New Year's Eve: 15 Festive Appetizers And Party Drinks

Ring in the New Year with some memorable hors d'oeuvres and cocktails. After all, it's your last chance to indulge before the resolutions start. Whether you're hosting a party or bringing a dish to one, these festive and easy recipes have you covered.
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Ring in the New Year with some memorable hors d'oeuvres and cocktails. After all, it's your last chance to indulge before the resolutions start. Whether you're hosting a party or bringing a dish to one, these festive and easy recipes have you covered.

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This creamy, spicy dip has all the flavor of Buffalo wings, minus the mess. Plus, it's made with a shredded rotisserie chicken, so it's quick and easy. GET THE RECIPE

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Every party needs a signature cocktail and this seasonal twist on a traditional margarita is perfect for the holidays. Use a good quality 100% agave tequila -- it'll taste better, and you'll be glad for it the next day. GET THE RECIPE

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Coconut Shrimp makes fabulous finger food for a party. Feel free to fry the shrimp a few hours ahead of time and reheat in the oven before serving. GET THE RECIPE

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Half dessert/half cocktail, a mudslide is the perfect adult treat to cap off the night -- and the year. You only need three ingredients to make them: Kahlua, vodka, and Baileys. GET THE RECIPE

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These crisp and flaky cheese straws specked with fresh herbs and chili flakes are wonderful with wine and cocktails. GET THE RECIPE

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Thanks to store bought puff pastry, this fancy-looking appetizer is easy to make -- and it comes with a "most popular person at the party" guarantee. GET THE RECIPE

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Skip the Velveeta: from-scratch queso is so much better! This version -- made with fresh jalapeños, Cheddar and Pepper Jack cheese -- is rich, creamy, and downright delicious. GET THE RECIPE

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My husband calls these candied pecans "crack nuts" because it's impossible to eat just one. The best part? You only need four simple ingredients to make them -- and if you start right now, you'll be done in 15 minutes. GET THE RECIPE

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If you're ringing in the New Year someplace sunny, mojitos are a must. Minty, fizzy, tart, and sweet -- the mojito is the perfect cool cocktail for a warm night. GET THE RECIPE

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Retro they may be, but Swedish Meatballs make perfect party fare. GET THE RECIPE

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Leave it to Nigella. I used to like my popcorn with just butter and salt but now that I've had her Party Popcorn, I don't want it any other way. Slightly sweet, salty, and seasoned with an exotic blend of spices, this stuff is downright habit-forming. GET THE RECIPE

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This warm cocktail combines spiked apple cider with hot buttered rum and warm spices. It's the ideal drink for a crowd because it simmers on the stove in a big pot for everyone to help themselves (making your house smell amazing) and you can make it ahead of time. GET THE RECIPE

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Leave the sour cream and mayonnaise behind: this Artichoke and Spinach dip is thickened with a Mornay sauce -- a Béchamel sauce with the addition of grated cheese. It bakes up creamy, cheesy and rich, and is delicious spooned over a sliced baguette. GET THE RECIPE

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Transform an ordinary block of feta into an addictive and flavorful spread with burst cherry tomatoes, capers, and a flash under the broiler. GET THE RECIPE

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This beautiful, bold sangria is made from red wine, pomegranate juice, brandy, orange liqueur, and fruit. Go ahead and make it ahead of time -- it's best when the fruit has a chance to steep in the punch overnight. Happy New Year! GET THE RECIPE

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