There’s a special kind of joy in serving snacks that feel like a treat without spending like it. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet evening at home, thoughtful pairings of simple, affordable ingredients can elevate even the most casual gathering. With a bit of creativity, you can assemble snack combinations under $10 that taste (and look) far more luxurious than their price tag suggests.

Let’s start with a classic: popcorn and sparkling wine. The salty crunch of popcorn balances beautifully with the bright, fizzy acidity of sparkling wine. Skip the fancy flavored popcorn and make your own at home with pantry staples. Toss it with melted butter, a pinch of salt, and, if you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of parmesan or smoked paprika. This homemade stovetop popcorn recipe from Cookie and Kate is a great guide for perfect results every time.

If you’re in the mood for something sweet and salty, try pairing chocolate with red wine. A simple bar of dark chocolate complements the bold, fruity flavors of wines like cabernet sauvignon or merlot. Look for store-brand or sale-priced chocolate bars, which often offer excellent quality without the premium price. For a deeper dive into pairing, Wine.com’s guide to pairing wine with chocloate is full of tips to balance flavors beautifully.

Cheese and crackers is another reliable combination that feels upscale but stays within budget. Go for an everyday favorite like sharp cheddar, paired with a sturdy cracker. Add a drizzle of honey or a dollop of jam to bring some contrast to the plate. You can also explore more adventurous cheeses like gouda or havarti when they’re on sale—small amounts go a long way. For pairing ideas, this cheese and cracker pairing guide from The Kitchn is an excellent resource.

Potato chips and prosecco might sound unconventional, but it’s a combination that’s gaining fans for good reason. The salty, fatty crunch of chips is the perfect foil for the crisp bubbles of prosecco. Choose plain or lightly salted chips to let the wine shine, and serve them in a nice bowl for a simple but elegant snack. 

For a healthier option, try apples and cheddar cheese. The sweet, crisp bite of an apple plays well against the creamy sharpness of cheddar. Slice the apple just before serving to keep it fresh and bright. You’ll get great contrast and a satisfying balance of flavors and textures. For extra flair, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey over the apple slices.

If you’re looking to bring a Mediterranean twist to your snack table, pair hummus with sliced cucumbers and pita chips. Hummus is filling, flavorful, and affordable—especially when you make it yourself. This easy homemade hummus recipe from Inspired Taste shows how a few basic ingredients can yield a creamy, delicious dip at a fraction of store-bought prices.

Finally, don’t underestimate the charm of a simple nut and dried fruit mix. Almonds or cashews combined with raisins or dried cranberries create a satisfying snack that’s both sweet and salty. Buy these ingredients in bulk if possible to maximize savings, and portion them into small bowls for easy sharing.

Creating snack pairings that feel special doesn’t require a big budget. With a little creativity and a focus on flavor contrasts—salty and sweet, crunchy and creamy—you can design combinations that delight your guests (or just yourself) for under $10. Affordable indulgence is all about making smart choices and enjoying the experience, bite by bite.