Graduation parties are a time for celebration, reflection, and looking ahead to the future. As friends and family gather to honor a milestone achievement, one of the most exciting aspects of the event is the food. A well-curated selection of snacks can add to the festive atmosphere, allowing guests to mingle and snack while enjoying the party.
When it comes to planning a graduation party, variety is key. You want snacks that cater to all tastes, are easy to serve, and add to the fun vibe of the occasion. Whether you’re hosting a small get-together or a larger gathering, these 22 graduation party snack ideas are sure to keep your guests satisfied and coming back for more.
1. Buffalo Chicken Dip Cups
Delightful Buffalo Chicken Dip Cups are delightful snacks that offer the bold flavors of buffalo chicken in a perfectly portioned cup, making it both easy to serve and eat. Topped with crunchy celery sticks or crispy chips, these cups deliver the ultimate combination of creamy richness and spicy heat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 package cream cheese (8 oz)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup diced celery (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips or celery sticks for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cream cheese, ranch dressing, and buffalo sauce over medium heat. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add the shredded chicken to the saucepan and stir to coat with the sauce mixture.
- Remove from heat and fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled blue cheese (if using).
- Spoon the mixture into small cups (or individual oven-safe ramekins).
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly.
- Garnish with diced celery on top and serve with tortilla chips or celery sticks on the side for dipping.
2. Cake Pop Stand
Add a fun and festive touch to your graduation party with these adorable Cake Pops, designed to look like graduation caps. Coated in vibrant school colors and adorned with golden sprinkles, these bite-sized treats are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. Whether displayed on a decorative cake pop stand or served in individual cups, these cake pops are perfect for adding a playful yet classy element to your celebration.
Ingredients
- 1 box of vanilla cake mix (or your favorite cake flavor)
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup blue candy melts (or your school colors)
- 1/4 cup golden sprinkles
- Black fondant or black candy melts (for the cap)
Instructions
- Prepare the cake mix according to the instructions on the box. Once baked, let the cake cool completely.
- Crumble the cooled cake into small pieces in a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the butter, milk, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Gradually add the butter mixture to the crumbled cake and stir until well combined. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to hold its shape.
- Roll the cake mixture into small balls, about the size of a tablespoon, and insert a wooden stick into each ball.
- Melt the blue candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring in 20-second intervals until smooth.
- Dip each cake pop into the melted candy and let excess chocolate drip off. Dip the top of each cake pop in golden sprinkles to give it a celebratory look.
- For the graduation cap, use black fondant or melted black candy melts to create a small square to fit on top of the cake pop, mimicking a graduation cap.
- Let the cake pops set for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate has hardened completely.
- Arrange the cake pops on a decorative stand for a beautiful presentation.
3. Candy Bar
Arrange a variety of colorful candies in clear jars, complete with scoops and treat bags, allowing guests to fill up their own bags with an assortment of sugary delights. This setup not only doubles as a decorative centerpiece but also serves as an edible party favor, letting guests take home a sweet reminder of the day’s festivities.
Ingredients
- A selection of the grad’s favorite candies (gummy bears, jelly beans, chocolates, licorice, etc.)
- Clear glass jars or candy dishes
- Scoops for each candy
- Treat bags or small containers for guests to fill
- Decorative items such as ribbons, labels, or signage (optional)
Instructions
- Choose a variety of candies that the graduate enjoys. Opt for a mix of colorful options to create a vibrant display.
- Fill each clear jar or candy dish with one type of candy, ensuring each jar is easily accessible for guests to scoop from.
- Place a small scoop inside each jar to allow guests to serve themselves.
- Arrange the candy jars on a table, ideally placed near the party’s dessert or snack area. If desired, use decorative elements like ribbons or signs that say “Candy Bar” to enhance the look.
- Set out treat bags or small containers for guests to fill with their selected candies. You can also provide personalized labels or fun stickers to make the experience feel extra special.
- Make sure to have extra treat bags available for guests to take home a sweet keepsake from the party.
4. Caprese Skewers
Caprese skewers are a delightful twist on the classic Caprese salad, with the added benefit of being perfect for finger food at your graduation party. Skewered cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella balls are drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze, offering a burst of flavor in each bite. They are both visually stunning and incredibly easy to prepare, making them an ideal appetizer or snack for any celebration.
Ingredients
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (red, yellow, or a mix)
- 8 oz mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze
- Olive oil
- Salt and black pepper
- Wooden skewers
Instructions
- Begin by washing and drying the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves.
- Thread the skewers with one cherry tomato, followed by a fresh basil leaf, then a mozzarella ball, and another basil leaf, finishing with another cherry tomato. Continue this pattern until all skewers are assembled.
- Arrange the skewers on a serving platter.
- Drizzle the skewers lightly with olive oil and a generous amount of balsamic glaze.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Cheese & Charcuterie Cups
Cheese & charcuterie cups are a sophisticated yet easy-to-eat snack for your graduation party. These individually portioned servings combine a mix of flavorful cheeses, meats, olives, and fruits for the perfect bite every time. With a touch of elegance, these cups eliminate the mess of traditional grazing boards, providing guests with a delightful experience in one neat little package.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed olives (green and black)
- 1 oz soft cheese (goat cheese, brie, or cream cheese)
- 2-3 slices of charcuterie (salami, prosciutto, or soppressata)
- 1-2 crackers per cup
- Fresh fruit (grapes, berries, or apple slices)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Start by selecting your serving cups (small clear plastic or glass cups work well).
- Begin by placing a few olives at the bottom of each cup.
- Add a couple of slices of your chosen charcuterie (fold them to fit neatly within the cup).
- Place a small block of cheese in the center or add a spoonful of soft cheese like goat cheese or cream cheese.
- Arrange fresh fruit like grapes, berries, or apple slices around the cheese and meat.
- Add a cracker or two to the side of the cup, making sure it fits without disrupting the other ingredients.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary for a fragrant and visually appealing touch.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
6. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
Chocolate-dipped strawberries are a classic treat that brings a burst of flavor to any party. These strawberries are dipped in silky, smooth chocolate and topped with colorful sprinkles, making them both visually appealing and irresistible. Whether you’re serving them as a fun snack or a decadent dessert, they’re sure to be a hit at your graduation celebration.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh strawberries
- 8 oz dark chocolate (or milk chocolate for a sweeter taste)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (optional, to thin the chocolate)
- 1/4 cup colorful sprinkles
Instructions
- Begin by washing the strawberries and patting them dry thoroughly with a paper towel. Make sure no water remains on them to ensure the chocolate sticks properly.
- Melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method), or microwave it in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. If you prefer a thinner chocolate coating, add a tablespoon or two of vegetable oil to the chocolate and stir until fully incorporated.
- Hold each strawberry by the leaves and dip it into the melted chocolate, swirling to coat about two-thirds of the berry.
- Allow the excess chocolate to drip off before placing the dipped strawberry on a parchment-lined tray.
- Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle each strawberry with colorful sprinkles to add some extra flair.
- Let the chocolate-dipped strawberries cool and harden at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or speed up the process by refrigerating them for 10-15 minutes.
- Serve immediately or store them in the refrigerator until ready to enjoy.
7. Crispy Chicken Bites
Crispy chicken bites are the perfect snack for a graduation party, offering a crunchy, flavorful coating with tender, juicy chicken inside. Whether you bake or fry them, these golden, bite-sized nuggets are easy to eat and fun to dip into your favorite sauces. They’re a crowd-pleaser, satisfying a variety of taste preferences with their crispy exterior and savory flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying) or cooking spray (for baking)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking. If frying, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Prepare three shallow bowls for dredging: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each piece of chicken into the flour, making sure it’s fully coated. Then dip it into the egg, and finally, coat it with the panko mixture, pressing down gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well.
- If baking, arrange the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and lightly spray them with cooking spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked, turning halfway through.
- If frying, carefully add the chicken bites to the hot oil and fry for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
8. DIY Nacho Bar
A DIY Nacho Bar allows guests to get creative and build their own nacho masterpieces, making it both interactive and delicious. With a variety of toppings like gooey cheese, spicy jalapeños, fresh salsa, creamy guacamole, and savory beans, everyone can create their ultimate snack combination. This customizable station is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone satisfied.
Ingredients
- Tortilla chips
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Jalapeños, sliced
- Fresh salsa
- Guacamole
- Sour cream
- Black beans, cooked and seasoned
- Chopped onions
- Sliced olives
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Set up a table with bowls or serving trays to hold each of the toppings.
- Start by laying out a large bowl or platter of crispy tortilla chips as the base.
- Arrange the toppings in separate bowls so guests can easily access each one.
- For the cheese, consider offering both shredded cheddar and mozzarella, or even melted cheese for a gooey topping.
- Include a variety of optional toppings such as jalapeños, onions, olives, and fresh tomatoes for added flavor and texture.
- Provide a few scoops of sour cream and guacamole for that extra creamy touch.
- For those looking for a heartier option, add seasoned black beans or ground beef as a protein choice.
- Allow guests to load up their chips with the toppings of their choice, drizzle with salsa, and top with cilantro for a fresh finish.
9. Donut Bar
A Donut Bar is a sweet and fun way to celebrate any occasion, and it’s especially perfect for a graduation party. This snack idea brings together fluffy, freshly baked donuts and a variety of toppings for guests to customize their treats. You can offer classic glazes, vibrant sprinkles, creamy frosting, and more to create an interactive dessert experience.
Ingredients
- Assorted donuts (plain, glazed, or filled)
- Assorted sprinkles (rainbow, chocolate, white, etc.)
- Chocolate frosting
- Vanilla frosting
- Fruit toppings (strawberries, blueberries, bananas)
- Crushed nuts (almonds, walnuts)
- Mini chocolate chips
- Coconut flakes
- Caramel sauce
- Marshmallow fluff
Instructions
- Set up a donut display with a variety of donuts, such as glazed, chocolate-filled, or classic plain donuts.
- Arrange toppings and garnishes in small bowls around the donut station. Include options like sprinkles, chocolate chips, and crushed nuts.
- Offer a variety of frostings such as chocolate and vanilla, so guests can drizzle them over their donuts.
- Add some fun toppings like fresh fruit, mini chocolate chips, coconut flakes, and even marshmallow fluff for that extra indulgent touch.
- If you’d like, offer drizzles of caramel sauce or syrup for a sweet finishing touch.
- Encourage guests to top their donuts with their favorite combinations of toppings and frostings for a personalized treat.
- Serve the decorated donuts immediately or allow guests to take them home in little treat bags.
10. Fruit Pizza Bites
Colorful fruit pizza bites are a fresh, bite-sized twist on the classic fruit pizza. Featuring a soft sugar cookie base topped with a luscious cream cheese spread and a vibrant selection of fresh fruits, they are both visually appealing and delicious. Perfect for a graduation party, these mini treats provide a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness, making them a hit among guests of all ages.
Ingredients
- 1 package of sugar cookie dough
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup assorted fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, kiwi, orange segments)
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the sugar cookie dough and cut it into small circles using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass. Arrange the dough circles on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake according to the instructions on the sugar cookie dough package, typically 8-10 minutes or until the edges are golden. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
- In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
- Once the cookies have cooled, spread a generous layer of cream cheese mixture on each cookie base.
- Decorate the fruit pizza bites with assorted fresh fruit. You can use strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, and orange segments for a colorful display.
- Drizzle with a bit of honey for extra sweetness (optional).
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
11. Fruit Skewers with Coconut
Vibrant fruit skewers are a refreshing, healthy snack that will be a hit at your graduation party. Packed with juicy watermelon, sweet mango, and tangy kiwi, they are as colorful as they are delicious. The addition of shredded coconut gives them an extra layer of tropical flavor, making them the perfect light, easy-to-eat treat that’s both visually appealing and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients
- 1 cup watermelon, cubed
- 1 cup mango, cubed
- 1 cup kiwi, peeled and sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- Wooden skewers
Instructions
- Start by preparing the fruit. Cut the watermelon and mango into cubes, and peel and slice the kiwi into thick rounds.
- Thread the fruit onto the wooden skewers, alternating the watermelon, mango, and kiwi for a colorful effect.
- Once all the skewers are assembled, sprinkle shredded coconut generously over the fruit for a tropical flair.
- Serve immediately for a refreshing treat, or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
12. Graduation Cap Brownie Bites
Adorable Graduation Cap Brownie Bites are a perfect dessert to celebrate your big day! The fudgy brownie squares are topped with mini Reese’s cups and chocolate squares, making them look just like tiny graduation caps. Not only are they delicious, but they also bring a fun, festive touch to your graduation party spread.
Ingredients
- 1 box of brownie mix (or homemade brownies)
- 1/2 cup mini Reese’s cups
- 1/2 cup chocolate squares
- Multi-colored candy (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
- Prepare the brownie mix according to package instructions or your favorite homemade recipe.
- Once baked, cut the brownies into small squares to form the base of your graduation cap bites.
- For each brownie, place a mini Reese’s cup on top as the base of the cap.
- Gently melt the chocolate squares until soft enough to mold into flat squares, then place a chocolate square on top of each Reese’s cup to create the ‘top’ of the cap.
- Optionally, decorate each cap with multi-colored candy on top of the Reese’s cup for an added festive touch.
- Let the chocolate cool and set before serving to maintain the cap shape.
13. Mini Mac & Cheese Bites
Mini Mac & Cheese Bites are the ultimate comfort food transformed into an easy-to-eat party snack. These crispy, golden bites are filled with creamy mac and cheese that has been baked to perfection and coated in a crunchy breadcrumb topping. They’re great for parties and celebrations, offering a bite-sized twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Ketchup or dipping sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a mini muffin tin or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, and milk. Stir until well combined.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spoon the mixture into the muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of each mac and cheese bite, then drizzle with melted butter for added crispiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and crispy.
- Let the bites cool for a few minutes before removing them from the muffin tin.
- Serve warm with a side of ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce.
14. Mini Quesadilla Triangles
Mini Quesadilla Triangles are the perfect snack for a graduation party! These bite-sized, cheesy treats are packed with melted cheese, seasoned with a bit of spice, and toasted to golden perfection. They are ideal for dipping into salsa or sour cream and make for an easy-to-eat, crowd-pleasing snack.
Ingredients
- 4 flour tortillas
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Butter for toasting
- Salsa and sour cream for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Lay a tortilla flat and sprinkle a generous amount of both mozzarella and cheddar cheese over one half of the tortilla.
- Sprinkle cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper over the cheese, and then top with a few diced tomatoes.
- Fold the tortilla in half, covering the filling, and press gently.
- Melt a small amount of butter in the skillet and place the quesadilla in the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
- Remove from the skillet and let it cool slightly before cutting it into small triangles.
- Serve with salsa and sour cream on the side for dipping.
15. Mini Sandwich Sliders
Mini Sandwich Sliders are bite-sized delights packed with delicious flavors. Whether you choose to fill them with classic ham, turkey, or even chicken salad, these sliders are always a crowd-pleaser. Served on soft, pillowy rolls, they’re easy to eat and perfect for grazing throughout the celebration.
Ingredients
- 12 slider rolls
- 8 slices of ham or turkey (or chicken salad)
- 12 slices of cheese (cheddar or Swiss)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the slider rolls in half horizontally without separating them.
- Place the bottom half of the rolls in a baking dish, arranging them closely together.
- Layer the ham or turkey slices evenly on top of the rolls. If using chicken salad, spread it evenly over the rolls.
- Add a slice of cheese on top of the meat or salad layer.
- Place the top halves of the rolls onto the sandwiches.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, Dijon mustard, honey, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture over the top of the rolls.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese has melted and the rolls are golden brown.
- Serve hot and enjoy these mini sandwiches that are big on flavor and perfect for a graduation celebration.
16. Pizza Pinwheels
Pizza Pinwheels are an irresistible party snack, offering all the flavors of a classic pizza in a fun, bite-sized form. These easy-to-make pinwheels are made with flaky crescent dough, pizza sauce, mozzarella, and pepperoni. Simply roll the ingredients into a log, slice into pinwheels, and bake to golden perfection.
Ingredients
- 1 can of crescent dough (8 oz)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 12 slices of pepperoni
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Unroll the crescent dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Press the seams together to form one large rectangle.
- Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Layer the pepperoni slices on top of the cheese.
- If desired, sprinkle some oregano and black pepper over the toppings.
- Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log, sealing the edges as you go.
- Slice the rolled dough into 1-inch-thick pinwheels and arrange them on the baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the pinwheels are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping.
17. Popcorn Snack Cones
Popcorn Snack Cones are the perfect blend of portability and flavor, making them an ideal snack for a graduation party. These paper cones are filled with deliciously seasoned popcorn that can be customized to suit any taste—whether sweet, savory, or spicy. The addition of crispy bacon bits or your favorite seasoning makes every bite extra delightful.
Ingredients
- 1 bag of microwave popcorn (or freshly popped popcorn)
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Your choice of seasoning (e.g., garlic powder, paprika, cinnamon sugar)
Instructions
- Pop the popcorn according to the package instructions or using your preferred method.
- If using bacon, cook and crumble the bacon into small pieces.
- Pour the popped popcorn into a large bowl.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the popcorn, if using, and toss gently to coat.
- Sprinkle your desired seasonings over the popcorn. For savory, you can add garlic powder and Parmesan cheese. For spice, try paprika or chili powder. If you prefer sweet, cinnamon sugar works wonders!
- Add crumbled bacon to the popcorn if you like that extra savory crunch.
- Carefully fill paper cones with the seasoned popcorn mixture.
- Serve immediately or store in airtight containers for later enjoyment.
18. Pretzel Bites with Cheese Dip
Pretzel Bites with Cheese Dip are the ultimate crowd-pleasing snack that pairs warm, soft pretzel nuggets with a creamy, gooey cheese dip. These bite-sized pretzels are perfectly salted, offering that satisfying balance between soft and crunchy textures. The accompanying cheese dip, rich and velvety, adds the perfect complement to the salty goodness of the pretzels, making each bite utterly irresistible.
Ingredients
- 1 bag of pretzel bites (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Salt (to taste)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven according to the package instructions for the pretzel bites, or prepare homemade pretzels and set aside.
- In a small saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually add the milk, stirring to combine and ensure the mixture is smooth.
- Once the mixture thickens, add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it’s completely melted and smooth.
- Season the cheese dip with salt to taste.
- Arrange the pretzel bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake as per package instructions until golden brown and hot.
- Serve the warm pretzel bites alongside the cheesy dip. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch of flavor.
19. S’mores Dip
S’mores Dip brings the campfire favorite right to your graduation party without the need for an open flame. Rich, melty chocolate and golden-brown marshmallows combine to create a creamy, gooey treat that’s perfect for dipping. The warm, comforting sweetness of the marshmallows pairs beautifully with the crisp crunch of graham crackers.
Ingredients
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 8-10 graham crackers (for dipping)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for greasing)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a small cast-iron skillet or oven-safe dish with butter.
- Pour the chocolate chips into the skillet and add the heavy cream. Stir to combine, creating a smooth layer of chocolate.
- Arrange the mini marshmallows evenly on top of the chocolate mixture.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the marshmallows are golden brown and the chocolate is bubbling.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Serve with graham crackers for dipping, and enjoy the gooey, indulgent treat.
20. Salad Cups
Salad Cups are individual portions that are filled with layers of fresh, crunchy vegetables, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese, all topped with a creamy dressing. The beauty of these salad cups lies in their simplicity and convenience. Perfect for a grab-and-go snack, they can be prepped ahead of time and offer a mess-free way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying option at your graduation party.
Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped lettuce (green or romaine)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 strips of bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing (or your preferred dressing)
Instructions
- Start by preparing the vegetables. Slice the cucumbers and halve the cherry tomatoes.
- In a small glass or plastic cup, layer the chopped lettuce as the first layer.
- Add a layer of cucumber slices, followed by a layer of cherry tomatoes.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the tomatoes.
- Crumble the cooked bacon and scatter it over the cheese.
- Drizzle the ranch dressing (or any dressing of your choice) over the top layer.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve for a fresh, easy snack.
21. Veggie Cups
For a refreshing and healthy option, Veggie Cups are an ideal snack for your graduation party. Packed with colorful veggie sticks—such as crunchy carrots, crisp celery, and sweet bell peppers—each cup is filled with a creamy ranch dip at the bottom, adding a rich, savory flavor. These single-serve portions are not only delicious but also portable, making them easy to serve and enjoy without the mess.
Ingredients
- 1 cup carrots, cut into sticks
- 1 cup celery, cut into sticks
- 1 cup yellow bell pepper, cut into sticks
- 1 cup red bell pepper, cut into sticks
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup ranch dip (or dressing)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables by washing and peeling the carrots. Cut them into long sticks.
- Wash the celery stalks and cut them into similarly sized sticks as the carrots.
- Slice the bell peppers into thin strips, discarding the seeds and core.
- Divide the prepared vegetables evenly into small plastic cups, layering them to fit.
- Add a few cherry tomatoes into each cup for a burst of color and flavor.
- Spoon a generous amount of ranch dip into the bottom of each cup, ensuring the veggies are easy to dip.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
22. Walking Tacos
Walking tacos are an incredible and portable snack option for your graduation party, giving everyone the fun and flavor of tacos without the mess! Each individual bag of chips is filled with seasoned taco meat and topped with all the classic taco ingredients like fresh tomatoes, creamy guacamole, and shredded cheese.
Ingredients
- 4 small bags of tortilla chips
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground chicken/turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup guacamole
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
- 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef (or chicken/turkey) until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add taco seasoning and water to the cooked meat. Stir well and cook for another 5-10 minutes until the seasoning has been fully absorbed by the meat.
- Open the bags of tortilla chips and gently crush them a bit, so they are ready to be filled with toppings.
- Spoon a generous portion of the seasoned taco meat into each chip bag.
- Add your favorite taco toppings such as diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, guacamole, sour cream, and jalapeños.
- Grab a fork, mix everything together in the bag, and enjoy!
Conclusion
With these 22 graduation party snack ideas, you’re ready to celebrate in style and satisfy all your guests’ cravings. From savory snacks to sweet treats, each option brings something unique to the table, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking to add a bit of elegance or fun to the event, these easy-to-make snacks will ensure your graduation party is a hit. So, gather your ingredients, get creative, and enjoy the day with your loved ones as you celebrate this exciting achievement.