Need something quick and delicious for your next holiday party? These Last Minute Appetizers are the answer. Whether it’s Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, or a cozy family brunch, these easy bites come together fast, look beautiful, and taste like you’ve been cooking all day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in minutes with everyday ingredients.
- Perfect for Christmas Eve appetizers or any last-minute get-together.
- Looks fancy but is totally stress-free to make.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for your go-to holiday appetizers easy platter, along with what each ingredient adds:
- Mini pizza bases : The crisp, golden foundation for your mini pizzas.
- Mozzarella cheese : Melts into a creamy, gooey layer that ties everything together.
- Cherry tomatoes : Adds color and juicy sweetness to balance the cheese.
- Fresh basil : A fragrant pop of freshness to lift every bite.
- Olive oil : For brushing and flavor, giving your bites that glossy, bakery-style finish.
- Salt and pepper : To bring out all those cozy, holiday flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
These holiday appetizers recipes are designed to be simple, quick, and crowd-pleasing. Follow these easy steps:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place your mini pizza bases or toasted baguette slices on the tray. Brush lightly with olive oil.
- Add a slice of mozzarella on each base and top with halved cherry tomatoes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil right before serving for that perfect Italian-inspired finish.
Mistakes to Avoid
When making Last Minute Appetizers, it’s easy to rush. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Don’t overload your mini pizzas or crostini with toppings—they’ll get soggy fast.
- Avoid skipping preheating. A hot oven ensures that crispy finish you want.
- Don’t use watery tomatoes. If they’re too juicy, dab them dry with a paper towel first.
Pro Tips
- For a festive twist, try using cranberry sauce and brie, like this rosemary fig baked brie.
- Turn leftovers into fun holiday snacks by mixing crispy bits with nuts and pretzels.
- Keep a batch of puff pastry or mini pizza bases in your freezer for last-minute guests.
- Try seasonal toppings like roasted peppers or goat cheese for variety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these warm from the oven with sparkling drinks or alongside other Christmas recipes appetizers. They also make a great starter for Christmas brunch or New Year’s Eve appetizers.
For a fresh touch, pair them with a chilled salad or a small bowl of marinated olives.
Last Minute Holiday Mini Pizzas
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
Mini Pizzas
- mini pizza bases or toasted baguette slices
- mozzarella cheese sliced
- cherry tomatoes halved
- fresh basil
- olive oil for brushing and drizzling
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place your mini pizza bases or toasted baguette slices on the tray. Brush lightly with olive oil.
- Add a slice of mozzarella on each base and top with halved cherry tomatoes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil right before serving for that perfect Italian-inspired finish.
Notes
- Don’t overload with toppings to avoid sogginess.
- Dab wet ingredients like tomatoes and mozzarella dry before baking.
- Preheating is key for crispiness.
- These bites are ideal for any holiday moment!
FAQs
Why are my mini pizzas soggy?
This happens when the toppings have too much liquid. Pat ingredients like tomatoes or mozzarella dry before assembling. Also, bake on high heat to get a crisp base for your holiday appetizers easy.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the bases and toppings up to 6 hours in advance. Just store them separately, then bake right before serving. This makes them perfect Christmas appetizers easy for last-minute guests.
What other quick holiday snacks can I make?
If you want variety, try cheese balls, pinwheels, or simple dips like a warm spinach one. For something show-stopping, this baked brie is a reader favorite for holiday appetizers recipes.
Conclusion
These Last Minute Appetizers are your secret weapon for stress-free entertaining. Whether you’re hosting Christmas Eve appetizers or looking for ideas for New Year’s Eve appetizers, these bites bring festive cheer in every warm, crispy bite. Save this recipe to your holiday board on Pinterest so you’ll always be ready for a delicious moment!
