I often like to make my own gifts for friends and family to really show how much I care, so why should appetizers be any different. Let’s explore some creative DIY Christmas appetizer trays that will fill your loved ones tummies and hearts. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family gathering or a festive party with friends, these savory and sweet options will ignite the holiday cheer and festivities. Not only are these trays visually stunning, but they’re also fun and easy to make. Do them yourself or invite your loved ones to help – either way it’s going to be a lot of fun to make! So put on your favorite Christmas playlist and dive into these creative ideas that will have your guests bursting with holiday spirit!
15+ DIY Christmas Appetizer Trays
1. Cranberry Brie Bites
Let’s kick things off with cranberry brie bites. If there’s one combination that screams Christmas, it’s sweet cranberry sauce paired with a creamy slice of brie and it’s definitely the main taste combo I get excited for each year. You can make these on crackers or even nestled in baked crostini, each one topped with a sprig of rosemary or dill for a festive touch. They’re elegant, simple to make, and guaranteed to disappear as soon as they hit the tray. If you decide to make them on crostini, they can be prepped ahead of time and popped into the oven just before your guests arrive, filling the house with the heavenly smell of warm pastry and cheese.
2. Charcuterie Christmas Tree Board
Sometimes it’s not what you serve that makes it Christmassy, but the way you display it! No gathering is really a gathering without a good charcuterie tray anyway, but when it’s Christmas time, you can put the festive twist on things by displaying the cured meats and cheeses in the form of a Christmas tree! This really is a Christmas appetizer tray that is going to please everyone whilst not taking up too much time. Simply layer the appetizers into rows getting incrementally smaller. Go the extra mile by laying fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to border each treat. Cut some cheese into the shape of a star and place a pot of hummus (or any dip you choose) at the bottom for the tree pot. You can serve this on any tray or board and offer amongst your guests as you hear how impressed they are with your creativity!
3. Devilled Eggs and Pomegranate
Next up is a timeless classic and a favorite. No matter what the theme, devilled eggs can bring it! Prepare the eggs by halving hard-boiled eggs and mixing the yolks with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of paprika. Pipe the creamy mixture back into the egg whites for that classic deviled egg look. To make them Christmas-ready, sprinkle pomegranate seeds over the top, don’t worry if some garnish the tray too. Finish by adding a tiny sprig of rosemary for an aromatic touch. These bite-sized delights are easy to grab and enjoy, making them perfect for mingling. They’ll stand out on your Christmas appetizer trays with their unique flavor combination and holiday colors.
Related: 25 Fancy Christmas Dessert Ideas for a Crowd
4. Salmon & Cream Cheese Crostini
A luxurious yet simple treat that will impress your guests. I personally always make a beeline for anything salmon and cream cheese being served. Again, this works on a cracker or if you feel like it, a crispy baguette slices as the base. Spread a generous helping of cream cheese, preferably flavored with herbs like dill or chives, for a tangy taste. Top each slice with a delicate piece of smoked salmon, then garnish with a sprig of dill, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and beautifully salty capers. The vibrant orange of the salmon paired with the creamy white cheese creates a festive color palette perfect for your Christmas appetizer trays. Don’t forget the importance of a good tray! Serve these crostinis on a rustic wooden board or a slate tray to add to their charm.
5. Santa Charcuterie
Why stop at a Christmas tree Charcuterie? Bring Santa Claus to your table with a charcuterie board shaped like Saint Nick himself. Use cured meats like salami and prosciutto to create Santa’s hat, and use a camembert wheel as his face and slice off the thick crust to cleverly create his heard and beard. Decorate the rest of the tray with anything you want! Crackers, dried apricot, walnuts and breadsticks. Whatever inspires you! Cut black olives to serve as eyes, and a slice of red pepper for a cute button nose. This fun-loving arrangement is a surefire way to get your guests into the holiday spirit. A Santa Shaped Charcuterie is not just an appetizer but a centerpiece for your Christmas appetizer trays, guaranteed to make everyone chuckle.
6. Candy Cane Cheese Board
I’m going all in on these cheese boards! Shaping this one like a candy cane takes it to the next level. It’s simple, quick and will probably be the first to disappear! Arrange alternating slices of white cheese like mozzarella or brie with red foods such as salami and pepperoni, in a curved candy cane shape. Surround your creation with crackers, nuts, and dried fruits to add texture and flavor. This tray is festive, easy to assemble, and a hit with both kids and adults. Candy Cane Shaped Cheese Boards are a creative and visually striking addition to your Christmas appetizer trays and you can include crackers, sun-dried tomatoes, olives and sliced baguettes around them for people to enjoy!
7. Chocolate Charcuterie Board
Who says charcuterie is only savory? This one blew my mind, and I wish I didn’t have to wait for a party as an excuse to create one! A Chocolate Charcuterie Board blends the sweetness of the season with the elegance of a traditional charcuterie spread. This is where you raid the grocery store for all your favorite chocolatey treats. Really go for it – chocolate fingers, chocolate almonds and chocolate covered pretzels. Use dark, milk, and white chocolate pieces for more color variety, then add holiday-colored treats like strawberries, pomegranates and raspberries. This board is ideal for those who want a sweet element for their Christmas appetizer trays, offering a little something for everyone.
8. Charcuterie Chalet
A Charcuterie Chalet is a showstopper and will really impress. It’s no small fete, but it combines the creativity of a gingerbread house with the savory delights of a charcuterie board. Decorate the chalet with strips of prosciutto for shingles, and pretzel sticks to define the garden path! Surround your chalet with an assortment of meats, cheeses, and fruits to complete the home. I especially love the rosemary tree – too cute! This tray is as much a conversation piece as it is a delicious appetizer, making it a highlight of your Christmas appetizer trays. The only thing to consider is – people may not want to destroy this insanely creative piece of art!
Related: 31 Insanely Good Dessert Ideas to Bring to Christmas Dinner
9. Charcuterie Wreath
Are there no limits to a charcuterie creation? Start by arranging fresh rosemary sprigs in a circular shape to mimic the look of a holiday wreath and border the treats inside. Add rolled slices of salami, chunks of creamy mozzarella, marinated olives, cherry tomatoes, and small crackers around the greenery. Don’t stop there though, add some sweetness in the form of chocolates and strawberries. For an extra pop, sprinkle in some cranberries or pomegranate seeds to add a festive feel. This elegant yet simple appetizer is not only delicious but also a conversation starter, making it the perfect centerpiece for your Christmas appetizer trays. I especially love the candy canes!
10. Christmas Cookie and Treat Tray
I love this cookie tray! The variety is key and stacking in overlapping lines is a neat and elegant arrangement. Christmas is a time to indulge so why not pack on all the cookies, brownies, and sugary treats you’ve been denying yourself all year!
11. Antipasto Wreath
Turn a traditional antipasto platter into a festive wreath. Use a circular tray or arrange your items on a round cutting board. Skewer olives, mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes and pepperoni circles. Then place around the tray using rosemary twigs. To separate which really builds the illusion of a wreath. This Antipasto Wreath is not only beautiful but also incredibly easy to customize last minute and is completely based on your preferences.
Related: 21 Creative Christmas Party Food Ideas for a Crowd
12. Fig, Brie and Prosciutto Crostini
You may need to stop me from eating these before the party begins. This irresistible blend of sweet and savory with fig, brie, and prosciutto crostini are perfect. Spread a layer of fig jam on lightly toasted baguette slices, add a slice of creamy brie and bake again. Then top with a piece of prosciutto. Why not go further and garnish with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of crushed pistachios. These crostinis are elegant, flavorful, and perfect for a sophisticated addition to your Christmas appetizer trays. They’re easy to prepare yet look gourmet, making them yet another impressive arrangement for your Christmas party.
13. Canapes Selection
Canapés are the epitome of bite-sized sophistication, and offering a variety will ensure there’s something for everyone. Create a selection featuring beetroot and feta canapés: earthy and tangy. Boil, slice and then layer with feta. Next is pear and goat cheese wrapped in prosciutto with a leaf of arugula: a perfect balance of sweet and creamy. Lastly, simple mini quiche squares: rich and indulgent. Perfect combination of different flavors and looks so good on a tray together! These colorful, delicious bites add variety to your Christmas appetizer trays will keep your guests coming back for more.
14. Hot Chocolate Tray
Get your coco mugs ready for this cozy, sweet option. Assemble a hot chocolate candy and snack tray by including mini marshmallows, candy canes, chocolate treats and candy sprinkles for stirring into hot chocolate. Go crazy on this one, and pack in toffee popcorn, fudge, pretzel rods, spiced nuts, and anything your inner child has been denied and deserves. It’s fine, you’ve been good this year! This tray is perfect for guests of all ages and adds a warm, comforting element to your Christmas appetizer trays. Pair it with a self-serve hot chocolate bar for extra fun and get all your guests excited by what they can create.
15. Bauble Charcuterie
Wrapping up with another festive themed charcuterie. Why not arrange into “baubles” using round dishes filled with your favorite meats, cheeses, and accompaniments. Arrange on a large platter to resemble a large Christmas tree ornament, or make a few small ones to dot around the table. Each bauble can have its own theme—one for spicy items, one for mild cheeses and one filled with sweet treats. The possibilities are endless! These charcuterie baubles are a charming way to elevate your Christmas appetizer trays.
Final Thoughts
So just like the gifts, we’re wrapping up this list with love! Make your party unforgettable with these creative and savory Christmas appetizer trays. From festive Charcuteries with the most fabulous Christmas shapes like candy canes and wreaths to sophisticated options like crostinis and canapés, there’s something for every taste. These trays aren’t just food; they’re a treat for the eyes too. So gather your ingredients, get the creative juices flowing, and let your appetizers speak for themselves. Merry Christmas and happy crafting!
