse the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves under cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel. If needed, cut the mozzarella balls in half for easier assembly.
  2. Assemble Skewers: Take a skewer and begin by threading a cherry tomato onto it. Follow the tomato with a basil leaf, folding it in half if it’s large. Next, add a mozzarella ball. Repeat this process, alternating between the tomato, basil, and mozzarella, until the skewer is filled with approximately 2 tomatoes, 2 basil leaves, and 2 mozzarella balls. Leave some space at the end of the skewer for handling.
  3. Season: Once all skewers are assembled, drizzle them with extra virgin olive oil, carefully coating them without oversaturating. Sprinkle salt and black pepper to taste.
  4. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: Just before serving, lightly drizzle the balsamic glaze over the assembled skewers. This adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the fresh ingredients beautifully.
  5. Serve: Arrange the skewers on a platter and serve immediately as a refreshing appetizer. If preparing in advance, keep the skewers covered in the refrigerator for up to an hour before serving, and add the balsamic glaze shortly before presentation to maintain freshness.

Enjoy your Savory Caprese Skewers at your next holiday gathering!

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Shrimp Cocktail Cups

elegant shrimp appetizer cups

Shrimp Cocktail Cups are a sophisticated yet easy-to-make appetizer that adds a touch of elegance to any holiday gathering. These bite-sized cups are filled with succulent shrimp, zesty cocktail sauce, and crisp lettuce, all beautifully presented in individual portions. Perfect for mingling, these cups combine fresh flavors with an eye-catching presentation that guests will adore.

Ingredients Quantity
Cooked shrimp (peeled and deveined) 1 lb
Cocktail sauce 1 cup
Romaine lettuce or iceberg lettuce 1 head
Lemon wedges 1-2
Fresh parsley (optional) 1 small bunch
Mini plastic cups or small glasses 12-15

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Lettuce: Start by washing the romaine or iceberg lettuce under cold water. Once clean, dry the leaves gently with a paper towel. Remove the leaves and cut them into smaller pieces that will fit inside your cups.
  2. Assemble the Cups: Take a mini plastic cup or small glass and place a layer of chopped lettuce at the bottom. This will not only add freshness but also provide a base that holds the shrimp in place.
  3. Add the Shrimp: Next, take the cooked shrimp and arrange them vertically around the sides of the cup, allowing them to peek over the edge. This arrangement creates a visually appealing presentation and ensures each guest gets shrimp with their serving.
  4. Spoon in the Sauce: Carefully spoon cocktail sauce into the center of the cup, filling it right up to the top without overflowing. If desired, you can place a dollop on top of the shrimp for extra flavor and flair.
  5. Garnish: For a final touch, squeeze a wedge of fresh lemon over the shrimp cups for a burst of citrus flavor. If desired, you can also sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley on top for added color and freshness.
  6. Serve: Arrange the shrimp cocktail cups on a serving platter. For the best flavor, serve these appetizers chilled. If preparing in advance, refrigerate the assembled cups until ready to serve, but add the lemon juice and parsley right before serving for maximum freshness.

Enjoy the delightful taste of Shrimp Cocktail Cups at your next festive event!

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Chocolate-Dipped Pretzel Rods

festive chocolate covered pretzels

Chocolate-Dipped Pretzel Rods are a delightful and festive treat that adds a sweet and salty twist to your holiday spread. These crunchy pretzel rods are coated in smooth melted chocolate and can be decorated with colorful sprinkles, crushed nuts, or drizzled with white chocolate for an extra touch. They are easy to make and perfect for both kids and adults alike, making them a fun addition to any Christmas party.

Ingredients Quantity
Pretzel rods 1 bag (about 10-12 rods)
Semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 cup
White chocolate chips 1/2 cup (optional for drizzling)
Sprinkles or crushed nuts 1 cup (optional, for decoration)

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Prepare Your Workspace: Begin by gathering all the ingredients and equipment you’ll need. Set up a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to allow the chocolate to set.
  2. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Heat in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring after each interval until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat, as chocolate can burn easily.
  3. Dip the Pretzel Rods: Take a pretzel rod and dip it into the melted chocolate, ensuring that about two-thirds of the rod is coated. You can use a spoon to help cover the pretzel if necessary. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off back into the bowl.
  4. Add Decorations: While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle your choice of toppings, such as colorful sprinkles or crushed nuts, over the chocolate-coated section of the pretzel rod. This step adds a festive touch and a burst of flavor!
  5. Drizzle with White Chocolate (Optional): If you’d like to add an extra layer of decoration, melt the white chocolate chips in a similar manner as the semi-sweet chocolate. Use a fork or a piping bag to drizzle the melted white chocolate over the decorated pretzel rods for a beautiful finish.
  6. Set the Pretzel Rods: Place the dipped and decorated pretzel rods on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate has completely set. If you’re in a hurry, you can place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes.
  7. Serve or Store: Once the chocolate has hardened, the pretzel rods are ready to serve! You can arrange them in a festive container, or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Enjoy the delicious and festive Chocolate-Dipped Pretzel Rods at your Christmas party!