Easy Pumpkin Cheese Ball – Creamy, Perfect, and Ready in 15 Minutes!
Pumpkin Cheese Ball Recipe: The Perfect Thanksgiving Appetizer
What’s Thanksgiving without a fun, festive appetizer?
Every year, my aunt made this adorable pumpkin-shaped cheese ball. It was always the star of our holiday table, and everyone loved it.
Creamy, savory, and spiced to perfection—it’s as tasty as it is cute! The pumpkin shape makes it festive, and it’s so easy to prepare.
This recipe is super simple and quick to make. With just a few ingredients, you can create a show-stopping appetizer that your guests will rave about.
A little creativity goes a long way with this treat. Let’s add charm and flavor to your Thanksgiving feast!
If you’re looking for a festive appetizer that’s both easy to make and guaranteed to impress your guests, this Pumpkin Cheese Ball is exactly what you need. Made with a blend of sharp cheddar and creamy cheese, this appetizer delivers rich, tangy flavors that everyone will love. Shaped to resemble a pumpkin, it’s the perfect addition to any fall gathering, from cozy family dinners to lively Halloween or Thanksgiving parties.
- 16 oz cream cheese ((2 blocks, at room temperature))
- 3 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded (at room temperature))
- 1 oz ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup crushed pecans ((optional))
- ½ cup finely shredded cheddar cheese ((optional))
- 1 bell pepper stem ((for decoration))
- Step 1: Mix the Cheese Ball Ingredients
Allow the cream cheese and shredded cheddar to come to room temperature. In the bowl of a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and ranch seasoning mix. Mix until smooth and fully combined.
Pro Tip: Room temperature ingredients blend more smoothly, giving the cheese ball a perfect texture. - Step 2: Shape the Cheese Ball
Transfer the cheese mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Use the plastic wrap to form the mixture into a ball shape. Wrap 3-4 thick rubber bands around the plastic-wrapped cheese ball to create indentations resembling a pumpkin. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up.
- Step 3: Decorate with Toppings
For a brown pumpkin, press crushed pecans onto the surface of the cheese ball before serving. For an orange pumpkin, press finely shredded cheddar cheese onto the ball. Add the bell pepper stem on top to complete the pumpkin look.
- Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve with crackers and sliced bell peppers for a tasty and festive appetizer.
Servings 10
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 345kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 31g48%
- Saturated Fat 18g90%
- Cholesterol 97mg33%
- Sodium 639mg27%
- Total Carbohydrate 4g2%
- Protein 14g29%
- Vitamin A 1062 IU
- Calcium 370 mg
* Nutrition information is automatically calculated using generic ingredients, and is an estimate not a guarantee. For more accurate results, please refer to the labels on your ingredients at home.
Freezer-Friendly: No
Storage: Can be made several days ahead and stored in the fridge.
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on exact ingredients used.
Key Points Recap:
- Blend cream cheese, cheddar, and ranch seasoning for a flavorful mix.
- Shape and chill the cheese ball to hold its pumpkin shape.
- Decorate with pecans or cheddar for a festive look.
For more fun and festive recipes, follow me on Pinterest for daily inspiration!
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