Halloween Appetizers - Cooking Light

Photo: John Autry

Healthy Halloween Appetizers

Why should the trick-or-treaters have all the fun? With these appetizer recipes you'll have a Halloween spread fit for all your spooky (and not-so-spooky) visitors. Many of these recipes can be made ahead so you won't be rushing around the kitchen between dashes to the front door with the candy bowl.

First up, Cajun Hot Crab Dip.

Spoon this dip into a baking dish up to a day ahead, but top with panko and chives just before baking. If it's chilled, leave the dish out at room temperature while the oven preheats. Scoop into multiple bowls that you can set at different tasting stations.

View Recipe: Cajun Hot Crab Dip

Photo: Marcus Nilsson

Peanut Butter and Chocolate Dipped Pretzels

Dip the pretzels, and store in the fridge on a parchment-lined tray up to five days ahead. Set out shortly before serving, but not too far ahead, as the chocolate may melt.

View Recipe: Peanut Butter and Chocolate Dipped Pretzels

Photo: Oxmoor House

Peanut Butter Caramel Corn

Just enough butter for caramel goodness. Peanut butter for heart-healthy richness.

View Recipe: Peanut Butter Caramel Corn

Photo: Marcus Nilsson

Phyllo-Wrapped Asparagus with Prosciutto

Crunchy phyllo-wrapped asparagus makes great pick-up bites for a party. You can also chop the prosciutto and sprinkle it on the phyllo if you want.

View Recipe: Phyllo-Wrapped Asparagus with Prosciutto

Caramelized Onion, Gruyere, and Bacon Spread

Photo: John Autry

Caramelized Onion, Gruyère, and Bacon Spread

Serve with crackers or bread slices. If you can't find Gruyère, substitute raclette, fontina, or Swiss cheese.

View Recipe: Caramelized Onion, Gruyère, and Bacon Spread

Photo: John Autry

Baked Feta with Romesco and Olive Tapenade

Make the romesco sauce and tapenade up to three days ahead, and keep them chilled separately.

View Recipe: Baked Feta with Romesco and Olive Tapenade

Photo: John Autry

Black Bean Hummus

This hummus recipe has a southwestern kick that everyone will love. We recommend serving with pita chips but you can also serve with assorted crudités.

View Recipe: Black Bean Hummus

Photo: Jonny Valiant

Date, Walnut, and Blue Cheese Ball

Prepare this retro-chic snack up to two days ahead, and serve with crackers, bread, or veggies. Rolled in minced fresh flat-leaf parsley, this cheese ball is festive enough for the most discerning party guests.

View Recipe: Date, Walnut, and Blue Cheese Ball

Photo: John Autry

Sloppy Joe Sliders

An already kid-friendly classic just got kicked up a notch. All your Halloween guests will love these pint-sized sliders.

View Recipe: Sloppy Joe Sliders

Photo: Romulo Yanes

Thai Cashew Brittle

Sharp shards of crisp Thai Cashew Brittle combine salty cashews and hot chile paste.

View Recipe: Thai Cashew Brittle

Photo: Iain Bagwell

Cheesy Pigs in a Blanket

This no-fuss appetizer option is always a crowd pleaser. Serve on a pretty platter to give these piggies a dash of elegance.

View Recipe: Cheesy Pigs in a Blanket

Photo: Lee Harrelson

Pumpkin Dip

Bring out the best of fall's flavors with this super-easy pumpkin dip, perfect for enjoying with fresh apple slices.

View Recipe: Pumpkin Dip

Photo: Lee Harrelson

Pumpkin Hummus

This appetizer recipe offers a fall-style twist on the traditional Middle Eastern spread. You can find pumpkinseeds—also called pepitas—in groceries and Mexican markets. Prepare this pumpkin hummus recipe up to a day ahead, and refrigerate.

View Recipe: Pumpkin Hummus

Photo: Becky Luigart-Stayner

Chili-Spiced Almonds

These flavorful nuts make a convenient party snack. Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week.

View Recipe: Chili-Spiced Almonds

Photo: Becky Luigart-Stayner

Alabama Pulled Pork Sandwiches with White Barbecue Sauce

These pulled pork sandwiches, topped with Alabama-style white barbecue sauce and served on homemade biscuits, are perfect for entertaining.

View Recipe: Alabama Pulled Pork Sandwiches with White Barbecue Sauce