Elegant New Year’s Eve appetizers with shrimp, smoked salmon, cucumbers, and puff pastry served on a festive platter with champagne glasses.

Easy New Year’s Eve Appetizers

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Quick, elegant & perfect for celebrations 🎉

Ring in the New Year with these Easy New Year’s Eve Appetizers simple, elegant, and ready in just 20 minutes! Whether you’re hosting a glamorous party or keeping it cozy at home, these bite-sized delights are guaranteed crowd-pleasers. From savory crostini to bubbly-worthy skewers, each recipe combines bold flavor with effortless presentation. Think fancy without the fuss. Perfect for last-minute hosting or holiday grazing tables, these Emma’s Cake Studio favorites make every celebration sparkle!

Time Breakdown

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 8–10 appetizer portions (per recipe idea)

Quick & Easy 20-Minute Appetizer Ideas

1. Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Bites

  • 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
  • ½ cup brie cheese, cubed
  • ¼ cup cranberry sauce
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary
    Instructions: Cut pastry into 2-inch squares, place in mini muffin tin. Add brie and cranberry sauce, bake at 375°F for 12 minutes. Garnish with thyme. ✨

2. Prosciutto-Wrapped Dates (or Bacon Alternative)

  • 12 Medjool dates, pitted
  • 6 slices prosciutto or smoked beef, halved
  • Optional: almonds or goat cheese for filling
    Instructions: Stuff dates, wrap with prosciutto, and bake at 400°F for 10 minutes until crisp. Sweet, salty perfection! 💛

3. Sparkling Grape & Cheese Skewers

  • Red and green grapes
  • Cubes of cheddar or gouda
  • Fresh mint leaves
    Instructions: Alternate grapes, cheese, and mint on cocktail sticks. Drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze.

4. Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Fresh lemon wedges
    Instructions: Toss shrimp with butter and garlic, sauté or grill for 3 minutes per side. Serve with lemon. Light, fancy, and fast!

5. Cucumber Smoked Salmon Bites

  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • 3 oz smoked salmon
  • 2 tbsp cream cheese
  • Fresh dill for garnish
    Instructions: Spread cream cheese on cucumber slices, top with salmon and dill. Chill 5 minutes before serving. Elegant & effortless!

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This spread doesn’t require fancy gadgets just a few reliable basics to keep party prep simple and stress-free:

  • Baking sheet or mini muffin pan
  • Sharp knife & cutting board
  • Mixing bowl
  • Skewers or toothpicks
  • Serving platter
  • Small tongs or cocktail forks

Pro Tips

  • Prep ahead: Assemble everything a few hours in advance and chill; bake or heat right before serving.
  • Balance flavors: Pair sweet (fruit-based) with savory (cheese/meat) bites for variety.
  • Add sparkle: Serve with a bubbly cocktail or mocktail to elevate your spread. 🍾
  • Presentation matters: Use white platters, gold accents, and fresh herbs for a luxe New Year’s vibe. ✨

Nutrition Table (per average serving of 2 appetizers)

Serving SizeCaloriesProteinCarbsFatFiberSugar
2 pieces1205g8g7g0g3g