60 Holiday Snacks Made Easy for a Merry Season

The holiday season is a time of joy and togetherness, and what better way to enhance the festive spirit than with delicious, better-for-you, and well-curated holiday snacks? As hosts, we have the power to create a memorable experience for our guests through thoughtfully selected snacks for the holidays that tantalize taste buds and nourish the body.

From mouthwatering appetizers to guilt-free indulgences, these healthy holiday snacks become the heart of gatherings, fostering a sense of warmth and celebration. As we craft a menu of healthy holiday snacks, we weave a tapestry of flavors that ensure a season filled with joy and health.

Plus, people love being introduced to new ideas, especially when it comes to food and snacks. Most of us tend to have a regular rotation of snacks we stick to, and social gatherings are a great place to gather inspiration, whether for our home menus or to give as holiday stocking stuffers.

With the holidays coming up, it's important to prioritize healthy food options throughout the day to keep your blood sugar stable to prevent any mid-day energy crashes. Healthy holiday snacks present the perfect opportunity to make sure that you're including a variety of foods that provide a diverse mix of nutrients.

Plus, there's an opportunity to include something for everyone. From adults to kids, your guests will appreciate having healthy holiday snacks available that fit their own dietary preferences.

When it comes to putting together a holiday snack plate, focus on fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, and lean proteins. These will provide the perfect ratio of protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich carbohydrates to help keep you full and satisfied.

Holiday Snacks Everyone Will Love This Season

As you gear up for festive gatherings this year, one of the first things on your mind is probably what holiday-themed snacks you'd like to share. If your goal is to combine a variety of flavors, textures, colors, and aromas, this list is for you. Here are holiday snack ideas that are sure to please the crowd.

1. Spiced Nuts

As far as holiday snack ideas go, roasted nuts provide healthy fats and protein and are an easy holiday snack. For a festive blend, combine cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar to coat perfectly roasted nuts, offering a crunchy and flavorful snack for holiday gatherings.

2. CHOMPS Beef Sticks

CHOMPS Beef Meat Snacks such as the Jalapeno Beef Sticks or Italian Style Beef are a fun and nutritious way to add fun flavors and textures to a plate of healthy holiday treats. Studies have shown that consuming protein snacks can help with appetite control and overall satiety. [1]

3. Chomps Meat Sticks

Last but certainly not least are Chomps - on their own! Our meat sticks pair well with many things, but they also don't need anything to please a crowd. Simply spread a variety of flavors for guests to choose from, whether they're in the mood for Original Beef, Salt & Pepper Venison, or something with a little more spice, like Jalapeno Beef sticks.

4. Cheese and Charcuterie Board

Build a sophisticated array of cheeses, cured meats, crackers, olives, veggies, and fresh fruits, creating a visually stunning and palate-pleasing centerpiece for any festive occasion. Arrange some healthy holiday snacks on a decorative platter or wood chopping block. Need inspiration? See our post How to Make a Healthy Charcuterie Board.

5. Stuffed Mushrooms

For a savory bite-sized dish, stuff mushroom caps with a savory mix of herbs, breadcrumbs, and cheese to deliver an explosion of flavor. These holiday snacks could be made using larger portobello mushroom caps or a smaller variety, like white button mushrooms. For added protein and flavor, place a slice of Chomps Sea Salt Beef sticks in the middle.

6. CHOMPS Venison Meat Snacks

As far as balanced holiday treats go, Chomps Venison Sticks are the perfect 0g sugar meat option to serve. Since they're ready to eat, they're a convenient, nutritious, and mess-free addition to any snack plate. Just cut them into smaller, shareable pieces before serving!

7. Cranberry Brie Bites

Make mini pastry cups that cradle the creamy richness of brie and the tart sweetness of cranberry sauce. They're one of our favorite holiday snack ideas that combine to make for an elegant and delicious hors d'oeuvre.

8. Healthy Holiday Snack Mix

Whether for Thanksgiving or Christmas, you can always combine some healthier ingredients for grab-and-go holiday snacks. For instance, a mixture of nuts, pumpkin seeds, dark chocolate, pretzels, and dried fruit like raisins, mango, or pineapple.

9. Caprese Skewers

Bring this favorite simple salad to parties in a hand-held form. Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil come together on skewers, drizzled with balsamic glaze, creating a colorful and delectable appetizer.

10. Spinach Artichoke Dip

Make it creamy and cheesy, laden with spinach and artichokes, and serve with pita chips, slices of baguette, or a variety of sliced veggies. Whether you make it the  traditional way or a non-dairy version, it's an irresistible crowd-pleaser as far as holiday snacks go. Consider adding other veggies to the mix, like chopped asparagus or leeks.

11. Bruschetta

The perfect vehicle for flavorful, nutritious ingredients is this next item on our list of holiday snack ideas. Create Bruschetta using toasted bread generously topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil.

12. Deviled Eggs

Fill protein-packed hard-boiled eggs with a seasoned yolk mixture to make this next item on our list. Deviled eggs are both a classic and comforting, easy holiday snack.

13. Mini Quiches

These are delightful, bite-sized quiches with various healthy fillings such as spinach, broccoli, mushrooms, and cheese. As one of our favorite holiday snacks, they provide a miniature taste of savory perfection. You could even toss in some chopped Chomps Italian Style Beef sticks.

14. Fruit Kabobs

There's no wrong way to make these holiday-themed snacks! Use whatever you have on hand to create skewers laden with a rainbow of fresh, juicy fruits that offer a refreshing and healthy eating alternative amid the festive indulgence.

15. Stuffed Avocados

When you think of holiday snacks, avocados may not make the first list, but they're more versatile than you might think. Avocados are creamy and tasty on their own and offer a lovely vehicle for other flavors in their natural inner pocket. Serve these holiday snacks stuffed with cooked quinoa, diced mango, and Chomps Jalapeno Beef Sticks.

16. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries

Many argue that there's no better combination of holiday snack ideas than chocolate and berries. Try plump strawberries dipped in luscious melted chocolate, a sweet and elegant dessert option.

17. Vegetable Crudité Platter

The veggie platter always gets eaten when there are yummy dips involved. Make an arrangement of crisp, colorful vegetables with an assortment of healthy holiday snacks like hummus, ranch, guacamole, or queso.

18. Citrus Salsa

A citrus-centered take turns everyday salsa into a festive and bright dipping condiment that's perfect for holiday-themed snacks. You can use ingredients like diced mango, oranges, or pineapple along with avocado, cilantro, lime, scallions, and other seasonings of choice. Serve with tortilla chips.

19. Pigs in a Blanket

A holiday party isn't complete without these little piggies. You can make these holiday-themed snacks with mini sausages, Chomps Original Beef sticks, or vegan dogs for your plant-based friends. Simply wrap them in golden crescent roll dough, bake, and serve with honey mustard.

20. Caramelized Onion and Gruyere Tartlets

Create a delectable bite-sized snack with these mini tarts. They're holiday snacks to make that are filled with the sweet richness of caramelized onions and the savory depth of melted Gruyere cheese.

21. Hummus and Pita Chips

This is a classic and crowd-pleasing combination for both kids and adults of velvety hummus and crunchy pita chips. As far as holiday snacks go, they provide a satisfying and wholesome snack option. You might also include fresh veggies to dip or consider adding a twist to your dish, like making sweet potato, edamame, or beet hummus.

22. Cucumber Bites with Herbed Cream Cheese

Here's a light and refreshing alternative among holiday-themed snacks. Serve a plate of sliced cucumber discs topped with herbed cream cheese.

23. Air Fryer Veggie Chips

Pretty much everyone who has an air fryer is obsessed with it, so why not use it to your advantage and make holiday themed snacks? This is a great tool to make seasoned veggie chips out of things like thinly sliced potatoes, carrots, zucchini, or even kale.

24. Turkey Cranberry Pinwheels

These savory holiday snacks combine shaved turkey, Chomps Turkey sticks, and dairy-free cream cheese for a finger food that's perfect for holiday parties.

25. Holiday Protein Platter

Create a festive spread using Chomps variety packs alongside dried fruits and nuts. These holiday-themed snacks can keep energy levels steady during celebrations.

26. Festive Meat and Cheese Cups

Line mini phyllo cups with cream cheese, diced Chomps meat sticks, and cranberry sauce for bite-sized holiday snack ideas that combine sweet and savory flavors.

27. Rosemary Parmesan Popcorn

Toss freshly popped popcorn with melted butter, fresh rosemary, and grated parmesan to make one of the best aromatic holiday snack recipes. It's both simple and sophisticated.

28. Sweet Potato Crostini

Top roasted sweet potato rounds with goat cheese, honey, and pecans. You'll have some holiday-themed snacks that offer a healthier twist on traditional crostini.

29. Cranberry Pecan Energy Balls

Mix dried cranberries, chopped pecans, oats, and honey to create these energy bites. Since they don't need to be baked, they make for wonderful holiday-themed snacks.

30. Festive Greek Yogurt Bark

Spread Greek yogurt on a parchment-lined tray. Then, top with pistachios and pomegranate seeds, freeze, and break into pieces for a protein-infused treat.

31. Mini Christmas Wreath Salads

Arrange cucumber rounds in a circle, topped with herbed cream cheese and cherry tomatoes. You'll create simple holiday snack ideas that double as edible decorations.

32. Gingerbread Protein Bites

Combine dates, almonds, and protein powder with gingerbread spices. As one of the best holiday snacks on this list, these bites will satisfy sweet cravings.

33. Holiday Hummus Tree

Shape green herb-infused hummus into a Christmas tree. Decorate yours with vegetable toppings for holiday-themed snacks that make a stunning centerpiece.

34. Peppermint Dark Chocolate Bark

Swirl dark chocolate with crushed candy canes and nuts for holiday snack ideas that satisfy chocolate cravings.

35. Apple Cinnamon Chips

Thinly slice apples, dust with cinnamon sugar, and bake until crispy for these holiday-themed snacks.

36. Winter Spice Trail Mix

Combine nuts, seeds, dark chocolate, and dried fruit with warming spices for healthy holiday snacks that are perfect for winter.

37. Baked Brie with Honey and Nuts

Warm a wheel of brie in the oven until gooey, then top with a drizzle of honey, chopped nuts, and a sprinkle of dried cranberries for luxurious and shareable holiday snacks.

38. Sweet Potato Rounds with Toppings

Slice sweet potatoes into thick rounds, roast until tender, and top with creative options like guacamole, smoked salmon, or cranberry cream cheese for a healthy yet festive treat.

39. Pumpkin Spice Popcorn

Toss air-popped popcorn with a mix of pumpkin pie spices, a touch of coconut oil, and a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet and crunchy seasonal snack. Want extra crunch? Toss in some pecans or pepitas.

40. Antipasto Skewers

Thread olives, cherry tomatoes, marinated artichokes, mozzarella balls, and slices of Italian Style Beef sticks onto skewers for holiday snacks that are easy to grab and loaded with bold flavors.

41. Mini Pancake Stacks

Pancakes as holiday snacks? Yes, please! Use small pancakes stacked on toothpicks with layers of whipped cream, fresh berries, and a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet, whimsical addition to your spread. You could even use natural food coloring to make them red and green.

42. Holiday Energy Bites

Blend dates, oats, almond butter, cocoa powder, and a pinch of cinnamon, then roll into bite-sized balls for simple, flavorful holiday snack ideas. Roll them in shredded coconut or crushed peppermint candy (or candy canes) for extra holiday flair.

43. Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus

Wrap thin slices of prosciutto around asparagus spears and bake until crispy. As holiday snack ideas, they're elegant, savory, and simple to prepare. Don't have prosciutto? Try other deli meat or opt for a plant-based tofurkey alternative. You can even serve this with a side of mustard.

44. Chocolate Bark with Festive Toppings

Melt dark chocolate and spread it thinly on parchment paper. Sprinkle with dried fruit, crushed walnuts or pistachios, and a pinch of sea salt before allowing it to harden. Break your chocolate bark into pieces for easy holiday snacks that are as beautiful as they are delicious.

45. Fresh Vegetables

Fresh vegetables add color, crunch, and a mix of nutrients, which is a must-have for any healthy holiday snack plate. Plus, vegetables provide an additional source of fiber to support healthy digestion. Feel free to use any of your favorites, like carrots, cucumbers, celery, mini bell peppers, radishes. Most raw vegetables will work as healthy holiday snacks.

46. Fresh Fruits

Fresh fruits such as berries, kiwis, apples, and pears add crunch and sweetness as healthy holiday treats. Fruits also provide a source of fiber and studies have shown that higher-fiber intake has been linked to a lower risk for heart disease. [2]

47. Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds such as almonds, pistachios, cashews, and pumpkin seeds all provide a convenient source of healthy fats. The body uses them to support metabolism and brain health. As far as healthy holiday treats go, look for dry-roasted or raw nuts to keep the sodium and added oils to a minimum.

48. Dried Fruits

Dried fruits also work in addition to fresh fruits as a part of your plate of healthy holiday snacks! Dried mango, apples, freeze-dried berries, and bananas all provide the same nutrients as fresh fruit. Opt for dried fruits that do not contain any added sugars. For Whole30 compliant options, check ingredient labels carefully.

49. Grain-free Crackers and Chips

Plantain chips or almond flour crackers are both dairy and gluten-free options to share for healthy holiday snacks. Plantain chips should be made from just plantains, coconut oil, and sea salt. Opt for versions without added sugars to make sure that it's Whole30 compliant.

50. Dairy-free Dips

Dairy-free dips such as guacamole or cashew-based cheese dips are great compliments to your healthy holiday treats. They're an excellent pairing to go along with fresh vegetables and plantain chips.

Holiday Snack Recipes Made Easy

Want some healthy holiday snack recipes to help you create the perfect spread? Below are the items from our list above that have clear recipes to help you bring your festive gathering to life.

51. Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread

Transform your holiday appetizers with this festive, protein treat. Made with Chomps Original Beef Sticks, this pull-apart bread combines Italian herbs, melted cheese, and marinara sauce for a crowd-pleasing holiday snack recipe that's sure to impress.

52. "Bacon" Fig and Gruyere Grilled Cheese

Grilled cheese anyone? This elevated healthy holiday snack combines thinly sliced CHOMPS Original Beef stick with sweet figs and melted gruyere for an indulgent yet delicious protein snack. Another one of our top holiday snack ideas is this gourmet sandwich featuring caramelized Chomps meat sticks, sweet figs, and rich gruyere cheese. Perfect for sophisticated holiday gatherings or cozy winter afternoons.

53. CHOMPS Paleo Power Pancakes

Want some healthy holiday treats that can add some breakfast-inspired goodness? Made with Birchbender's Paleo mix and topped with chopped CHOMPS Sea Salt Beef stick, fresh berries, and pure maple syrup, these pancakes are a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. See the full pancake recipe.

54. Cauliflower Buffalo Bites

These spicy healthy holiday treats offer a low-carb alternative to traditional wings. Roasted until crispy and tossed in hot sauce, they're perfect for holiday gatherings.

55. Zucchini Pizza Boats

Here is another one of our favorite healthy holiday snacks that transform vegetables into mini pizzas. Top with marinara, herbs, and diced meats (we like our meat sticks, of course) for a yummy protein snack.

56. Sweet Potato Toast

Who doesn't love grain-free healthy holiday treats topped with avocado and seasonings? This versatile base can be customized with various toppings for a filling, nutrient-dense option.

57. Festive Vegetable Wraps

Create these colorful healthy holiday snacks using lettuce leaves filled with crisp vegetables and pieces of CHOMPS Whole30 Approved meat sticks for a fresh, crunchy option perfect for holiday parties.

58. Coconut Date Balls

These no-bake healthy holiday treats combine dates and coconut for a naturally sweet option that satisfies dessert cravings without added sugars.

59. Stuffed Mushrooms

Fill mushroom caps with herbs and finely chopped CHOMPS Italian Beef Sticks for savory nutritious holiday snacks that are both elegant and a good source of protein.

60. Bell Pepper Nachos

Make creative healthy holiday treats using colorful bell peppers as chips. Top them with guacamole and whatever meats you like for a festive appetizer.

Creating Unforgettable Celebrations with These Irresistible Holiday Snacks

Despite the many factors that make us all unique, food is a common thread that brings people together. While this is true all year long, the holidays are a special season where food becomes a celebratory centerpiece among your community.

What we remember the most about festive gatherings during this time of year isn't just the people we spent time with or the places we visited, but also the food we shared. Consider trying some of the holiday snack ideas above to create your own memorable holiday gatherings this year. 

Now that you know about healthy holiday snacks, let's discover some cozy snacks that are perfect for winter to keep you warm from the inside out. Shop directly online at the CHOMPS store to stock up on a variety of nutritious, high-quality snacks to accommodate all dietary lifestyles.

References:

[1] Njike VY, Smith TM, Shuval O, Shuval K, Edshteyn I, Kalantari V, Yaroch AL. Snack Food, Satiety, and Weight. Adv Nutr. 2016 Sep 15;7(5):866-78. doi: 10.3945/an.115.009340. PMID: 27633103; PMCID: PMC5015032.

[2] Pereira MA, O'Reilly E, Augustsson K, Fraser GE, Goldbourt U, Heitmann BL, Hallmans G, Knekt P, Liu S, Pietinen P, Spiegelman D, Stevens J, Virtamo J, Willett WC, Ascherio A. Dietary fiber and risk of coronary heart disease: a pooled analysis of cohort studies. Arch Intern Med. 2004 Feb 23;164(4):370-6. doi: 10.1001/archinte.164.4.370. PMID: 14980987.