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.

Related Article

Crab Rangoon Roll-Ups Are So Much Better Than the Original

Crab Rangoon Roll-Ups Are So Much Better Than the Original

This crab rangoon roll-up recipe is the perfect balance of crispy tortilla shell and creamy crab filling. Serve them with your favorite sweet chili sauce.
Ricotta and Parmesan Spread

Ricotta and Parmesan Spread

Basil, oregano, and chives brighten up this rich Parmesan and ricotta cheese spread. Start your next dinner party with this easy, cheesy appetizer. Just add slices of baguette and veggies for dipping!
Pineapple-Ginger Punch

Pineapple-Ginger Punch

Pineapple-Ginger Punch might just be your new favorite summer drink. To transform the refreshing punch recipe into a cocktail, spike the fresh ginger-infused sip with rum or vodka.
Why You Should Be Eating More Pecans

Why You Should Be Eating More Pecans

Beyond their delicious taste, pecans are also packed to the brim with nutrition. Read on to find out just what makes pecans such a healthy addition to your lifestyle as well as some tasty ways to get started.
What Is Natural Flavor? Here’s What It Means on Food Labels

What Is Natural Flavor? Here’s What It Means on Food Labels

What does “natural flavors” mean when you see it on a food or drink label? A flavorist explains how your favorite strawberry drink gets that taste.
13 High-Protein Breakfast Ideas for a Morning Brain Boost

13 High-Protein Breakfast Ideas for a Morning Brain Boost

Looking for a protein-loaded breakfast? Here are our best energy packed breakfast ideas to give your morning a boost. Incorporate these recipes into your daily routine for a high protein breakfast.
How Long to Cook Steak on a Grill for Perfect Results Every Time

How Long to Cook Steak on a Grill for Perfect Results Every Time

Conquer your next cookout with tips on all you need to know about how long to cook steak on a grill, the best cuts to buy, and how to serve the steak.
How to Cook Eggplant—5 Simple Methods

How to Cook Eggplant—5 Simple Methods

If you're wondering how to cook eggplant, keep reading. On the grill, roasted, sautéed, and—yes—even in the microwave, this vegetable is as versatile as it is delicious.
How to Cook Sweet Potatoes—6 Different Methods Including Baked, Fried, and More

How to Cook Sweet Potatoes—6 Different Methods Including Baked, Fried, and More

Mash them, bake them, pressure-cook them, or turn them into fries—whatever your method, follow these steps to make perfect sweet potatoes every time.
Easy Chicken and Broccoli Recipes You'll Be Making on Repeat

Easy Chicken and Broccoli Recipes You'll Be Making on Repeat

From all-American casseroles to Korean-style suppers to Italian chicken Parm, these chicken and broccoli recipes show how that combo *can* be something you eagerly anticipate. We’ve rounded up our best healthy chicken and broccoli recipes (as well as a few more decadent options) to help remix your weeknight menu.
16 Cauliflower Recipes to Make if You're Cooking Tonight

16 Cauliflower Recipes to Make if You're Cooking Tonight

This round-up of cauliflower recipes features the versatile veggie as the star of the plate. Each of these recipes with cauliflower provides a wide array of options everyone can enjoy, any night of the week.
Snap Peas, Snow Peas, and Farro with Oranges and Citrus-Sesame Vinaigrette

Snap Peas, Snow Peas, and Farro with Oranges and Citrus-Sesame Vinaigrette

The crunchy combo of snap and snow peas complements the chewy bite of farro and contrasts the juicy orange sections.
Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole

Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole

Try this make-ahead breakfast casserole to feed a crowd on a busy weekend. The zesty Mexican flavors will inspire everyone to come back for seconds.
Fire-Roasted Tomato and Italian Sausage Grinders

Fire-Roasted Tomato and Italian Sausage Grinders

Use canned fire-roasted tomatoes to rev up this classic Italian sausage sandwich recipe.
Gluten-Free Giant Ginger Cookies

Gluten-Free Giant Ginger Cookies

We've used a 1/4 cup of cookie dough for each of these giant, molasses-infused cookies. If you prefer smaller cookies, there's instructions for mini gluten-free ginger cookies, too.
Gluten-Free Fresh Herb Vinaigrette

Gluten-Free Fresh Herb Vinaigrette

In just 10 minutes, you can have a zesty homemade salad dressing ready. The olive oil will solidify when chilled, so let the vinaigrette stand at room temperature 1 hour before serving. Don't forget to shake it well!
Portobello Pot Roast

Portobello Pot Roast

Meaty portobellos stand in for beef in this vegetarian portobello pot roast that's as rich as the classic but cooks in a fraction of the time.
Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Cookies
How to Smoke Food Even if You Don't Have an Actual Smoker

How to Smoke Food Even if You Don't Have an Actual Smoker

Add complex flavors to your meats, seafood, grains, and veggies with our Test Kitchen tutorials on how to smoke food at home using a charcoal or gas grill.
Grilled Trout Stuffed with Lemon and Herbs

Grilled Trout Stuffed with Lemon and Herbs

This is a simple, flavorful way to grill almost any whole fish, with a 'stuffing' designed not to be eaten, but to flavor the fish from the inside out.