11 Cranberry Christmas Appetizer Recipes That Add a Pop of Color

When planning holiday gatherings, festive appetizers that look and taste wonderful are always a hit. I’ve rounded up 11 cranberry Christmas appetizers to add a vibrant burst of color to your table. From the creamy delight of Cranberry Brie Bites to the unexpected twist of Cranberry Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar Chips, each recipe is designed to impress your guests. These dishes are sure to make your holiday spread unforgettable. Curious to see the full list?

Cranberry Brie Bites

Cranberry Brie Bites are a delightful appetizer that combines the creamy richness of brie cheese with the tartness of cranberry sauce, all nestled in flaky puff pastry. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any festive occasion, these bites offer a burst of flavor in every bite.

With minimal ingredients and a simple preparation process, you can easily impress your guests with this elegant and delicious treat. The combination of the buttery puff pastry, warm melted brie, and the sweet and tangy cranberry sauce creates a harmony of textures and flavors that are irresistible.

These bite-sized treats aren’t only eye-catching but also a crowd-pleaser, making them an ideal choice for entertaining. Serve them as a starter at your Christmas dinner, or enjoy them as a snack with a glass of wine during a cozy gathering with friends and family.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6 people):

• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
• 8 oz Brie cheese
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• Flour, for dusting
• Non-stick cooking spray or butter, for greasing

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Tray: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray or butter to guarantee the bites don’t stick during baking.
2. Roll Out the Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed puff pastry sheet to smooth out the creases and stretch it slightly without thinning it too much. This will help in cutting out even squares for the bites.
3. Cut the Pastry: Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the puff pastry into 24 equal squares. The size should be approximately 2×2 inches to fit comfortably into the mini muffin tin compartments.
4. Prepare the Brie: Cut the Brie cheese into small cubes, roughly 1/2 inch in size. This size allows the cheese to melt perfectly inside the pastry.
5. Assemble the Bites: Place a square of puff pastry into each compartment of the mini muffin tin, pressing gently to form a small cup. Add one cube of Brie into each pastry cup.
6. Add Cranberry Sauce and Nuts: Spoon a small amount of cranberry sauce over each piece of Brie. If desired, sprinkle a few chopped pecans on top for added crunch and flavor.
7. Bake the Bites: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the Brie is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the bites cool slightly before removing them from the tin. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh rosemary before serving warm to your guests.

Extra Tips:

For added elegance, consider using a serrated knife to trim the rind off the Brie before cubing it, ensuring a smooth, creamy melt. If you prefer a sweeter touch, mix a bit of honey with the cranberry sauce before spooning it onto the Brie.

Additionally, experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds as a topping for varied texture and taste. Remember, these bites are best enjoyed warm, so plan to serve them fresh from the oven for maximum enjoyment.

Cranberry Salsa With Cinnamon Sugar Chips

Cranberry Salsa With Cinnamon Sugar Chips is a festive and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for your holiday gatherings. This dish combines the tartness of cranberries with the heat of jalapeños and the freshness of cilantro, creating a vibrant salsa that pairs wonderfully with the sweet and crispy cinnamon sugar chips.

It’s an appetizer that not only looks stunning on your table but also delights the taste buds with its unique blend of flavors. This recipe is simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient choice for entertaining. The cranberry salsa can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

The cinnamon sugar chips are best made fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for a day or two. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for small gatherings or as part of a larger spread when entertaining.

Ingredients:

*Cranberry Salsa*

• 12 ounces fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt to taste

Cinnamon Sugar Chips

• 6 flour tortillas
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cranberry Salsa:
• Rinse the cranberries under cold water and drain well. Add the cranberries to a food processor and pulse until they’re roughly chopped.
• Transfer the chopped cranberries to a large bowl and add the sugar, cilantro, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until all ingredients are combined. Allow the salsa to sit for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld.
2. Make the Cinnamon Sugar Chips:
• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cut the flour tortillas into wedges or strips, depending on your preference.
• In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon together. Brush the melted butter onto both sides of the tortilla pieces and then sprinkle generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture.
• Arrange the tortilla pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the chips are golden brown and crispy. Allow them to cool completely before serving.
3. Serve:
• Place the cranberry salsa in a serving bowl and arrange the cinnamon sugar chips around it. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors.

Extra Tips:

When making the cranberry salsa, feel free to adjust the amount of sugar based on your preference for sweetness. If you prefer a spicier salsa, you can leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add an extra one.

For the cinnamon sugar chips, verify the tortillas are evenly coated with butter and cinnamon sugar for the best flavor. If you’re preparing these in advance, store the chips separately from the salsa to keep them from becoming soggy. Enjoy this appetizer as a festive addition to your holiday celebrations!

Cranberry and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms

Cranberries aren’t just for sauces and desserts; they also make a delightful addition to savory appetizers, especially during the holiday season. Cranberry and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms are a festive and flavorful dish that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the tangy taste of goat cheese and the sweet-tartness of cranberries. This appetizer is perfect for a Christmas gathering, offering a sophisticated yet simple dish that can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving.

The combination of creamy goat cheese with dried cranberries and fresh herbs creates a filling that’s both rich and invigorating, while the mushrooms add a meaty texture that complements the cheese perfectly. The dish isn’t only pleasing to the palate but is also visually appealing, with the bright red of the cranberries contrasting beautifully against the creamy filling and the golden-brown tops of the mushrooms. This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it an excellent choice for intimate holiday dinners or as part of a larger buffet spread.

Ingredients:

• 18-24 large button or cremini mushrooms
• 8 oz goat cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
• 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will guarantee that your mushrooms cook evenly and the tops become a lovely golden brown.
2. Prepare Mushrooms: Clean the mushrooms gently with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Carefully remove the stems and set them aside. You can chop the stems and add them to the filling if desired, or save them for another use.
3. Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, chopped cranberries, rosemary, parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. If using, add the chopped mushroom stems to the mixture. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Stuff the Mushrooms: Using a small spoon, fill each mushroom cap with the goat cheese mixture, mounding it slightly. If desired, sprinkle a mixture of breadcrumbs and chopped walnuts on top of each stuffed mushroom for added texture.
5. Bake the Mushrooms: Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the tops with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden brown.
6. Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. These stuffed mushrooms are best served warm, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, choose mushrooms that are uniformly sized so they cook evenly. If you prefer a smoother filling, pulse the goat cheese mixture in a food processor until creamy before stuffing the mushrooms. Additionally, consider experimenting with different herbs such as thyme or sage to tailor the flavors to your preference.

If you need to prepare this dish in advance, you can stuff the mushrooms a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator, then bake them just before serving.

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

The Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball is a festive and flavorful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. This delightful dish combines the creamy texture of cheese with the sweet-tart flavor of dried cranberries and the crunchy goodness of pecans. The combination creates a mouthwatering appetizer that isn’t only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying to your taste buds.

Ideal for serving 4-6 people, this cheese ball is a great addition to any holiday spread, offering a blend of textures and flavors that will impress your guests.

This recipe is straightforward and can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient option for busy holiday schedules. By taking a few simple ingredients and mixing them together, you can create a dish that looks sophisticated and tastes delicious. The Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball pairs well with crackers, fresh vegetables, or slices of baguette, adding a touch of elegance to any Christmas gathering.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
• 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Assorted crackers or fresh vegetables for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix them together until well combined and smooth. You can use a hand mixer or a sturdy spoon for this step.
2. Add Flavorings: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture. This will give your cheese ball a well-balanced and flavorful base.
3. Incorporate the Cranberries: Add the chopped dried cranberries to the cheese mixture and stir until they’re evenly distributed. The cranberries will provide a sweet and tart contrast to the savory cheese.
4. Shape the Cheese Ball: Using your hands or a spatula, shape the cheese mixture into a ball. If the mixture is too soft, you can refrigerate it for about 15 minutes to make it easier to handle.
5. Coat with Pecans: Spread the chopped pecans on a flat surface or a shallow dish. Roll the cheese ball in the pecans, pressing gently to adhere them to the surface, until the entire ball is coated. The pecans will add a delightful crunch to every bite.
6. Chill the Cheese Ball: Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm. This will help the flavors to meld together and make the cheese ball easier to slice and serve.
7. Serve and Garnish: Before serving, let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to spread. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for added color and flavor. Serve with an assortment of crackers or fresh vegetables.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, verify the cream cheese is thoroughly softened before mixing; this will help achieve a smooth texture. If you want to enhance the flavors even more, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

Additionally, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, making it a convenient option for entertaining. If you prefer a slightly sweeter cheese ball, substitute some of the pecans with chopped walnuts or add a drizzle of honey over the top before serving.

Cranberry Jalapeño Dip

Cranberry Jalapeño Dip is a festive and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. The combination of sweet, tart cranberries and spicy jalapeños creates a vibrant taste that will delight your taste buds. This dish isn’t only delicious but also visually appealing, with its cheerful red and green colors adding a festive touch to your table.

Serve it with crackers, tortilla chips, or even as a topping for cream cheese for a simple, yet crowd-pleasing appetizer.

This recipe is straightforward and can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient choice for busy holiday schedules. The freshness of the cranberries combined with the heat of the jalapeños provides a delightful contrast, while the addition of sugar and lime juice balances the flavors perfectly.

With a serving size suitable for 4-6 people, this Cranberry Jalapeño Dip is sure to become a favorite at your holiday gatherings.

Ingredients (for 4-6 people):

• 12 oz fresh cranberries
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cranberries: Rinse the cranberries under cold water and drain them well. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step guarantees that the dip doesn’t become too watery.
2. Chop the Ingredients: In a food processor, pulse the cranberries until they’re finely chopped but not pureed. Be careful not to over-process. Transfer them to a medium-sized mixing bowl.
3. Mix the Ingredients: Add the sugar, finely chopped jalapeños, cilantro, green onions, lime juice, and salt to the bowl with the cranberries. Stir well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly. Allow the mixture to sit for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
4. Prepare the Cream Cheese: Spread the softened cream cheese onto a serving platter, creating an even layer. You can use a spatula to smooth it out nicely.
5. Assemble the Dip: After the cranberry mixture has rested, gently spoon it over the layer of cream cheese, spreading it evenly. Make sure to cover the cream cheese completely for a consistent taste in each bite.
6. Serve: Serve the dip immediately with your choice of crackers or tortilla chips. Alternatively, cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before serving, allowing it to come to room temperature before enjoying.

Extra Tips:

To make the Cranberry Jalapeño Dip spicier, consider keeping some of the jalapeño seeds or using additional jalapeños. If you prefer a milder version, use only one jalapeño and remove all seeds and membranes.

For a smoother texture, you can also blend the cranberry mixture a bit more, but be cautious not to turn it into a puree. Finally, if you’re preparing this dip ahead of time, remember to bring it to room temperature before serving to guarantee the flavors are at their best.

Cranberry and Pistachio Crostini

The Cranberry and Pistachio Crostini is an elegant and flavorful appetizer perfect for a festive Christmas gathering. These bite-sized delights combine the tartness of cranberries with the nutty crunch of pistachios, all set atop a crispy crostini base. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a standout appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests.

Whether you’re hosting a large holiday party or a cozy family dinner, these crostini are a delightful addition to your menu. This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it an ideal choice for intimate gatherings. The preparation is straightforward, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the festivities rather than being stuck in the kitchen.

The vibrant red of the cranberries paired with the green pistachios adds a visually appealing touch to your holiday spread. With simple ingredients and easy assembly, Cranberry and Pistachio Crostini will quickly become a holiday favorite.

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people):

• 1 French baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/3 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
• 4 oz goat cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cranberry Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, and water. Place over medium heat and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes or until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
2. Toast the Baguette Slices: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for about 5-7 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Remove from oven and let them cool slightly.
3. Mix the Goat Cheese Spread: In a small bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, honey, and chopped rosemary. Mix until smooth and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Crostini: Spread a generous amount of the goat cheese mixture onto each toasted baguette slice. Top with a spoonful of the cooled cranberry sauce and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios.
5. Serve: Arrange the completed crostini on a serving platter. Optionally, drizzle a little extra honey over the top for added sweetness before serving.

Extra Tips:

To make the crostini even more festive, consider adding a sprinkle of zest from an orange for a citrusy note. If you prefer a sweeter cranberry topping, you can adjust the sugar in the cranberry sauce to suit your taste.

Additionally, these crostini can be prepared ahead of time; simply assemble them just before serving to maintain their crispness. Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and consider experimenting with different types of bread or cheese for a unique variation.

Cranberry Meatballs

Cranberry Meatballs are a delicious and festive appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. These savory meatballs are coated in a tangy cranberry sauce, combining sweet and savory flavors that are certain to impress your guests. The dish is simple to prepare and can be made in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with your friends and family.

Whether you’re hosting a party or just want a special treat, Cranberry Meatballs are a delightful choice that brings a touch of holiday cheer to any occasion.

The meatballs are made with a mixture of ground beef and pork, seasoned with herbs and spices for a rich flavor. The cranberry sauce is a balance of sweet and tart, with ingredients like cranberry sauce, chili sauce, and brown sugar, creating an irresistible glaze. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for a small gathering. The combination of flavors and ease of preparation makes Cranberry Meatballs a go-to appetizer for the holiday season.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 can (14 ounces) jellied cranberry sauce
• 1 bottle (12 ounces) chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will guarantee your meatballs cook evenly.
2. Prepare Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Form Meatballs: Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into approximately 1-inch meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased baking dish.
4. Bake Meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through.
5. Prepare Cranberry Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, in a medium saucepan, combine the jellied cranberry sauce, chili sauce, brown sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
6. Combine and Serve: Once the meatballs are done, carefully transfer them to a large pot or slow cooker. Pour the cranberry sauce over the meatballs and gently stir to coat them evenly. Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for an additional 10-15 minutes on low heat to absorb the flavors. Serve warm and enjoy!

Extra Tips:

For best results, make sure the meatball mixture is well-combined to prevent them from falling apart during cooking. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture or increase the amount of chili sauce.

These meatballs can be made a day in advance and reheated in the sauce, making them a convenient option for busy hosts. If using a slow cooker, you can keep the meatballs warm for several hours, allowing guests to help themselves throughout your gathering.

Cranberry Walnut Pinwheels

Cranberry Walnut Pinwheels are the perfect festive appetizer for your holiday gatherings. These delightful pinwheels are filled with a creamy mixture of tangy cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and smooth cream cheese, all rolled up in a soft flour tortilla. The combination of flavors provides a sweet, savory, and slightly tart taste that’s sure to impress your guests.

Serve these as a starter or snack, and watch them disappear in no time. This recipe is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to relax and enjoy the festivities. The vibrant red color of the cranberries adds a pop of holiday cheer, making these pinwheels not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Suitable for serving 4-6 people, these pinwheels are a great addition to your Christmas appetizer menu.

Ingredients for Cranberry Walnut Pinwheels (serving size: 4-6 people):

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chopped walnuts, dried cranberries, and green onions. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Add the cinnamon and honey, then season with a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Spread the Filling: Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a quarter of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the entire surface of the tortilla, leaving about a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
3. Roll and Wrap: Starting from one end, tightly roll the tortilla into a log shape. Wrap the rolled tortilla in plastic wrap to secure its shape. Repeat the spreading and rolling process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
4. Chill: Place the wrapped tortilla rolls in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the filling set and makes the pinwheels easier to slice.
5. Slice and Serve: Once chilled, remove the plastic wrap from the rolls. Using a sharp knife, slice each roll into 1/2-inch thick pinwheels. Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter and serve immediately or keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Extra Tips:

For best results, verify the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing, as this will make it easier to blend with the other ingredients. You can prepare the pinwheels a day in advance; just keep them wrapped and refrigerated until you’re ready to slice and serve.

If you prefer a little extra sweetness, consider adding a few more dried cranberries or a touch more honey to the filling. Finally, use a serrated knife for slicing to avoid squashing the pinwheels and to maintain their round shape.

Cranberry and Feta Stuffed Phyllo Cups

Cranberry and Feta Stuffed Phyllo Cups are a delightful holiday appetizer that combines the tartness of cranberries with the creamy, tangy flavor of feta cheese, all nestled in crispy phyllo pastry shells. These bite-sized treats are perfect for Christmas gatherings, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful. The combination of sweet and savory makes them an irresistible addition to any festive spread.

These phyllo cups aren’t only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making them an ideal choice for entertaining. The recipe uses store-bought phyllo shells, which saves time and guarantees consistent results. The filling can be prepared in advance, allowing you to assemble and bake the cups just before serving. Whether you’re hosting a party or attending a potluck, these Cranberry and Feta Stuffed Phyllo Cups are sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients (serves 4-6 people):

• 24 pre-made phyllo pastry cups
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• Zest of 1 orange
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cranberry Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened. Set aside to cool.
2. Mix the Filling: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, walnuts (if using), and orange zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once the cranberry sauce has cooled, add it to the feta mixture and gently fold until well combined.
3. Fill the Phyllo Cups: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the phyllo cups on a baking sheet. Using a spoon, fill each cup with the cranberry and feta mixture, making sure each cup is generously filled.
4. Bake the Cups: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the phyllo cups are golden and crispy. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the warm phyllo cups to a serving platter. Garnish with additional parsley or a sprinkle of orange zest if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors.

Extra Tips:

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of honey to the cranberry sauce for a touch of sweetness. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts, and the recipe will still be delicious.

You can make the cranberry sauce up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of your gathering and allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, be sure to monitor the phyllo cups closely while baking, as they can quickly become overly browned if left unattended.

Cranberry Glazed Chicken Wings

Get ready to impress your guests this holiday season with these delightful Cranberry Glazed Chicken Wings. This festive appetizer combines the tangy sweetness of cranberries with the savory goodness of chicken wings, making it a perfect addition to your Christmas spread.

The cranberry glaze is rich with flavors, incorporating a touch of honey and a hint of spice to balance the tartness of the cranberries, resulting in a lip-smacking treat that’s both sweet and savory. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish, these wings are sure to be a hit.

Perfect for a serving size of 4-6 people, these cranberry glazed wings aren’t only delicious but also easy to prepare, requiring just a few simple ingredients. The wings are baked to perfection, ensuring a crispy exterior that pairs beautifully with the sticky, flavorful glaze.

With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this recipe allows you to spend more time enjoying the festivities and less time in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken wings
• 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cranberries and chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to preheat. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking and for easier cleanup.
2. Prepare the Chicken Wings: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring they crisp up nicely. Season them with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Bake the Wings: Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
4. Make the Cranberry Glaze: While the wings are baking, combine cranberry sauce, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir well and bring to a simmer, allowing the mixture to thicken slightly.
5. Glaze the Wings: Once the wings are cooked, remove them from the oven and brush generously with the cranberry glaze. Return them to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize and coat the wings thoroughly.
6. Serve and Garnish: Remove the wings from the oven and let them cool slightly. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with fresh cranberries and chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Extra Tips:

For extra crispy wings, you can broil them for the final 2-3 minutes of cooking after applying the glaze, but keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze.

These wings are best served fresh, but you can prepare the cranberry glaze ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it, making the cooking process even quicker on the day of your event.

Cranberry Prosciutto Flatbread

Cranberry Prosciutto Flatbread is a delightful holiday appetizer that combines the sweet-tart flavor of cranberries with the savory richness of prosciutto. This dish is perfect for Christmas gatherings, offering a festive blend of colors and flavors that are certain to impress your guests.

The crispiness of the flatbread, combined with the creamy cheese and the aromatic herbs, creates a mouthwatering experience that’s both sophisticated and satisfying. This appetizer isn’t only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy holiday hosts.

With a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can create a stunning dish that looks as good as it tastes. Whether you’re hosting a large dinner party or a small family gathering, this Cranberry Prosciutto Flatbread will be a hit with everyone.

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people):

• 2 pieces of flatbread (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 4 ounces prosciutto, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup arugula (optional, for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will guarantee that your flatbread bakes evenly and crisply.
2. Prepare the Cranberry Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the fresh cranberries, honey, and balsamic vinegar. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries have burst and the mixture has thickened slightly, about 10 minutes. Set aside to cool.
3. Assemble the Flatbread: Place the flatbreads on a baking sheet. Brush each flatbread lightly with olive oil to enhance the crispiness and flavor. Evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella and crumbled goat cheese over the flatbreads.
4. Add Prosciutto and Cranberry Sauce: Layer the thin slices of prosciutto over the cheese. Drizzle the prepared cranberry sauce over the top, ensuring an even spread across the flatbreads.
5. Season and Bake: Sprinkle the chopped rosemary, along with a pinch of salt and pepper, over the flatbreads. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the flatbread is golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. If desired, top with fresh arugula before slicing the flatbread into pieces. Serve warm, and enjoy the festive flavors.

Extra Tips:

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the flatbread before baking for a hint of heat.

If you prefer a sweeter cranberry sauce, you can adjust the amount of honey to taste. For a more rustic presentation, use a pizza cutter to slice the flatbread into irregular pieces.

Additionally, if you have any leftover cranberry sauce, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week and used as a topping for other dishes.