Description
This Pumpkin Cheese Ball is the ultimate fall party appetizer. Creamy cream cheese and sharp cheddar are blended with ranch seasoning and spices, shaped into a pumpkin, coated in crushed crackers, and finished with a bell pepper stem for a festive look. Perfect for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or cozy fall gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Pumpkin Cheese Ball:
- 16 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 packet homemade ranch seasoning (see below)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup crushed cheese-flavored crackers or nacho chips
- 1 small bell pepper stem (for the pumpkin “stem”)
Homemade Ranch Seasoning (optional):
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon dried dill
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried chives
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Mix the Cheese Base: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Stir in cheddar, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika until well combined.
- Shape Into a Ball: Transfer mixture to plastic wrap and form into a ball. Wrap tightly and refrigerate at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Add Pumpkin Ridges: Rewrap loosely, then use twine or rubber bands to create ridges. Chill 30 minutes more.
- Coat the Cheese Ball: Remove wrap and roll in crushed crackers until evenly coated.
- Add the Stem & Serve: Place a bell pepper stem on top and serve with crackers, breadsticks, or veggies.
Notes
- Chill thoroughly before shaping for best results.
- Use plastic wrap and twine to achieve pumpkin ridges.
- Can be made 1–2 days in advance; coat with crackers just before serving.
- Variation: Make a sweet version with pumpkin puree, graham crackers, and pumpkin spice.
- Serves 8–10 as an appetizer.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling)
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice with crackers
Keywords: Pumpkin Cheese Ball, Fall Appetizer, Halloween Cheese Ball, Thanksgiving Appetizer, Pumpkin Shaped Cheese Ball