Finger foods are perfect for parties and get-togethers. They’re easy to eat and don’t require utensils.
You can serve them at any event, from casual backyard barbecues to fancy cocktail parties.
These 31+ finger food recipes will give you lots of tasty options to choose from.
You’ll find appetizers that are quick to make and sure to please your guests. The recipes use simple ingredients but have creative twists to make them special.
Whether you want savory bites or sweet treats, there’s something for every taste.
1. Spicy Buffalo Chicken Wings
Buffalo wings are a classic finger food. To make them, coat chicken wings in a mix of vinegar and spices.
Bake the wings until they’re crispy.
For the sauce, combine hot sauce and melted butter. Toss the cooked wings in this spicy mixture.
Serve your buffalo wings hot with celery sticks on the side. Add blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.
These wings are perfect for parties or game day snacks. You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste. For extra heat, add more hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
2. Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Caprese skewers are a tasty finger food that’s easy to make. You’ll need cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves.
Thread these ingredients onto small skewers, alternating them for a colorful look. The balsamic glaze adds a tangy finish.
To make the glaze, simmer balsamic vinegar in a pan until it thickens. This takes about 15 minutes. You can also buy pre-made glaze to save time.
Drizzle the glaze over your skewers just before serving.
These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties or as a light snack.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms with Cream Cheese
Stuffed mushrooms make a tasty finger food for parties. To make them, start with large cremini or white button mushrooms. Remove the stems and chop them finely.
Mix the chopped stems with cream cheese, garlic, onion, and breadcrumbs. Add some Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Spoon this mixture into the mushroom caps.
Bake the stuffed mushrooms at 375°F for 20-30 minutes. They’re done when the tops are golden brown. The creamy filling will be warm and melty inside the tender mushroom.
You can customize the filling with bacon, cheddar, or herbs.
Stuffed mushrooms are easy to make ahead and reheat before serving. Your guests will love these bite-sized treats.
4. Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeno Poppers
Bacon-wrapped jalapeno poppers are a tasty finger food that will spice up any gathering. To make them, start by cutting jalapenos in half and removing the seeds.
Fill each jalapeno half with cream cheese. Wrap a piece of bacon around each stuffed pepper. You can secure the bacon with toothpicks if needed.
Bake the poppers until the bacon is crispy and the peppers are tender. Serve them hot with a side of ranch dip or sour cream to cool the heat.
These poppers are easy to prep ahead of time. You can stuff and wrap them earlier, then pop them in the oven right before guests arrive.
5. Mini Quiche Lorraine Bites
Mini Quiche Lorraine Bites are perfect finger foods for parties and gatherings. These small tarts feature a flaky crust filled with a savory egg custard, crispy bacon, and melted Swiss cheese.
To make them, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Use store-bought pie crusts for convenience and press them into mini muffin tins.
Whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and whole milk for the custard base. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper for seasoning.
Sprinkle cooked bacon bits and shredded Swiss cheese into each tart shell before pouring in the egg mixture.
Bake the mini quiches until golden brown and set. Serve them warm or at room temperature for a delicious appetizer your guests will love.
6. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Garlic Parmesan chicken tenders are a tasty finger food option. You can make them with chicken tenderloins, buttermilk, and spices like garlic powder and paprika.
To prepare, coat the chicken in a mixture of eggs and buttermilk. Then dredge it in seasoned breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese.
You can bake the tenders in the oven for about 20-25 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even cooking. For a crispier result, you might fry them in oil instead.
These chicken tenders are juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. They’re perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce.
7. Honey BBQ Meatballs
Honey BBQ meatballs are a tasty finger food for parties and gatherings. You can make them easily in a crockpot for hands-off cooking.
Mix BBQ sauce, honey, and grape jelly for a sweet and tangy sauce. Pour it over frozen meatballs in the slow cooker.
Cook on high for 1 hour or low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
These meatballs work well as an appetizer or main dish. Serve them with toothpicks for easy eating.
You can also use them in meatball subs or on top of baked potatoes for a hearty meal.
For extra flavor, add some chili flakes to the sauce. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving for a pop of color.
8. Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Bread
Spinach artichoke stuffed bread is a tasty finger food that combines two popular items – dip and bread. You can make it using pizza dough as the base.
To create the filling, mix cream cheese, sour cream, spinach, and artichokes. Some recipes add garlic for extra flavor. Spread this mixture onto the dough.
Roll up the dough to seal the filling inside. Place it on a baking sheet with the seam side down.
Brush the top with olive oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds if you like.
Bake until the bread is golden brown. Let it cool slightly before slicing. This stuffed bread is great for parties or as an appetizer.
9. Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon Slices
Prosciutto-wrapped melon slices are a tasty finger food for parties. You’ll need ripe cantaloupe and thinly sliced prosciutto to make them.
Cut the melon into bite-sized pieces. Wrap each piece with a strip of prosciutto. The salty meat pairs well with the sweet fruit.
These appetizers are quick to prepare. You can make them in under 10 minutes. They’re perfect for summer gatherings or weddings.
For extra flavor, drizzle the slices with honey or balsamic glaze. You can also add fresh basil or mint leaves for a nice touch.
Serve the wrapped melon pieces on a platter. Your guests will enjoy the mix of sweet and savory flavors in each bite.
10. Avocado Deviled Eggs
Avocado deviled eggs are a tasty twist on a classic finger food. You’ll love these creamy, flavorful bites at your next party or gathering.
To make them, start by hard-boiling eggs and carefully removing the yolks.
Mash the yolks with ripe avocado, mayonnaise, mustard, and seasonings.
Add finely minced onion and celery for extra crunch and flavor. Mix everything well until smooth and creamy.
Fill the egg white halves with your avocado mixture. Use a piping bag for a fancier look, or simply spoon it in.
These healthier deviled eggs are packed with good fats from the avocado. They’re easy to make ahead and perfect for any occasion.
11. Sweet and Sour Cocktail Sausages
Sweet and sour cocktail sausages are a tasty finger food for parties. You can make them easily in a crockpot for hands-off cooking.
Mix BBQ sauce, honey, and grape jelly for a sweet and tangy sauce. Pour it over frozen meatballs in the slow cooker.
Cook on high for 1 hour or low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
These meatballs work well as an appetizer or main dish. Serve them with toothpicks for easy eating.
You can also use them in meatball subs or on top of baked potatoes for a hearty meal.
For extra flavor, add some chili flakes to the sauce. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving for a pop of color.
12. Cheese-Stuffed Peppers
Cheese-stuffed peppers are a tasty finger food you can make easily. Start with mini sweet bell peppers for bite-sized treats. Cut them in half and remove the seeds.
Mix cream cheese with shredded cheddar for the filling. Add some herbs or spices for extra flavor. Spoon the cheese mixture into each pepper half.
You can serve these peppers raw for a cool snack. Or bake them for 10-15 minutes until the peppers soften and the cheese melts. They’re good hot or cold.
These stuffed peppers are perfect for parties. You can prep them ahead of time and pop them in the oven when guests arrive. They’re colorful, low-carb, and sure to be a hit.
13. Crispy Coconut Shrimp
Crispy coconut shrimp is a tasty finger food that’s sure to please. To make it, you’ll need shrimp, coconut flakes, and breadcrumbs.
Start by peeling the shrimp, leaving the tails on. Dip them in flour, then egg, and finally a mix of coconut and breadcrumbs.
Fry the coated shrimp in hot oil for about 3 minutes until golden brown. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan.
Once cooked, place the shrimp on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve them hot with sweet chili sauce or spicy mayo for dipping.
You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep them crispy.
14. Mango Salsa with Tortilla Chips
Mango salsa with tortilla chips is a tasty finger food that’s perfect for parties. To make the salsa, mix diced mango, tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro in a bowl.
Add some jalapeño for heat and lime juice for tang. Season with salt and a dash of chili powder to taste. Let the flavors meld for about 15 minutes before serving.
For homemade tortilla chips, cut corn tortillas into triangles. Bake them in a 500°F oven until crispy. Serve the chips alongside your fresh mango salsa for a crowd-pleasing snack.
This colorful dish is not only delicious but also looks great on any table. The sweet mango pairs well with the salty chips, creating a balanced bite.
15. Mini Taco Cups
Mini taco cups are tasty bite-sized appetizers perfect for parties. You can make them using wonton wrappers or scoop-shaped tortilla chips as the base.
Fill the cups with seasoned ground beef, chicken, or beans. Top with cheese, lettuce, salsa, and sour cream.
To make wonton cup tacos, press wonton wrappers into a mini muffin tin and bake until crispy. Then add your fillings.
For tortilla scoop tacos, arrange the chips on a baking sheet and fill with taco meat and cheese. Bake until hot and melty.
These fun finger foods are great for kids and adults alike. Guests can customize their own mini tacos with various toppings.
16. Herb-Crusted Mozzarella Sticks
Herb-crusted mozzarella sticks are a tasty twist on a classic finger food. You can make them at home with just a few ingredients.
Start by cutting mozzarella cheese into sticks. Coat them in flour, then dip in beaten egg. Roll the sticks in a mixture of breadcrumbs and dried herbs like basil, parsley, and thyme.
Freeze the coated sticks for about 2 hours. This helps them hold their shape when cooking.
You can fry them in oil for 2-3 minutes or bake them at 400°F for 10-12 minutes.
Serve your herb-crusted mozzarella sticks hot with marinara sauce for dipping. They make a great appetizer for parties or a fun snack.
17. Crispy Potato Skins
Potato skins are a classic finger food that’s easy to make and always a hit.
Start by baking potatoes until tender, then scoop out most of the insides. Brush the skins with oil and bake again until crispy.
Top with cheese, bacon bits, and green onions. Pop them back in the oven to melt the cheese. Serve these crispy bites hot with sour cream for dipping.
They’re perfect for parties or game day snacks. You can customize the toppings to suit your taste. For extra crunch, try sprinkling the skins with seasoned salt before the second bake. Your guests will love these tasty potato treats.
18. Zesty Lemon Pepper Wings
Zesty lemon pepper wings are a tasty finger food that’s perfect for parties or game nights.
You can make these wings in the oven or air fryer for crispy results. To prepare, toss chicken wings with olive oil and lemon pepper seasoning. Make sure each wing is evenly coated. This helps create a crispy exterior.
For extra flavor, add some fresh lemon zest and juice to your seasoning mix. Garlic powder can also enhance the taste. Cook the wings until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce. These tangy, peppery wings are sure to be a hit with your guests.
19. Pork and Herb Sausage Rolls
Pork and herb sausage rolls are a tasty finger food perfect for parties. To make them, start by taking puff pastry out of the fridge 20 minutes before you begin. Preheat your oven and line two baking trays with parchment paper.
Mix quality sausage meat with fresh herbs and a touch of paprika for extra flavor. Roll out the pastry and place the sausage mixture along one edge. Carefully fold the pastry over to cover the meat, then gently crimp the edges with a fork.
Brush the rolls with beaten egg and chill for 30 minutes. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked through.
20. Smoked Salmon Canapés
Smoked salmon canapés are an easy yet elegant finger food for your next party.
Start with thin slices of baguette or crackers as the base. Spread a layer of cream cheese on each slice. Top the cream cheese with a small piece of smoked salmon.
For extra flavor, add some capers, fresh dill, or a squeeze of lemon juice. These bite-sized treats come together in minutes.
You can make them ahead of time and keep them chilled until guests arrive. Smoked salmon canapés work well for both casual gatherings and fancy events.
21. Panko-Crusted Tilapia Bites
Panko-crusted tilapia bites make a tasty finger food.
You’ll need tilapia fillets, flour, eggs, and panko breadcrumbs. Cut the fillets into bite-sized pieces.
Coat each piece in flour, then dip in beaten egg. Roll in panko crumbs seasoned with garlic powder and lemon juice. Arrange the coated bites on a baking sheet.
Bake at 400°F for 10-12 minutes until golden and flaky. Serve hot with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce. These crispy bites are perfect for parties or as a light meal. The panko coating gives a satisfying crunch, while the tilapia stays tender inside.
22. Ginger Soy Chicken Drumettes
Ginger soy chicken drumettes are a tasty finger food option.
To make them, mix soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic to create a flavorful marinade. Coat the drumettes in the mixture and let them sit for at least 4 hours. This allows the flavors to soak into the meat.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Place the marinated drumettes in a roasting pan and pour any extra marinade over them.
Bake for about 30 minutes, turning halfway through. The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through when done. Serve these savory-sweet drumettes hot as an appetizer or party snack. They’re sure to be a hit with your guests.
23. Cranberry Brie Bites
Cranberry Brie Bites are tasty finger foods perfect for parties. You’ll need puff pastry, brie cheese, and cranberry sauce.
To make them, preheat your oven to 400°F. Cut the puff pastry into small squares and place each in a mini muffin tin.
Add a small piece of brie and a dollop of cranberry sauce to each pastry cup. Bake for about 15 minutes until the pastry is golden brown. These bites mix sweet and savory flavors.
The creamy brie melts nicely with the tart cranberry sauce. Your guests will love these easy-to-eat appetizers at holiday gatherings or any special event.
24. Mediterranean Hummus Platter
A Mediterranean hummus platter is a tasty finger food option for parties. You can create a colorful spread with store-bought or homemade hummus as the centerpiece.
Surround the hummus with a variety of dipping options. Try pita chips, sliced baguette, or warm mini naan bread. Add raw veggies like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and snap peas.
Include other Mediterranean favorites to round out the platter. Olives, feta cheese, and tzatziki are great choices. You can also add some stuffed grape leaves or falafel.
This versatile platter lets guests mix and match flavors. It’s an easy way to serve a crowd and accommodate different tastes.
25. Caprese Salad Cups
Caprese salad cups are a fun twist on the classic Italian dish. These bite-sized appetizers are perfect for parties and gatherings.
To make them, start with small cups or shot glasses. Layer cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves inside.
Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze for extra flavor. You can also add a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. These cups are easy to assemble and can be made ahead of time.
They’re great for self-serve buffets or passed appetizers. Your guests will love the fresh flavors and cute presentation of these mini Caprese salads.
26. Teriyaki Beef Skewers
Teriyaki beef skewers are a tasty finger food option for your next gathering. You’ll need thin strips of flank steak and wooden skewers for this recipe.
To make the teriyaki sauce, mix soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, mirin, honey, ginger, and garlic. Marinate the beef in this mixture to add flavor and tenderness.
Thread the marinated beef onto soaked wooden skewers. You can grill them outdoors or cook them in the oven.
Grill or bake the skewers until the beef reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. This usually takes 10-13 minutes. Serve your teriyaki beef skewers hot and enjoy the sweet, salty, and tangy flavors.
27. Baked Zucchini Fries
Baked zucchini fries are a tasty and healthier alternative to regular fries. To make them, cut zucchini into thin sticks about 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick.
Coat the zucchini sticks in flour, then dip them in beaten egg. Roll them in a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Place the coated zucchini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy.
These fries are best served hot and can be paired with your favorite dipping sauce. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer and reheat them in the oven for best results.
28. Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Thai chicken lettuce wraps are a tasty finger food option. You can make them quickly for a weeknight meal or appetizer.
To prepare, cook ground chicken with garlic, ginger, and onions. Add Thai-inspired flavors like lime juice, tamari, and chili.
Spoon the chicken mixture into crisp lettuce leaves. Top with fresh ingredients like mango chunks and chopped cashews for extra crunch.
These wraps offer a mix of tender chicken, crispy lettuce, and bold flavors. The combination of sweet, spicy, and savory tastes will delight your guests.
Serve the components separately so everyone can build their own wraps. This makes for a fun, interactive eating experience.
29. Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Buffalo cauliflower bites are a tasty vegetarian twist on classic buffalo wings. They make a great finger food for parties or snacking.
To make them, cut cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Coat the pieces in a simple batter of flour, milk, and spices.
Bake the coated cauliflower until crispy. Then toss the bites in spicy buffalo sauce. Serve your buffalo cauliflower bites right away with celery sticks and blue cheese or ranch dip.
The crispy outside and tender inside create a satisfying texture. These bites deliver the zesty buffalo flavor you crave in a lighter, veggie-based package. They’re perfect for game day or any casual get-together.
30. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Tips
Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a tasty finger food that’s easy to make. You’ll need fresh asparagus spears and bacon strips.
Wash and trim the asparagus. Cut bacon strips in half. Wrap each asparagus spear with half a bacon strip.
Place the wrapped spears on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until the bacon is crispy.
For added flavor, brush with maple syrup before baking. You can also sprinkle with salt and pepper. Make these up to 24 hours ahead. Store in the fridge covered with plastic wrap until ready to cook.
31. Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
Garlic butter shrimp skewers are a tasty finger food for parties. You can make them in just 15 minutes.
Start by mixing melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Coat the shrimp in this mixture and let them sit for 5 minutes.
Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers. Grill them until they turn pink and slightly charred. You can also cook them on a griddle or in the oven.
These skewers work great as an appetizer or main dish. Serve them with rice or pasta for a full meal. The garlic butter flavor is rich and satisfying.
Presentation Techniques
Use small plates or skewers to serve finger foods. This makes them easy to grab and eat.
Arrange items in neat rows or fun shapes on platters. Try colorful garnishes like herb sprigs or edible flowers to make foods look pretty.
Group similar items together. Put hot foods in one area and cold in another.
Label dishes so guests know what they’re eating. Use different heights to create visual interest. Stack plates or use cake stands to add levels.
Keep messy foods contained. Serve dips in small cups or hollow vegetables.
Use toothpicks or cocktail forks for saucy items. Have napkins nearby for easy cleanup.
Balancing Flavors and Textures
Mix up flavors and textures for variety. Pair crunchy with creamy, like crisp veggies and smooth dips.
Combine sweet and salty tastes, such as prosciutto-wrapped melon. Add tang with pickled items or citrus.
Include options for different diets. Offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices.
Make sure to have some mild foods along with spicy ones. Provide both light bites and more filling options.
Think about temperature. Serve some foods hot, some cold, and some at room temp.
This gives guests choices and keeps food safe. Have a mix of raw and cooked items for contrast.
Keep flavors balanced. Don’t use too many strong tastes at once. Let one or two flavors shine in each dish.
Common Ingredients In Finger Foods
Finger foods often use versatile ingredients that are easy to prepare and eat. Many recipes can be adapted for different tastes and dietary needs.
Popular Seasonal Ingredients
Spring and summer finger foods often feature fresh produce. Try cucumber rounds topped with herbed cream cheese.
Cherry tomatoes stuffed with mozzarella and basil are another warm-weather favorite.
For fall, serve mini pumpkin pies or apple cider donuts. Winter calls for heartier bites like bacon-wrapped dates or cheesy potato croquettes.
Year-round staples include cheese, crackers, and cured meats. These items are great for quick appetizer platters.
Nuts, olives, and dried fruits also work well in many finger food recipes.
Substitutes For Common Allergens
For gluten-free options, use rice crackers or vegetable slices instead of bread.
Corn tortillas make good substitutes for wheat-based wraps.
Replace dairy with non-dairy alternatives like cashew cheese or coconut yogurt. These work well in dips and spreads.
For nut allergies, try seeds like pumpkin or sunflower. They add crunch to recipes that usually call for nuts.
Egg-free binders include mashed banana or ground flaxseed mixed with water.
These help hold ingredients together in items like meatballs or veggie patties.