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Pumpkin-Shaped Cheese Ball Recipe

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4.4 from 1 review

This festive Pumpkin Shaped Cheese Ball is a perfect appetizer for autumn gatherings and holiday parties. Creamy cream cheese is blended with sharp cheddar, ranch seasoning, and fresh green onions, then shaped and decorated to resemble a charming pumpkin. It’s a crowd-pleasing, savory snack with a fun presentation that will delight your guests.

  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Cheese Ball

  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
  • 3 green onions, sliced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Decoration

  • 1 bell pepper stem
  • Twine or rubber bands (to shape pumpkin)

Instructions

  1. Soften the Cream Cheese: Spread the cream cheese in a medium mixing bowl and allow it to soften, making it easier to mix with the other ingredients.
  2. Mix Ingredients: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, and sliced green onions into the softened cream cheese. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
  3. Combine Thoroughly: Mix all the ingredients well until fully combined and evenly distributed for consistent flavor throughout.
  4. Form Cheese Ball: Shape the mixture into a ball using your hands, ensuring it’s compact and holds its form.
  5. Prepare Base Layer of Cheese: Lay out a piece of plastic wrap and sprinkle a small amount of shredded cheese onto the wrap—this will be used as the base to sit the cheese ball on to prevent sticking.
  6. Coat Cheese Ball: Press the remaining shredded cheddar cheese firmly onto all sides of the cheese ball until completely covered, enhancing both texture and appearance.
  7. Wrap Cheese Ball: Carefully wrap the coated cheese ball in the plastic wrap, securing it tightly.
  8. Shape Pumpkin: Use baker’s twine or rubber bands to tie three strands around the wrapped cheese ball, creating grooves that mimic the ridges of a pumpkin.
  9. Add Stem Decoration: Before serving, top the cheese ball with the bell pepper stem to complete the pumpkin look.

Notes

  • For best flavor and easier slicing, refrigerate the cheese ball for at least 6 hours or overnight before serving.
  • You can use different colored shredded cheeses or add spices to customize the flavor.
  • If baker’s twine is not available, use rubber bands carefully or skip this step for a simpler presentation.
  • Serve with crackers, veggies, or bread for a delightful appetizer.
  • Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to blend ingredients effectively.