Kick off your Christmas dinner with three simple, festive appetizers: stuffed mushrooms, mini Caprese skewers, and cranberry & Brie puff pastry bites. These bites are elegant, flavorful, and easy to prepare.
Step 1: Stuffed Mushrooms
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove stems from 20 button mushrooms. Sauté 3 minced garlic cloves in 2 tbsp olive oil for 1–2 minutes. Mix with ½ cup breadcrumbs, ¼ cup Parmesan, 2 tbsp parsley, salt, and pepper. Stuff each mushroom cap and bake 15–20 minutes until golden. Optional: add sautéed spinach, walnuts, or dried cranberries.
Step 2: Mini Caprese Skewers
Thread cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and mozzarella balls onto toothpicks. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Optional: swap balsamic for pesto or add a small strawberry piece for sweetness.
Step 3: Cranberry & Brie Puff Pastry Bites
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut puff pastry into 2-inch squares, top each with a cube of Brie and a spoonful of cranberry sauce. Fold corners into parcels and brush with beaten egg. Bake 12–15 minutes until golden. Optional: sprinkle almonds or herbs for extra flair.
Pro Tip: One Tool for All Appetizers
Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. It ensures mushrooms, skewers, and puff pastry bites bake evenly, prevents sticking, and makes cleanup quick and easy.
Explore our selection of baking sheets here!
