Pumpkin Cheeseball
Looking for a spooky and delicious appetizer to wow your guests this Halloween? This Pumpkin Cheeseball is not only incredibly easy to make, but it's also a showstopper on any Halloween buffet. Imagine a creamy, savory cheese dip shaped like a pumpkin, complete with a pretzel stem. Both adults and kids will love this fun and festive treat.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika plus extra for dusting
- Pinch cayenne pepper optional
- pretzel sticks for stem
- orange food coloring or paprika for color, optional
- crackers, vegetables, or pretzels for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, green onions, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) until well combined.
- If desired, add a few drops of orange food coloring or additional paprika to achieve a pumpkin-like hue. Stir until the color is evenly distributed.
- On a large piece of plastic wrap, form the cheese mixture into a round, flattened ball. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the cheeseball to firm up.
- Remove the cheeseball from the refrigerator. Unwrap and place on a serving plate. Use a butter knife or spoon to create indentations from top to bottom, mimicking the ridges of a pumpkin.
- Carefully insert a few pretzel sticks into the top of the cheeseball to create the stem.
- Lightly dust the cheeseball with paprika for a more vibrant color and added flavor (optional).
- Serve immediately with crackers, vegetables, or pretzels.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or some finely chopped jalapenos. You can also use a different blend of cheeses to customize the flavor. For a vegan version, use plant-based cream cheese and shredded cheese alternatives.
Soften the cream cheese fully before mixing for a smooth texture. Chilling the cheeseball thoroughly is essential for shaping and holding its form. Get creative with decorations such as black olive slices or pretzel pieces to create a spooky face on your pumpkin.