Best Appetizers for New Year’s Parties – the Test Kitchen’s Favorites

Appetizer recipes are always fun to create in the Test Kitchen, and we always have plenty of willing tasters when we make them. Over time, we seem to have favorites that we personally go back to when we entertain. We selected some of our favorite recipes to help you with your New Year’s entertaining.

Baked Cranberry Jalapeno Dip – a seasonal favorite – Samantha

Fresh cranberries are one of my favorite fall and winter seasonal berries. Whether it’s fresh cranberry sauce, or candied cranberries dropped into cocktails, I love using them throughout the holidays. They are wonderful in savory recipes, too! Dips are usually my “go-to” when I have to bring something to a party. They are simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser. For a New Year’s Eve party, Baked Cranberry Jalapeno Dip is the most delicious combination of creamy, “melty” cheese and tart cranberries, with a little heat from the jalapenos. It’s perfect when served with pita chips or crackers. A double batch might be in order!

Red Pepper Asiago Gougère Bites - a make-ahead appetizer – Kim

Appetizers can be a challenge during the holidays! Time is limited and expectations are at their highest. This recipe for Red Pepper Asiago Gougere Bites meets all my criteria for a great New Year’s appetizer. First of all, they taste amazing. I haven’t met a person who doesn’t come back for a second (or third). Next, they can be made ahead, a must when holiday gatherings come back-to-back. Lastly, they are customizable. I once substituted olives and rosemary, and they were “melt-in-your-mouth” good.

Caramelized Onion Dip – this season’s go-to appetizer - Mallory

If I am asked to bring an appetizer for a party (or if I’m just making one at home), Caramelized Onion Dip is my go-to recipe. Every. Time. Although it takes a while to get the onions to that perfect caramel-y state, it’s worth every second. I like to serve it with veggies (healthy, right?) and pretzel bites and pita chips. There is never, and I mean, never any left at the end of the party.



Savory Parmesan Thumbprints - cookies as an appetizer - Rebecca
The thing I love most about these Savory Parmesan Thumbprints (beside the fact that they taste incredible) is how easy it is to prep ahead. You can make the jams a few days before and store them in the fridge. Then on the day of your party, you just bake off the cookies. I usually rope my friends into helping me fill the thumbprints to save time and get them engaged.

Let us know which appetizers are your favorites. Happy New Year!