Introduction
This article highlights easy, festive, and flavor-packed Christmas appetizer bites. From flaky phyllo shells to creamy, herby fillings, these small but mighty bites are perfect for any holiday spread. We’ll cover the inspiration behind the recipe, the ingredients you’ll need, how to make them, and how to serve or store them. Plus, we’ll answer the most commonly asked questions about holiday appetizers so you can make them ahead without stress. Whether you’re hosting or bringing a tray to a party, these Christmas appetizer bites are always the first to vanish from the table.
The Inspiration Behind These Christmas Appetizer Bites
Holiday parties call for food that’s quick, festive, and stress-free
The first time I brought these creamy pesto-filled phyllo cups to a neighborhood holiday gathering, I wasn’t expecting them to vanish before I even made it back from the kitchen with the wine. They were gone in minutes, and a few guests followed me around asking if I had more. That moment sealed the deal for me. These Christmas appetizer bites had to be a staple.
What makes them stand out isn’t just the look—it’s that satisfying contrast. Crisp phyllo, cool and creamy filling, sharp Parmesan, and pops of savory tomato make each one taste like a full appetizer course in a single bite.
I love that the filling can be made in advance. During the holidays, prep-ahead options are gold. And because they come together without any baking (unless you want to crisp the shells), it’s the kind of recipe you can pull off even after a full day of cookie decorating or last-minute gift wrapping.
Small bites with big holiday flavor
Appetizers set the tone for the party. These look like you went all out, but they’re simple enough to make in under 20 minutes. The pesto adds an herby, festive green, and the sun-dried tomatoes bring a jewel-like red that makes them ideal for Christmas.
You can serve them cold or slightly warm if you crisp the shells first. Either way, guests won’t stop reaching for them. They’re just the right mix of creamy, tangy, and crunchy. That’s what makes them one of my most requested holiday recipes—and why I always make a double batch.
Christmas Appetizer Bites
Ingredients
- 2 boxes mini phyllo shells 30 total
- 8 ounces reduced fat cream cheese
- ½ cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
- ½ cup prepared pesto I recommend DeLallo
- ½ cup diced olive-oil packed sundried tomatoes patted dry
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Remove the phyllo shells from their box and place them on the counter, keeping the shells in their protective tray until ready to use.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth.
- Mix in the pesto until evenly combined.
- Then on low speed, add 2/3 of the sundried tomatoes and Parmesan and beat just until blended.
- Pipe or dollop the pesto filling into each phyllo shell, then transfer to a serving plate. Top with the remaining sundried tomatoes and chopped parsley or basil. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to four hours.
Notes
TO STORE: Assembled Christmas appetizer bites are best eaten within a few hours of assembling. They may be stored in the fridge for up to two days however the phyllo shells will lose their crispness.
MAKE AHEAD: The filling for these Christmas appetizer bites may be made up to two days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge before filling the phyllo cups. Stir the filling before piping if the ingredients have separated. Nutrition
Serving: 1(of 30)
Calories: 67kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 8mg
Potassium: 57mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Vitamin A: 183IU
Vitamin C: 2mg
Calcium: 66mg
Iron: 1mg
Ingredients and How to Prepare Them
Simple ingredients, festive flavors
The best holiday appetizers start with simple, reliable ingredients that taste great together. These Christmas appetizer bites rely on pantry staples and a few fresh touches. You’ll need just seven ingredients total, and there’s room to customize if you want.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mini phyllo shells (2 boxes for 30 total): These are ready to use straight from the freezer, no baking needed unless you want extra crunch.
- Reduced-fat cream cheese: Softened to blend easily, it creates the creamy base.
- Plain non-fat Greek yogurt: This lightens the filling and adds a subtle tang.
- Prepared pesto: Adds rich, herby flavor and gives the filling a festive green color.
- Sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil: Drained and diced for savory pops of flavor and a touch of red.
- Freshly grated Parmesan: Salty, sharp, and perfect for balancing the creaminess.
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil: Adds brightness and a pop of color.
If you want extra crunch, place the phyllo shells on a baking sheet and crisp them in the oven at 350°F for 8 minutes, then let them cool. This step is optional but adds texture.
Quick prep, no cooking required
Start by blending the cream cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth. Use a hand mixer for speed. Then stir in the pesto, followed by ⅔ of the sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese. Save the remaining tomatoes for topping.
Once your filling is ready, either pipe it in using a plastic sandwich bag or spoon it into the shells. The filling is soft and rich but holds its shape well.
Each cup should be filled to the top, but not overflowing. Finish by garnishing with the remaining sun-dried tomatoes and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. That’s it simple, fast, and festive.
Assembly, Serving Tips, and Presentation
Assembling appetizer bites that impress in minutes
Once your filling is mixed and the shells are ready, the fun begins. These Christmas appetizer bites are all about presentation. Their festive colors green from the pesto and red from the tomatoes make them perfect for any holiday platter.
If you’re short on time, spooning the filling into the shells works fine. But for a cleaner look, use a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off. This helps keep the edges tidy and gives a professional finish that’s party-worthy.
Place each phyllo shell on your serving tray before filling. This prevents the bottoms from getting soggy during transfer. Once filled, top each with a few pieces of the reserved sun-dried tomatoes and a light sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil. The herbs brighten the flavor and give the tray a fresh finish.
Serve cold or warmed slightly both work beautifully
These bites are excellent served straight from the fridge. If you want a little warmth, you can bake the filled shells for 5 minutes at 325°F. This softens the cheese slightly and intensifies the pesto aroma.
Either way, arrange them on a white platter or festive tray. Grouping them in circles or lines adds a clean, appealing look. They also look great on a wooden board surrounded by rosemary sprigs or scattered cranberries for a seasonal touch.
If you’re bringing them to a party, transport the filling separately in a sealed bag or container, then fill the shells just before serving. This keeps the phyllo crisp and the presentation fresh.
These small bites are rich, so one or two per person goes a long way. But they disappear quickly, so make a few extras if you’re hosting a crowd.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Get ahead of the holiday rush with smart prep
Planning ahead is key to surviving holiday cooking without stress. The good news is these Christmas appetizer bites are easy to prep in stages.
The creamy pesto filling can be made up to two days in advance. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. Stir it before using, since the ingredients may settle slightly over time.
As for the phyllo shells, you have two options. Serve them straight from the package or bake them briefly for added crispness. If you choose to bake, arrange them on a baking sheet and cook at 350°F for 8 minutes, then let them cool completely before filling.
Filled cups should be served within four hours. While they can last longer in the fridge, the shells will start to soften. If you’re preparing them for a party, it’s best to assemble them just before serving.
Transporting them? Bring the filling in a sealed bag and fill the shells on-site. It takes only minutes and keeps everything fresh and crisp.
COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT CHRISTMAS APPETIZER BITES
Can I make these Christmas appetizer bites ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the filling two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the phyllo cups shortly before serving. This keeps the texture fresh and avoids soggy bottoms. For busy hosts, this recipe is a stress-saver. It’s quick, requires no cooking if you skip baking the shells, and still feels like something special.
How do I keep phyllo cups from getting soggy?
The key is baking the shells first. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 8 minutes. Let them cool fully before filling. Also, avoid overfilling the cups or letting them sit too long in the fridge. For best results, serve within a few hours of assembly. If crispness is critical, store the filling and shells separately and fill them just before guests arrive.
Can I use full-fat cream cheese or regular yogurt?
Yes, both full-fat cream cheese and regular yogurt work just fine. The result will be a richer, creamier filling. Many cooks even prefer the extra flavor and body that comes from full-fat versions. This recipe is very forgiving, so you can swap based on what you have in your fridge.
What are some other toppings I can use?
If you want to change things up, try crumbled cooked bacon, finely chopped roasted red peppers, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Crushed pistachios also work well for color and crunch. Just remember not to overload the tops. A light garnish adds elegance without overpowering the creamy, herby base.
Conclusion
These Christmas appetizer bites check every holiday box. They’re festive, easy to make, and disappear faster than anything else on the tray. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or bringing a dish to share, these creamy, crunchy phyllo cups are a sure win.
You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen. Just a few smart steps, and you’ll have a holiday appetizer that looks stunning and tastes even better. With the ability to make the filling ahead and assemble just before serving, this recipe brings you one step closer to a relaxed and delicious celebration.
Give them a try this season and don’t be surprised if guests ask you for the recipe before the night is over.
