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Easy Creamy Pumpkin Cheeseball with Pretzel Stem

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.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180

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

Method
 

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Carefully insert a few pretzel sticks into the top of the cheeseball to create the stem.
  6. Lightly dust the cheeseball with paprika for a more vibrant color and added flavor (optional).
  7. Serve immediately with crackers, vegetables, or pretzels.

Nutrition

Calories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 7gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 60mgSugar: 1gVitamin A: 450IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 0.5mg

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.
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