15 budget party finger food ideas
These simple, budget entertaining ideas don't scrimp on flavour or fun-factor. Even if you are on a budget, there's no need to miss out on throwing a party
Thinking about entertaining but worried about the costs adding up? There's plenty of ways to keep finger foods for a party affordable even on a tight budget, such as serving a simple homemade hummus or loading up cooked potato skins with mouth-watering toppings. By making homemade finger food, you can keep the costs of your party down while also impressing your guests with your delicious creations. Don't worry though, you won't spend the whole night in the kitchen! Our simple party food ideas make the most of storecupboard ingredients and time-saving hacks to create delicious cheap nibbles and budget finger foods that can be whipped up in a flash.
Hosting more special occasions on a shoe-string? These budget dinner party ideas and party recipes on a budget help to cut costs whilst entertaining friends and family, and for little ones' parties check out these kids' birthday party food ideas.
Our top 15 budget finger foods
1. Mini sausage rolls
Why does everything taste better in mini form? These dinky sausage rolls require just a handful of ingredients and make the most of ready-rolled puff pastry so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time socialising with friends and family. Serve alongside a homemade tomato chutney if you want to go the extra mile.
2. Hummus
Whizz up a speedy hummus using pantry staples such as tinned chickpeas, garlic and tahini. Homemade hummus tastes infinitely better than shop-bought and it is a very purse-friendly option alongside warm toasted pittas and veggie crudités.
Dips never fail to go down well at a party – check out our collection of dips recipes.
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3. Loaded potato skins
There's not much the humble spud can't do, and it more than rises to the occasion when it comes to budget-friendly inspiration. Scoop out cooked potato flesh and mash it with soured cream and cheddar cheese. Chives make a great, milder alternative to spring onions and for a veggie-friendly option bacon can be omitted.
4. Quick cheese straws
Another recipe flying the flag for ready-rolled puff pastry, these cheese straws are made in record time. Grated parmesan is sprinkled over the pastry sheet, then cut and rolled into shape.
For an alternative with a bit more of a kick, why not try this cheese & mustard version.
5. Smoked mackerel & horseradish chicory cups
One for the more refined palettes out there, this recipe may sound and look fancy, however it makes use of tinned mackerel which is happily still a budget-friendly option. It's also very quick and easy to throw together – although your guests will be none the wiser.
If you want to keep levelling-up your party food presentation game, spicy mince & lettuce cups will also make a great addition to the table.
6. Baked ham hock pots
The uncooked mixture for these ham hock pots can be made and refrigerated up to two days in advance, so why not prep them ahead to minimise last-minute stress. Served in individual ramekins, the recipe can easily be scaled up to suit your entertaining needs.
7. Carrot & caraway crackers
Carrots are one of the most cost-effective veggies out there – and these easy carrot canapés will also satisfy your vegan friends. If you're really looking to impress you can even pipe your homemade carrot purée onto the crackers – your guests will never guess that they're secretly very affordable.
If you're hosting more plant-based guests take a look at our vegan canapé recipes.
8. Aubergine & chickpea bites
A twist on the classic chickpea falafel, these healthy vegan canapés incorporate aubergine for some added flair and flavour. For a simple but effective dip, mix coconut yogurt with harissa paste.
Find all of our falafel recipes here.
9. Mini quiches
Another match made in finger food heaven, a party is not complete without a mini quiche or two. Bake them the day before or even freeze ahead to ensure stress-free entertaining on a budget.
If you can't get enough quiche recipes then you won't be short for inspiration.
10. Classic devilled eggs
A great veggie option for your party spread, hard-boiled eggs are filled with storecupboard staples such as mayo, mustard, yogurt and a pinch of cayenne powder. Finish off with a sprinkle of chopped chives for the perfect garnish.
For a Japanese-inspired twist, these devilled eggs are sprinkled with furikake - a Japanese condiment traditionally used on rice.
11. Mini muffin pizzas
Adults and kids alike will love these mini muffin pizzas. A very quick and easy alternative to homemade pizza dough, English breakfast muffins are spread with a no-cook tomato purée and pesto sauce. Decorate with toppings of your choice – mushrooms, ham and cheese all work well – then pop under the grill until golden and bubbling. Also, check out our spelt pizza bianco with Jersey Royals recipe.
If you do want to try your hand at homemade pizza dough, try our pizza Margherita in four easy steps.
12. Onion rings
The secret to a really light batter is using sparkling water in this onion rings recipe. The rest of the ingredients you should find lying around in your cupboard – an onion, oil and self-raising flour.
For a more grown-up version, these easy pickled onion rings use lager in their batter.
13. Mini choc-orange cheesecake tarts
For your guests with a sweet tooth, they're sure to be satisfied with these mini chocolate and orange cheesecake tarts. Another clever use of pre-made dough – in this case chocolate chip cookie dough – the baked cookie cups are filled with a luscious mandarin juice-spiked cream.
Who doesn't love a cheesecake? We've got all manner of cheesecake recipes which are sure to go down a storm.
14. Vegan chocolate party traybake
A nostalgic chocolate traybake is guaranteed to go down a treat at any party or special occasion. The sheet cake is spread with a dairy-free chocolate buttercream and topped with colourful sprinkles for a fun final flourish.
For plant-based versions of classic cakes check out our vegan cake recipes.
15. Lamingtons
The Australian classic bake elevates a plain sponge to stratospheric levels for sweet-lovers, filling it with cream and jam and dipping it in chocolate icing and desiccated coconut. What's not to love?
If your sweet tooth still isn't satisfied we've got more sweet canapé recipes.
Still got a hankering for finger foods? We've got plenty more to keep you satisfied
What are your favourite budget-friendly recipes and time-saving swaps? Let us know in the comments...
