Name: Pumpkin Cheese Ball
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: PT-489164H24M14S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened; 1 tablespoon bottled hot pepper sauce; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic; 2 cups finely shredded yellow Cheddar cheese; 1 stem from a bell pepper; Crackers, for serving

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This pumpkin cheese ball is a festive and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for fall gatherings, Halloween parties, or Thanksgiving celebrations. Shaped like a pumpkin and packed with a creamy, cheesy filling, it’s as fun to make as it is delicious to eat. Serve it with crackers for an easy party centerpiece that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A creative, festive appetizer that looks like a pumpkin
Creamy, savory, and slightly spicy flavor
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Can be prepared ahead of time for parties
Pairs perfectly with crackers, breadsticks, or fresh veggies

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon bottled hot pepper sauce
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
2 cups finely shredded yellow Cheddar cheese
1 stem from a bell pepper
Crackers for serving

Directions

In a food processor, combine cream cheese, hot pepper sauce, paprika, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
Add 1 1/2 cups of shredded Cheddar cheese and process until the cheese is finely chopped but still visible.
On a large piece of plastic wrap, sprinkle about 3 tablespoons of the remaining shredded cheese into a 4-inch pile. Place a rounded scoop of the cheese mixture on top.
Sprinkle the mound with the rest of the shredded cheese.
Wrap the plastic wrap tightly around the mixture, shaping it into a ball. Use an additional piece of plastic wrap if needed for a tight seal.
Wrap 4 wide rubber bands around the cheese ball, spacing them evenly to create pumpkin-like indentations. Double wrap the bands if deeper grooves are needed.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, or until firm.
Before serving, remove rubber bands and plastic wrap. Press a bell pepper stem onto the top to create the pumpkin look.
Serve with crackers.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 servings.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 3 hours
Total time: 3 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Swap Cheddar cheese for a mix of Colby Jack or Pepper Jack for added flavor.
Roll the cheese ball in finely chopped nuts for extra crunch.
Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives for more depth.
Make smaller, mini pumpkin cheese balls for individual servings.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freeze wrapped cheese ball (without the pepper stem) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Do not heat, as this is best served cold.

FAQs

Can I make the pumpkin cheese ball ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

What can I serve with this cheese ball besides crackers?

Try pretzels, breadsticks, pita chips, apple slices, or raw veggies.

Can I make this cheese ball without a food processor?

Yes, mix the ingredients by hand with a sturdy spoon, though the texture may be less smooth.

How do I get deep pumpkin ridges?

Use wide rubber bands and double-wrap them if necessary to create deeper indentations.

Can I make this cheese ball spicier?

Yes, add more hot pepper sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

What type of cheese works best for this recipe?

Sharp Cheddar gives a bold flavor, but you can use mild Cheddar or a cheese blend.

Can I use roasted garlic instead of raw?

Yes, roasted garlic will add a milder, sweeter flavor.

How do I keep the cheese ball from sticking to the plastic wrap?

Chilling it first for a short time before final shaping can make wrapping easier.

Can I use a different topping instead of shredded cheese?

Yes, try crushed nacho chips, chopped nuts, or finely diced herbs.

How long should I chill the cheese ball?

At least 3 hours is recommended, but overnight chilling will give the best flavor and firmness.

Conclusion

This pumpkin cheese ball is a show-stopping appetizer that’s as festive as it is delicious. With its creamy, cheesy filling and fun pumpkin shape, it’s perfect for seasonal parties and holiday spreads. Easy to prepare and versatile with flavors, this cheese ball is sure to impress your guests.