Pumpkin Cheese Ball Recipe

Turn your cheese ball into a festive pumpkin with this easy, savory recipe perfect for Halloween parties.

15 min Serves 8 Medium Snacks

Our own summary of the original by Lisa J. — the full post and photos live at acountrygirlslife.com.

This pumpkin-shaped cheese ball combines cream cheese, shredded cheddar, ranch seasoning, and green onions for a savory appetizer. Shaped with twine and topped with a bell pepper stem, it's a fun and delicious Halloween centerpiece. Serve with crackers and pretzels for dipping.

Directions

Soften 16 ounces of cream cheese in a medium mixing bowl by stirring and spreading it around.

Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheese (sharp cheddar works well for color), 2 tablespoons of Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning, 3 sliced green onions, and salt and pepper to taste. For extra heat, add a dash of paprika or cayenne pepper. Stir until everything is evenly combined.

Shape the mixture into a smooth round ball. Lay out plastic wrap and sprinkle some shredded cheese in the center, then place the cheese ball on top.

Press the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese onto the sides of the ball until it is fully coated.

Wrap the cheese ball loosely in plastic wrap—leave it a bit loose so you can shape it in the next step.

Double-wrap the cheese ball with baker's twine to create a pumpkin-like shape. Refrigerate for 6 hours to set the shape.

Before serving, cut the stem from a bell pepper. Remove the chilled cheese ball from the fridge, press the stem into the top, and place it on a large cutting board or charcuterie tray. Serve with crackers and pretzels.