Description

This Pumpkin-Shaped Cheese Ball with Crackers is festive, flavorful, and always the centerpiece of a fall gathering. Creamy cheese blended with smoky spices and crunchy pecans is shaped into a pumpkin for the ultimate autumn appetizer.

Ingredients

2 packs (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
½ cup finely chopped green onions
¾ cup finely chopped pecans or crushed cheese crackers (for coating)
1 clean green bell pepper stem
Crackers or vegetable sticks, for serving

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Instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, green onions, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Transfer mixture onto plastic wrap, shape into a ball, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for 2 hours.
Rewrap with fresh plastic, then use rubber bands or twine to create ridges for a pumpkin look. Chill for 1 hour.
Remove wrap and roll cheese ball in chopped pecans or crushed crackers to coat.
Insert the bell pepper stem on top to resemble a pumpkin.
Place on a platter with crackers or vegetables and serve.

Notes

For best results, use room-temperature cream cheese for smooth blending. Chill thoroughly before shaping. Make ahead up to 5 days in the fridge or freeze (uncoated) for up to 1 month. Try variations with herbs, spice, or nut-free coatings for a fun twist.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American