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So, last night my wife and I threw a “Media/Music” Open House type party. We invited all of our worship band/singers, lighting crew, a/v team, and a few of the MCs from our children’s ministry (my wife administrates and works with the MCs).

Anyhoo, it was a drop-by sort of Christmas Party from 6-8. We had a pretty big group come through, although I don’t have an official count.

I thought I’d share some of the appetizers and snacks I had out, just in case you decide to do something similar or have to go to a party and need something last minute, etc. etc.

I did throw down in the kitchen but the great thing about ALL of the appetizers I prepared is that they are quick and easy.

Here’s a rundown of the table:

1) Swiss Cheese Spread Topped with Almonds
2) Baked Cinnamon Popcorn
3) Cheesy Sausage Balls
4) Raspberry Mozzarella Cheese Spread
5) Apple Butter Swedish Meatballs
6) Cranberry Apple Cider

There were a few more items, but either my wife prepared them, or they were bought beforehand (dove chocolates, old-fashioned cokes).

All in all it turned out spectacular, and the spreads were the hit of the party, along with mucho kudos for the cider!

I’ll post the cider recipe and don’t hesitate to contact me if you’d like any of the others.

Cranberry Apple Cider (in slow cooker)

2 Qts. Apple Cider (not apple juice)
6 Cups Cranberry Juice (not cocktail)
1/4 Cup Brown Sugar
4 cinnamon Sticks
1 1/2 Teaspoons Whole Cloves

This recipe is pretty simple:

1. Pour cider, cranberry juice into large pot or slow cooker.
2. Mix in brown sugar (subtract or add according to your sweetness preference).
3. Add cinnamon sticks and cloves.
4. Let mull on low heat. I started ours at about noon and served the first cup at about 6:15 so the fragrant aroma of spiced cider filled the whole house. Very nice.

Serves about 20 (unless you use smaller cups)

You might also want to use a cheesecloth “spice bag” (think big tea bag) if you want to keep your spices out of your cups. Or use a slotted spoon to remove the cinnamon and cloves before you serve. Whatever floats your cider.

I recommend using the slow cooker because it’s easy to manage and you don’t have to have your stove on all day. Plus you can pick it up and move it where you need it. About an hour before guests arrived, we moved it into the living room, where we served from, and the aroma was very appropriate for our Christmas party.

What are YOU cooking/serving this Christmas?