Description
Pumpkin Shaped Cheese Ball: Creamy, cheesy centerpiece perfect for fall gatherings and festive celebrations.
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (plus extra for dusting)
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1–2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)
- 1 stem from a bell pepper (for the pumpkin “stem”)
- Plastic wrap
- Twine or rubber bands
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, pepper, and herbs until smooth and well mixed.
- Scoop mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap and shape roughly into a ball.
- Wrap the plastic tightly around the cheese ball, then use several pieces of twine or rubber bands to create vertical indentations, mimicking pumpkin grooves.
- Refrigerate for at least 2–4 hours, or until firm enough to hold its shape.
- Remove the twine or bands and unwrap carefully.
- Lightly dust with extra smoked paprika for a deeper orange color.
- Press the bell pepper stem into the top to complete the pumpkin look.
- Serve with crackers, pretzels, or fresh veggie sticks.
Notes
- Make ahead: refrigerate for up to 1 day before serving for easier timing.
- For a deeper orange color, dust with a bit more smoked paprika or finely ground cheddar.
- If avoiding cayenne, omit it or use a pinch of chili powder for warmth.
- Use a sharp knife to carve the grooves after one or two firm chills to help hold the shape.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Chilled/No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Pumpkin Shaped Cheese Ball, pumpkin cheese ball, festive cheese ball, fall appetizer, party centerpiece