Cranberry Pecan Mini Snack Cups for Easy Holiday Entertaining

Ever find yourself hovering by the holiday charcuterie board, trying to snag a bite before it’s all gone? These Cranberry Pecan Mini Snack Cups are the perfect solution. They give every guest their own little personal board, packed with all the sweet, savory, and crunchy flavors you love. It’s a fuss-free way to kick off a Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving feast without any of the crowd-induced chaos. And honestly, I think they’re just more fun to eat.

Top Reasons To Make It

You’ll love these individual charcuterie servings for so many reasons. They’re incredibly easy to assemble, which is a lifesaver when you’re juggling a dozen other dishes. They look absolutely gorgeous on the table, making it seem like you fussed way more than you actually did. Plus, they’re a huge hit with both kids and adults. They’re the ultimate make-ahead Thanksgiving appetizer, so you can actually enjoy your own party.

Ingredients

• 1 (8 oz) block of cream cheese, softened: For a smooth, spreadable base.
• 1/2 cup whole-berry cranberry sauce: Adds sweet and tart flavor.
• 1/4 cup finely chopped dried cranberries: For extra chewy texture.
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup: A natural sweetener that pairs perfectly with the nuts.
• 1 tsp fresh orange zest: Brightens up the whole mix.
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon: Brings in that warm, cozy holiday spice.
• 1 cup finely chopped toasted pecans: Provides that essential crunch.
• 1 sleeve of buttery round crackers (like Ritz): The edible cup itself!
• Fresh rosemary sprigs: For a pretty, aromatic garnish.

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until it’s completely smooth. This should only take about a minute.
2. Add the cranberry sauce, dried cranberries, maple syrup, orange zest, and cinnamon to the bowl. Fold everything together gently with a spatula until it’s just combined. You want to see pretty red swirls.
3. Place the chopped toasted pecans in a separate shallow bowl or plate.
4. Now for assembly! Take a cracker and spread a generous teaspoon of the cranberry-cheese mixture on top. Dip the topped side of the cracker into the pecans, pressing gently so they stick. You’ll get the hang of it after the first one.
5. Arrange your finished Cranberry Pecan Mini Snack Cups on a platter. Garnish each one with a tiny piece of rosemary for a pop of color. Serve immediately or chill until your guests arrive.

Thanksgiving Appetizers Ideas

If you’re building a whole spread of Thanksgiving appetizers, these mini cups are your star player. They pair beautifully with other simple bites. Think about adding a tray of baked brie with jam, some spiced nuts in a bowl, and a platter of fresh veggies with a creamy dip. For a Friendsgiving, these individual servings are perfect because they keep things casual and easy to eat while mingling. They truly are one of the easiest and most festive Thanksgiving appetizers ideas out there.

Holiday Appetizers Tips

• Toast those pecans! It only takes 5-7 minutes in a 350°F oven, but it makes a world of difference in flavor.
• Make the filling up to two days ahead. Just keep it sealed tight in the fridge and assemble the cups the day of so the crackers stay crisp.
• Let the cream cheese sit on the counter for a good 30 minutes before you start. Soft cheese is so, so much easier to work with.
• Use a small cookie scoop for the filling to keep your portions neat and even.
• Get the kids involved. They’re experts at the dipping and assembling part.

Variations & Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully flexible. For a dairy-free version, use your favorite plant-based cream cheese—it works like a charm. Not a fan of pecans? Try toasted walnuts or even sliced almonds. If you want to add a little savory element, a tiny bit of finely chopped smoked turkey mixed into the filling is delicious. And for a different fruit twist, fig jam is a fantastic substitute for the cranberry sauce.

Storage & Reheating

These snack cups are best enjoyed the same day they are assembled. If you need to store them, place them in a single layer in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 6 hours. Any longer and the crackers will start to soften. I don’t recommend freezing them, as the texture of the crackers won’t hold up. The filling, however, can be made ahead and stored separately in the fridge for 2-3 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make these Thanksgiving appetizers gluten-free? Absolutely! Just use your favorite gluten-free cracker. Many brands make a great buttery round cracker that would work perfectly.
• What’s the best way to transport these for a holiday party? Use a compartmentalized container or a muffin tin turned upside down to create little slots for each cup. This keeps them from jostling around and getting damaged.
• Are these Christmas appetizers too? Of course! The red and green from the cranberries and rosemary make them a natural fit for any festive holiday appetizer spread.