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

Chocolate Pudding Pie Is the Potluck Dessert Everyone Loves

Chocolate Pudding Pie Is the Potluck Dessert Everyone Loves

This easy chocolate pudding pie recipe starts with a purchased crust and is filled with luscious chocolate filling. Garnish the pie with piles of whipped cream and chocolate curls.
Crinkle Cake Is the Best Dessert You’ve Never Heard Of

Crinkle Cake Is the Best Dessert You’ve Never Heard Of

Crinkle cake is a shortcut dessert that's made with purchased phyllo dough and custard. Here's how to make this easy dessert at home.
Banoffee Pie Is Made with Decadent Layers of Caramel, Bananas, and Whipped Cream

Banoffee Pie Is Made with Decadent Layers of Caramel, Bananas, and Whipped Cream

We'll walk you through how to make banoffee pie. You'll fall in love with the layers of rich caramel, sliced bananas, and whipped cream. Don't forget the shaved chocolate on top!
Sourdough Discard Oatmeal Cookies

Sourdough Discard Oatmeal Cookies

This delicious oatmeal cookie recipe is a great use for sourdough discard. Use your choice of dried fruit to add flavor and texture to the sourdough discard recipe.
15 Easy Party Dips to Fill Up Your Appetizer Table Quickly

15 Easy Party Dips to Fill Up Your Appetizer Table Quickly

No matter which of these recipes you reach for, these easy party dips dazzle on every occasion. Perfect for big potlucks or small gatherings.
Our Calming Lemon Balm Tea Recipe Is Packed with Benefits—Here’s How to Make It

Our Calming Lemon Balm Tea Recipe Is Packed with Benefits—Here’s How to Make It

A soothing glass of lemon balm tea is our favorite way to enjoy the plentiful herb.
The Bicicletta Will Make You Feel Like You’re Summering in Italy with Every Sip

The Bicicletta Will Make You Feel Like You’re Summering in Italy with Every Sip

A mixture of an Aperol Spritz and negroni, the Bicicletta is satisfyingly bitter and refreshing. Plus, the low-proof cocktail brings the Mediterranean to you.
4 Must-Haves for a Self-Serve Margarita Bar Guests Will Love

4 Must-Haves for a Self-Serve Margarita Bar Guests Will Love

Impress your guests with this party-ready margarita bar—complete with a variety of garnishes, rimmers, and boozy stir-ins for customized cocktails.
Make-Ahead Frozen Margaritas

Make-Ahead Frozen Margaritas

Need a quick drink for a party, but don't want to spend all night playing bartender? These delicious make-ahead margaritas are the answer! Freeze them in jars overnight and they're all set for the next day.
34 Halloween Potluck Ideas for Dishes to Serve at Your Monster Mash

34 Halloween Potluck Ideas for Dishes to Serve at Your Monster Mash

Hosting a party for Halloween? Or maybe you're bringing a dish to a bash. We've got you covered with Halloween potluck ideas for happy gobblin'!
19 Fourth of July Picnic Ideas for a Tasty Outdoor Celebration

19 Fourth of July Picnic Ideas for a Tasty Outdoor Celebration

There's something for everyone on this list of Fourth of July picnic ideas, from star-spangled-salads to patriotic desserts.
Why You Should Be Adding Spirulina to Your Smoothies (and So Much More)

Why You Should Be Adding Spirulina to Your Smoothies (and So Much More)

The sustainable superfood algae called spirulina will give you a nutritional boost. Learn about the benefits of spirulina, plus why it's a sustainable option and how to eat more spirulina.
8 Anti-Inflammatory Foods to Add to Your Diet

8 Anti-Inflammatory Foods to Add to Your Diet

Add these anti-inflammatory foods to your diet to feel healthier and reduce the risk and impact of cancer, heart disease, and other chronic health issues.
The Surprising Ingredient in Raw Cookie Dough (Besides Eggs) That Could Make You Sick

The Surprising Ingredient in Raw Cookie Dough (Besides Eggs) That Could Make You Sick

Study up on the risks of eating raw cookie dough. You’re probably familiar with the danger of raw eggs, but did you know that raw flour can pose a health risk, too? Dietitians and a food safety specialist share more about raw cookie dough risks and how to stay safe as you enjoy cookie recipes and other baked goods.
Should You Wash Bananas After Bringing Them Home? Experts Clear Up the Confusion

Should You Wash Bananas After Bringing Them Home? Experts Clear Up the Confusion

Should you wash bananas after bringing them home? It might seem unnecessary since you peel the fruit before eating, but there are two very valid reasons why you should wash bananas before storing them. Learn more about the benefits of washing bananas and snag pro tips to keep them fresh for as long as possible.
How to Make Oven-Dried Tomatoes (Including a Bonus Dehydrator Method!)

How to Make Oven-Dried Tomatoes (Including a Bonus Dehydrator Method!)

Here's how to dry tomatoes in the oven or dehydrator, including our Test Kitchen's secret for storing the dried tomatoes for up to 9 months.
Canned Food Recipes For When You Want to Cook From Your Pantry

Canned Food Recipes For When You Want to Cook From Your Pantry

Think outside the box with our best canned food recipes. Featuring beans, pumpkin, tomatoes, coconut milk, crab, and so much more, these globe-trotting canned food recipes prove that budget-friendly pantry staples can transform into a restaurant-quality meal.
8 Tips for How to Make Pancake Mix Better-Tasting Than Homemade

8 Tips for How to Make Pancake Mix Better-Tasting Than Homemade

Get that made-from-scratch taste with these easy hacks for how to make pancake mix better-tasting than homemade.
Santa Fe Turkey Wraps

Santa Fe Turkey Wraps

Planning a picnic? Make sure you include these tasty turkey wraps in your basket! They have a few classic ingredients, like avocado, tomato, and lettuce, and one or two to spice things up, like roasted corn and jalapeno cream cheese.
Follow These Tips for the Best Grilled Burgers You've Ever Tasted

Follow These Tips for the Best Grilled Burgers You've Ever Tasted

It's not summer without a homemade burger on the grill and all the extras that go with it. Follow our Test Kitchen tips for the perfect burger.