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Pumpkin Shaped Cheese Ball: The Ultimate Make-Ahead Fall Appetizer

A festive pumpkin cheese ball covered in shredded orange cheese, topped with a real pumpkin stem and red pepper piece.
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Create a stunning, pumpkin-shaped cheese ball that is perfect for Halloween parties or Thanksgiving feasts. This easy, savory appetizer uses sharp cheddar and cream cheese, and you can prepare it ahead of time for stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded, divided
  • 1/2 cup green onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ranch seasoning mix (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 1 small orange or red bell pepper (for the stem)
  • Assorted crackers or vegetable sticks for serving

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onion, and ranch seasoning, if using. Mix until completely smooth and blended.
  2. Shape the cheese mixture into a round ball. Place the ball onto a sheet of plastic wrap.
  3. Use the remaining 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese to coat the outside of the ball evenly.
  4. To create the pumpkin shape, take four long strips of twine or sturdy string. Wrap them around the cheese ball, positioning them vertically from top to bottom, spaced evenly apart, to mimic pumpkin ribs. Tie the twine securely at the top and bottom.
  5. Wrap the entire cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 2 days, to allow it to firm up and hold its shape.
  6. Before serving, carefully remove the twine. Cut the bell pepper into a small, short piece to resemble a stem and insert it into the top center of the cheese ball.
  7. Arrange the finished pumpkin cheese ball on a serving platter surrounded by crackers and vegetables.

Notes

  • You can make this appetizer up to two days in advance; just keep it wrapped tightly in the refrigerator.
  • For a deeper orange color, you can mix 1/4 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice (the savory kind, not the sweet baking kind) into the cheese mixture, or use a small amount of orange food coloring if you want a brighter look.
  • Serve this crowd pleasing appetizer with sturdy crackers, pretzel crisps, or sliced cucumbers and carrots.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://eatableempress.com/pumpkin-cheese-ball-recipe-fall-appetizer/