Pumpkin Shaped Cheese Ball (Print View)
Creamy cheddar and herbs form a playful pumpkin shape—an eye-catching, delicious centerpiece for any party.
# What You'll Need:
→ Cheese Mixture
01 -
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
02 -
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
03 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 -
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, plus extra for dusting
05 -
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
06 -
Salt and pepper, to taste
07 -
1 to 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives, optional
08 -
1 bell pepper stem
→ Assembly
09 -
Plastic wrap
10 -
Twine or rubber bands
# Directions:
01 -
In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly mix together the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper if desired, salt, pepper, and herbs until uniformly combined.
02 -
Transfer the cheese mixture onto a large sheet of plastic wrap and gently shape it into a ball.
03 -
Wrap the cheese mixture tightly with the plastic wrap and use several pieces of twine or rubber bands to form vertical indentations, simulating pumpkin grooves.
04 -
Refrigerate for at least 2 to 4 hours until the mixture is firm and holds its shape.
05 -
Remove the twine or rubber bands and carefully unwrap the cheese ball. Dust the surface lightly with additional smoked paprika for color. Press the bell pepper stem into the top to resemble a pumpkin stem.
06 -
Present with crackers, pretzels, or fresh vegetable sticks as desired.
# Notes:
01 -
For clean grooves, ensure the cheese mixture is sufficiently chilled before removing the twine or rubber bands.