Best Christmas party recipes

From canapés to drinks, these are our favourite Christmas party recipes.

The festive season is nearly here and it's time to get the party started. Whether you're preparing a casual get-together with family or planning an evening of drinks with friends, here are a few ideas for what canapés and drinks to serve.

Gravadlax on rye bread

While smoked salmon might not be everyone's cup of tea, seafood fans will absolutely love these Scandinavian-inspired bites. Ready in 10 minutes, this is also a quick canapé to make if you're struggling for time.

Parma Ham and butternut squash skewers

These elegant skewers, featuring melt-in-your-mouth Prosciutto di Parma and sweet butternut squash are bound to be a hit. The squash is seasoned with honey and chilli for a tasty flavour contrast and then paired with Manchego, Parma Ham and crispy sage.

Prosciutto di Parma/loveFOOD

Baked figs with halloumi, prosciutto and basil

The combination of sweet sticky figs, salty ham and gooey melted cheese is heavenly, especially when served warm straight from the oven. With just 15 minutes prep time, these are also super easy to make.

Devilled eggs

Surprise your guests with this creative take on a party food classic – devilled eggs. The retro canapé is filled with a rich and creamy tahini filling that's perfectly balanced with zingy lime juice. It's devilled eggs like you've never tried before.

Season/Chronicle Books

RAED MORE: Our best-ever Christmas recipes

Parma Ham palmiers

Incorporating salty Prosciutto di Parma and tangy sundried tomato paste, these savoury palmiers are perfect to serve with drinks. They're also easy to make, using ready-made puff pastry for ease.

Aubergine and halloumi wraps

Little vegetarian parcels of joy, the wraps combine slightly salty halloumi cheese with crispy roasted aubergine slices in a brilliant mouthful that's bound to be a crowd favourite.

Waitrose & Partners/loveFOOD

Apricot jam and stilton canapes

Quick and easy to make – you'll need just 15 minutes prep time – these tasty bites are bursting with flavour and are perfect for a festive get-together. 

Ham and stilton tartlets

Made with everyone's favourite festive cheese and ham, these tarts are perfectly moreish for a Christmas drinks party. You could make these up to 24 hours before serving and then reheat for 15 minutes if you're short on time.

Waitrose & Partners/loveFOOD

Rosemary and pomegranate fizz

This sparkling mocktail is a real party starter. You could also make an alcoholic version of this by swapping alcohol-free sparkling wine for the real deal.

Classic snowball

An old-school Christmas classic, this creamy festive drink deserves a comeback. Made with advocaat, a traditional Dutch alcoholic beverage that's reminiscent of eggnogg, the cocktail is made complete with a delicate mini meringue.

Warninks/loveFOOD

Festive grapefruit and blood orange cocktail

A perfectly sharp and refreshing cocktail to kickstart a party, this beautiful drink combines zesty lime, grapfruit and blood orange with vodka and frozen red currants – an excellent addition to your festive gathering.

READ MORE: Best Christmas baking and dessert recipes

Lead image: Prosciutto di Parma/loveFOOD