Can I make this Pumpkin Cheese Ball ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make it up to two days in advance. Just wrap it tightly and keep it chilled until ready to serve. Add the coating and stem right before setting it out.

Can I freeze a cheese ball?

Technically yes, but it’s best fresh. Freezing can change the texture, making it less creamy once thawed.

What can I serve with it?

Crackers are classic, but try pita chips, pretzels, or even apple slices for a sweet-savory combo.

Pumpkin Cheese Ball Bliss: 4 Steps to Fall Magic

Description

This Pumpkin Cheese Ball is the ultimate fall appetizer—creamy, savory, and shaped like a pumpkin! Made with cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and a smoky hint of paprika, it’s a show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday table. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Halloween, or any cozy autumn gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

16 oz cream cheese, softened
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup sour cream
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika (plus extra for coating)
¼ tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup crushed cheese crackers or finely chopped pecans (for coating)
1 pretzel rod or bell pepper stem (for the pumpkin “stem”)
Fresh parsley leaves (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, cheddar, sour cream, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Beat with a hand mixer for 1–2 minutes until smooth and fluffy.
Shape and Chill:
Scoop the mixture onto plastic wrap, form into a ball, and wrap tightly. Chill for at least 2 hours or overnight until firm.
Coat and Shape:
Roll the chilled cheese ball in crushed crackers or chopped pecans until evenly coated. Use kitchen twine or rubber bands to lightly press around it, creating pumpkin-like ridges.
Add the Stem and Garnish:
Insert a pretzel rod or bell pepper stem on top for the “pumpkin stem.” Garnish with parsley leaves around the base for a fresh look.
Serve:
Serve chilled with pretzels, crackers, or sliced veggies.

Notes

For best texture, let cream cheese soften fully before mixing.
You can make this recipe up to 2 days in advance—store wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator.
Smoked paprika adds that perfect orange hue and cozy fall flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: No-cook, refrigerated
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/12 of cheese ball
Calories: 230 kcal
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 290 mg
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 10 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 3 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 8 g
Cholesterol: 50 mg