What ingredients do I need for bite-sized Christmas tree appetizers?

To make these festive appetizers, you’ll need cream cheese, shredded mozzarella or cheddar, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and fresh parsley. Add honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness, and use pretzel sticks as edible tree trunks. Fresh rosemary sprigs make the perfect final garnish for that signature Christmas tree look.

Can I make these appetizers ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely. You can prepare the cheese base up to three days before serving. Just mix the ingredients, spread them into a pan, and store it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, cut, decorate, and chill again for a few minutes before setting them out. For the best presentation, always add toppings right before serving so they stay fresh and colorful.

How do I store bite-sized Christmas tree appetizers?

Store your finished appetizers in a single layer on a tray lined with parchment paper. Cover lightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying. Keep refrigerated for up to forty-eight hours. If you’re storing multiple layers, separate them with parchment paper. Avoid stacking them tightly because that can flatten the toppings.

What can I serve with these appetizers at a holiday party?

These bite-sized Christmas tree appetizers pair beautifully with charcuterie boards, crackers, crostini, or roasted nuts. You can also serve them next to other no-bake options like mini cheesecakes or chocolate pretzel bites. For drinks, offer sparkling cider, champagne, or cranberry spritzers to match the festive flavors.

Can I freeze bite-sized Christmas tree appetizers?

Yes, you can. Freeze the shaped cheese trees before decorating. Once frozen solid, transfer them to airtight containers or freezer bags with parchment between layers. When ready to serve, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then decorate and add pretzel sticks. Avoid freezing the toppings because cranberries and nuts can lose their texture.

How can I make them more festive or colorful?

To make these appetizers even more eye-catching, play with color and texture. Use chopped pistachios for a deeper green tone or sprinkle edible gold dust for a sparkle effect. You can also mix in bits of red bell pepper, pomegranate seeds, or finely shredded carrots for added brightness. Serving them on a rosemary-lined platter enhances their natural holiday look and adds aroma.

Bite-Sized Christmas Tree Appetizers: 7 Irresistible No-Bake Holiday Snacks

Description

Festive, no-bake bite-sized Christmas tree appetizers crafted with cream cheese, cranberries, pecans, and pretzel sticks. Simple to make, fun to serve, and perfect for any holiday gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

2 blocks (16 oz total) cream cheese, softened

½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar (optional)

¼ teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and black pepper to taste

½ cup dried cranberries, finely chopped

½ cup toasted pecans, chopped

2 tablespoons parsley, finely chopped

1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)

Pretzel sticks (tree trunks)

Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional, for toppers)

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Instructions

1. Mix the cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.

2. Spread mixture into a parchment-lined 8×8 inch pan and freeze for 25 minutes.

3. Chop cranberries, pecans, and parsley; mix with honey or syrup if desired.

4. Cut chilled cheese mixture into triangles; insert pretzel sticks for trunks.

5. Press cranberry-pecan mixture onto triangles; garnish with rosemary.

6. Chill until ready to serve.

Notes

Best served chilled. Prepare up to 2 days ahead and store in fridge. Add toppings just before serving for best freshness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: no bake dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 tree
Calories: 95
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 120mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 20mg