Cerium dioxide (CeO₂)-based nanocomposites, as a branch of nanocomposites, are always constructed from CeO₂ combining with other constituents, which exhibit enhanced performance and excellent stability due to their inherent synergistic systems. The modulation of morphology, size, and types of doping of active metals can be achieved by designing the structures, which providing the opportunity to construct diverse CeO₂-based nanocomposites. The optimization of the structure enables the design of new multifunctional CeO₂-based nanocomposites for various applications such as the field of catalysis. In this minireview, we describe the recent development of the nanocomposites based on noble metal-, transition metal-, and metal-organic framework (MOF)-CeO₂, which are synthesized through various scientific and rational methods. Meanwhile, the design, synthesis, and basic working principles for CeO₂-based nanocomposites are also elucidated. In addition, some examples of their catalytic applications such as electrocatalysis, photocatalysis, and thermocatalysis are also discussed. Finally, the structure—activity relationship in guiding the design and synthesis of CeO₂-based nanocomposites is summarized and prospected.