Holiday plans sometimes overlap, and 47 Christmas party food ideas fit well into those on-the-go days. Getting food from one gathering to another is less stressful if you start with portable options. Passing around convenient dishes lets everyone participate, whether at home or somewhere new. Offering flexible recipes keeps things simple for both sharing and serving.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispies
Bite-sized treats bring instant joy as this Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispies fills travel-friendly trays for holiday parties. The chewy, chocolaty crunch holds up well on bumpy roads and chilly car rides. I pack these for holiday gatherings since everyone asks for extras. There’s always someone who sneaks a second piece before unloading the car.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Krispies
Juicy Cheeseburger Sliders
Sliding these Juicy Cheeseburger Sliders onto a tray means you’re ready for fun wherever the celebration heads. Mini burgers carry all the flavor and none of the mess, making them great for group car rides or cozy potlucks. I keep sauces close because people love customizing. Smiles light up as friends lean in for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Juicy Cheeseburger Sliders
Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make
Nostalgia fills the air as big bowls of this Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make join the buffet at friends’ houses. Crisp texture and sweet bites stay fresh, even after a trip across town. I’ve discovered this salad travels well and never needs last-minute fixing. People chat about memories as soon as they spot this old-school favorite.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad Your Mom Used to Make
Gingerbread Cupcakes
Sprinkles and gingerbread aroma make these Gingerbread Cupcakes a hit at any December stop. Soft cake and cheerful frosting travel safely in cupcake carriers for effortless snacking on the go. I deliver these to parties where a festive dessert is needed without fuss. Questions about the recipe follow each bite into holiday cheer.
Get the Recipe: Gingerbread Cupcakes
Crispy Crab Rangoon
Portable appetizers like this Crispy Crab Rangoon are perfect for busy December evenings full of events. The crunchy shell and creamy filling shine after any journey from kitchen to party. I bring extra for unexpected guests at office gatherings or neighborhood drop-ins. Crunches echo around the room as everyone digs in fast.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Crab Rangoon
Crack Chicken Dip
No December party spread feels complete without this Crack Chicken Dip bubbling on the table. Warm, creamy dips carry well in a travel dish, keeping flavors bold until the crowd has gathered. I serve it with sturdy chips for dunking on the road. The biggest challenge is making enough for the ride back.
Get the Recipe: Crack Chicken Dip
Chess Pie
Classic flavors never get old, so I wrap up this Chess Pie for sharing at every party along the way. The soft, sugary filling stays perfect after a trip during holiday travels. I slice our portions ahead and trust each piece will arrive just right. Shouts for seconds fill the kitchen once folks spot what you’ve brought.
Get the Recipe: Chess Pie
Classic Shrimp Cocktail
Chilled, ready-to-eat bites make this Classic Shrimp Cocktail an ideal pick for moving between destinations. Piled high on ice, the shrimp and sauce hold up for hours, staying crisp through holiday traffic. I use sturdy containers so nothing spills on the way. Guests light up as soon as the tray opens.
Get the Recipe: Classic Shrimp Cocktail
Fresh Guacamole
Road trips get brighter with bowls of this Fresh Guacamole waiting under the festive party lights. Creamy and green, it pairs well with chips or veggies and bounces back from a little jostle in the car. I keep it chilled for picnics on the go or snack breaks at winter open houses. Everyone gets eager for that first scoop.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Guacamole
Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies
Brighten dessert tables with these Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies stacked inside tins or on portable trays. Decorated trees travel well and stay cheery, ready to share at every holiday stop. I make a batch for cookie swaps where decorating is half the fun. People pause to pick their favorite before nibbling off a branch.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies
Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham
Warm trays of this Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham bring sweet, savory comfort along every holiday route. Slices serve perfectly cold or reheated, traveling easily between December potlucks. I always bring extra rolls so no one misses a sandwich. Friends hover nearby, waiting to ask for more the moment you arrive.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Brown Sugar and Pineapple Ham
Creamy Queso Dip
Gouda gatherings twice as much fun thanks to this Creamy Queso Dip that packs up easily in sealed containers. Once you reach the party, the cheese stays smooth and scoopable, even after a winter drive. I serve plenty of dippers, making stops feel special. People gather around the bowl, sneaking spoonfuls before the meal officially begins.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Queso Dip
Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes
Cupcakes stuffed with creamy filling score big at every stop when you carry these Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes in festive holders. Each bite delivers both dessert and conversation on the go. I tuck in extras for hosts along the journey. Kids at every table point to the shiny chocolate topping before reaching for their favorite.
Get the Recipe: Boston Cream Pie Cupcakes
Fried Dill Pickle Dip
Crunchy, tangy bites kick off every December bash thanks to this Fried Dill Pickle Dip on travel trays. The creamy dip holds its shape and flavor all party long, making it a reliable go-to for trips across town. I bring extra crackers for everyone eager to try something new. Curiosity grows as soon as the cover lifts off the bowl.
Get the Recipe: Fried Dill Pickle Dip
Loaded Potato Skins
Tailgating or potlucks get an upgrade when you show up with pans of these Loaded Potato Skins. With a crisp exterior that lasts through travel, each piece is easy to reheat or serve at room temperature. I pack them in foil for maximum crunch. Platefuls disappear as hands grab another before moving on to dessert.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Potato Skins
Adorable Reindeer Cake Pops
Show-stopping treats meet practicality in this Adorable Reindeer Cake Pops held upright in jars or foam on holiday car rides. Each pop is cheerful, easy to share, and guaranteed not to crumble in transit. I love gifting these because everyone grins at their cute faces. Every bite comes with a little winter magic.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Reindeer Cake Pops
Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls
Little bites of comfort arrive at every party with these Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls warm from travel. Flaky pockets travel wrapped for on-the-go snacking, keeping fillings tasty and tender. I notice friends reach for these first, no matter the event. Plates empty before any official announcements begin.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls
Million Dollar Deviled Eggs
Chilly weather outings need sturdy snacks like this Million Dollar Deviled Eggs with fillings that don’t spill during the drive. The eggs stack neatly in trays and get even better after a short chill. I often pack these for get-togethers because they vanish almost instantly. Questions pop up about what makes them extra creamy.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Deviled Eggs
Boozy Eggnog Pudding Shots
Festivities on the move get a boost with these Boozy Eggnog Pudding Shots in handy single-serve cups. These treats arrive ready to pass out, no matter where your holiday plans take you. I bring a cooler just for these since they’re always a hit with adults. Laughter and quick toasts fill the room the moment they’re served.
Get the Recipe: Boozy Eggnog Pudding Shots
Classic Deviled Eggs
Cool trays stacked with these Classic Deviled Eggs bring a taste of tradition to every mobile holiday celebration. Firm enough to stay in shape, these eggs show up at potlucks looking as fresh as they did at home. I use a covered carrier, making sure nothing slides out of place. Conversations soon turn to egg swaps and favorite memories.
Get the Recipe: Classic Deviled Eggs
Savory Sausage Balls
Events feel more festive with trays of these Savory Sausage Balls baked fresh, piled high, and sealed for a quick trip. Each bite lands on plates looking just as inviting as when they left the oven. I pack napkins for easy passing as people rush to the appetizer table. Seconds go fast at every location where these show up.
Get the Recipe: Savory Sausage Balls
Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake
Plates empty quickly once you reveal this Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake with its caramelized top, safe in a springform pan after a drive. Layers stay smooth, making it a hit from first stop to last. I set aside a few slices for hosts who miss dessert during the fun. Guests always ask about the dessert’s secret creamy finish.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake
Chicken Cutlets
Finger foods go far when you carry these Chicken Cutlets to December get-togethers. Breaded chicken pieces keep crisp in containers and stack well for traveling. I include lots of dipping sauces because everyone has a favorite. Friends agree that big trays of cutlets make party meals easier.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cutlets
Crispy Shrimp Toast
Crunchy, savory bites bring flavor in every location thanks to this Crispy Shrimp Toast on the holiday travel menu. Pieces stay golden and fresh after a trip, making them perfect for potlucks. I like serving these at open houses since they spark lots of curiosity. Guests line up, hoping there’s enough for another helping.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Shrimp Toast
Christmas Donut Wreath
Colorful and fun, this Christmas Donut Wreath arrives ready to place on the center of any holiday table. Minis and icing travel well in round trays for mess-free sharing. I bring these as an edible centerpiece for every stop in December. Everyone lights up at the sight before grabbing a donut for dessert.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Donut Wreath
Spicy Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel
Spirals of cheesy heat keep things lively in this Spicy Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel recipe, always popular with those looking for something extra. Baked pinwheels keep their shape wrapped up for longer drives. I serve these at holiday game nights where bold flavors get attention. New fans always return for a second round.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel
Smoked Mackerel Pate
Spreadable snacks work great for potlucks, especially this Smoked Mackerel Pate carried in jars with crackers on the side. Smoky notes and creamy texture travel unnoticed among the bottles and bags. I give guests spoons for easy spreading and watch bowls empty quickly. The flavor sparks questions about new holiday traditions.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mackerel Pate
Homemade Chocolate Truffles
Boxes of these Homemade Chocolate Truffles become treasured gifts or show-stoppers on dessert trays en route. Each truffle keeps well while being carted from house to house. I stack them neatly with parchment so every ball stays perfect. People wonder if you’ve picked them up from a bakery because they’re so beautiful on arrival.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Chocolate Truffles
Black Bean Hummus
Holiday snacks gain a lighter option with this Black Bean Hummus in travel tubs tucked alongside fresh veggies. Smooth, earthy flavors stay thick and scoopable at buffets across town. I add pita chips for easy grabbing with no mess. Plates always clear out as friends discover a savory break from sweet treats.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Hummus
Spiral Italian Sub Pinwheels
Sandwiches take on a new life for travel as this Spiral Italian Sub Pinwheels gets rolled up tight and sliced for party trays. Swirls hold everything inside, letting people snack as they mingle without crumbs. I prefer stacking these high for big groups at outdoor meetups. Lively conversations follow as partygoers debate the best fillings.
Get the Recipe: Spiral Italian Sub Pinwheels
Crispy Candied Tanghulu
Glazed fruit sticks out among December treats thanks to this Crispy Candied Tanghulu wrapped up and ready to move. The hard shell keeps everything in place for mess-free sharing during travel. I hand these out to both adults and kids at outdoor festivities. Happy chatter fills the air while crunching into the sweet coating.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Candied Tanghulu
Savory Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Savory snacks travel in style as these Savory Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls fill up bowls and bento boxes. Each cheesy bite remains soft inside and golden outside after a ride to the next stop. I make sure to bring a double batch since friends ask for more every time. Appetizers get snatched up right away from every table.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls
Spiral Pizza Pinwheels
Flaky spirals make these Spiral Pizza Pinwheels easy to transport for December parties on the go. Saucy, cheesy layers hold up in containers and taste great warm or at room temperature. I offer several dipping options to keep it interesting. Smiles break out when the pizza pinwheels make an appearance wherever we land.
Get the Recipe: Spiral Pizza Pinwheels
Decadent Chocolate Hummus
Dips with a twist win curious crowds, so I bring this Decadent Chocolate Hummus for dessert platters in December. The smooth spread survives car rides with ease when sealed tight. I pack cookies and fresh fruit for dipping, knowing guests will talk about the creative treat. Dessert tables perk up as people sample something outside the usual picks.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Chocolate Hummus
Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Bite-sized sandwiches like these Buffalo Chicken Sliders pack punchy flavor and travel tightly wrapped to each gathering. Each slider stays together, making them great for passing around to hungry guests. I pile a tray high and watch them go in minutes. Fun stories always pair well with bold, spicy bites.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Smoky Bacon Pig Shots
Bacon-wrapped treats, such as these Smoky Bacon Pig Shots, hold their shape for any route to the party. Juicy centers snag attention and remain just as flavorful long after leaving the oven. I use mini toothpicks to keep hands clean while on the move. These snacks get cheers the moment the lid comes off the tray.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots
Boston Cream Pie
Decadent layers stay neat and photo-ready after transport with this Boston Cream Pie tucked in a travel dish. The balance of moist cake and creamy filling pleases every crowd. I sometimes sneak in an extra slice just for the road. Each serving guarantees someone will ask for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Boston Cream Pie
Loaded Million Dollar Dip
Hearty dips never disappoint on the December circuit, especially this Loaded Million Dollar Dip in insulated containers. Crusty bread or crackers fit in perfectly alongside for scooping anytime. I bring enough to share, knowing the bowl will be empty long before the party winds down. Groups gather, curious about every flavorful bite.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Million Dollar Dip
Crisp Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap
Crunch isn’t sacrificed when you travel with this Crisp Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap among your party picks. Wrapped tightly in foil, these salads turn into grab-and-go lunch bites that stay fresh. I slice them into pinwheels for shareable snacks. Plates get cleared quickly because no one wants to miss out.
Get the Recipe: Crisp Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap
Candy Cane Cookies
Baked holiday treats shine in this Candy Cane Cookies collection, traveling stacked with parchment to every stop. Each cookie keeps its stripes nicely, adding festive cheer to dessert tables wherever you go. I find these bring smiles to both kids and adults. Gift bags rarely make it all the way home when they are inside.
Get the Recipe: Candy Cane Cookies
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites
Portable snacks don’t get much better than this Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites for spicy, cheesy bites on the move. Their sturdy shape travels perfectly to friends’ houses or party halls. I often see guests grab one before coats come off. Most ask what makes these so special as soon as they finish the first batch.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites
Reindeer Mini Cheese Balls
Cute shapes help these Reindeer Mini Cheese Balls stand out in holiday lunchboxes and antipasto trays on long drives. Festive colors and convenient size make sharing simple at every destination. I tuck a few into small containers for easy passing during car rides. Laughter fills each room the minute these appear.
Get the Recipe: Reindeer Mini Cheese Balls
Oreo Balls
No-bake treats such as these Oreo Balls last through cross-town trips and long December days. Chocolate coating stays crisp, protecting the creamy center inside. I arrange them in rows for quick access at potlucks and open houses. Friends reach back for seconds faster than you’d expect.
Get the Recipe: Oreo Balls
Savory Grilled Steak Pinwheels
Grill flavor travels surprisingly well thanks to these Savory Grilled Steak Pinwheels packed tight for winter parties. The pinwheel shape keeps fillings in and mess out, letting folks enjoy every bite. I serve these at block parties, where guests stand and mingle. Comments about bold flavor and perfect size follow every single tray.
Get the Recipe: Savory Grilled Steak Pinwheels
Soft Pretzels
Warm, golden twists from this Soft Pretzels batch land quickly on the most popular table at every holiday stop. Soft dough stays chewy after a trip, making these perfect for movie nights or school parties in December. I prep plenty of mustard and cheese for dipping. Everyone seems thrilled to find that homemade pretzels are along for the ride.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pretzels
Elegant Salmon Deviled Eggs
Classy get-togethers need stylish bites, and these Elegant Salmon Deviled Eggs fits the bill without fuss. Each one looks pristine after a car ride and gets plenty of admiring glances. I layer these in travel containers before setting out for special occasions. Light conversation shifts to requests about how to make them look so good.
Get the Recipe: Elegant Salmon Deviled Eggs
Eggnog Pie
Cream pies for winter celebrations need to travel well, and this Eggnog Pie reaches its destination beautifully chilled. Smooth filling and a gentle spice remind everyone of Christmas in each bite. I pack it with ice packs for longer trips. Slices disappear as soon as dessert is announced.
Get the Recipe: Eggnog Pie
