Description
A festive Pumpkin Cheese Ball made with cream cheese, cheddar, and savory seasonings, shaped like a pumpkin and perfect for fall parties and holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
16 oz cream cheese, softened
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp smoked paprika (plus extra for coating)
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1–2 tbsp hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce (optional)
1 bell pepper stem (for decoration)
Crackers and fresh vegetables, for serving
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and optional hot sauce/Worcestershire until smooth.
2. Transfer mixture onto plastic wrap and shape into a ball. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
3. Unwrap and sprinkle with smoked paprika or roll in crushed crackers for an orange color. Wrap with kitchen twine to form pumpkin-like grooves.
4. Place a bell pepper stem on top for decoration.
5. Serve with crackers, pretzels, and veggies.
Notes
Chill the cheese ball for best results.
Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother texture.
Make mini versions with pretzel stick stems for individual servings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
Keywords: pumpkin cheese ball, fall appetizer, Halloween party dip, festive cheese ball, Thanksgiving appetizer