8 Easy Party Snacks for Low-Stress Entertaining

2015-06-09
8 Easy Party Snacks for Low-Stress Entertaining

Nothing kicks off a gathering like a showstopping snack table. Use one (or more) of these easy party snacks to complete your menu. Many of these simple party snacks can be made in advance, or shortcut ingredients can be used to keep the prep as stress-free as possible. From indulgent peppermint bark to healthy chickpeas, you'll find sweet and savory recipes to satisfy every guest's cravings.

01 of 08

Party Crostini Bites

This easy party snack can be customized with whatever flavors you wish. Start with your favorite crostini base (bread, mini naan, or party rye), then go to town by piling them up with one of our ten tantalizing toppers, including shrimp cocktail, hot honey apple, and layered chutney.

02 of 08

Warm Potato Chips with Parmesan and Herbs

Turn a plain bag of potato chips into a simple party snack that will have everyone raving. Kettle chips are dressed in an irresistible combo of parmesan, herbs, garlic, and lemon zest. Warmed for just a few minutes in the oven, it's an easy party snack you'll make again and again.

03 of 08

Roasted Chickpeas

These crunchy, slightly spicy beans are a healthful alternative to chips and make for a perfect party snack. Plus, they pack in some plant-based protein! Double the recipe to feed a larger crowd.

04 of 08

Gluten-Free Tex-Mex Cheese Dip

Make a double batch of this party snack for a crowd-pleasing appetizer everyone can enjoy. This creamy, cheesy, slightly spicy dip is perfect for chips and veggies. Be sure to use a gluten-free taco seasoning mix (or make your own), as some purchased versions might contain wheat ingredients.

05 of 08

Sweet Potato Fritters with Yogurt-Chive Dipping Sauce

A bit of brown sugar is added to the batter of these easy party snacks, resulting in the ultimate savory-sweet bite. Whip up the creamy yogurt dip before you start frying up these soft, flavorful fritters to enjoy them while they're still warm and supremely tender.

06 of 08

Parmesan-Ranch Sweet Potato Snack Mix

Everyone loves ranch, so our Test Kitchen turned it into an easy party snack. Simply toss together pretzels, chips, and nuts in melted butter spiked with ranch-flavor seasoning. Finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this finger-licking-good party snack is going to disappear fast.

07 of 08

Candy Cane Bark

No sweet says holidays quite like this classic candy. This easy party snack combines vanilla and chocolate candy coating for a beautiful swirled design.

08 of 08

Pickle Wraps

You need just three ingredients to whip up this simple appetizer recipe. Spread cream cheese on a piece of deli meat (we like to use ham) and roll it around a large dill pickle. Slice and serve with toothpicks for the ultimate holiday snack.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How many finger foods do I need for parties and celebrations?

    How much food you buy depends on the number of people that you've invited, and how long the gathering is going to last. A good rule of thumb is to buy 4-6 pieces of food per person, per hour.

  • What are the best snacks for poker or board game nights?

    Finger foods that are easy to eat with one hand and aren't going to cause much of a mess are the best snacks to serve during game nights. Some great options include chips, sliders, pretzels, cookies, and charcuterie boards.

  • What are safe finger foods for children's parties?

    Make sure the food you choose is soft, easy to swallow, and cut into tiny pieces. Soft fruit, cheese, crackers, and cookie-cutter shaped sandwiches are all great options when you're trying to feed younger guests. Just avoid anything that's too tough, large, or slow to dissolve.

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