Pumpkin shaped cheeseball
This recipe creates a festive, pumpkin-shaped cheeseball, perfect for holiday gatherings. It combines softened cream cheeses with sharp cheddar and a blend of warm spices like paprika, cumin, and cayenne for a savory, flavorful spread. Easy to prepare, it requires chilling to firm up before serving, offering a delightful appetizer that's both visually appealing and delicious when paired with crackers or vegetables.
Equipment
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl
- 1 Spatula or wooden spoon
- 1 Measuring Spoons
- 1 Plastic Wrap
- 1 Serving Platter
Ingredients
Main
- * 1 8 oz package plain cream cheese softened
- * 1 8 oz carton chive and onion cream cheese
- * 8 ounce sharp cheddar cheese shredded, divided
- * 2 teaspoon paprika
- * 2 teaspoon cumin
- * 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Ensure both packages of cream cheese are softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the plain cream cheese, chive and onion cream cheese, and ¾ of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
- Add the paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture.
- Using a spatula or wooden spoon, mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined and smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.
- On a clean surface or using plastic wrap, shape the cheese mixture into a round ball.
- To create the pumpkin shape, gently press the sides of the ball with the back of a knife or kitchen twine to form vertical indentations, mimicking pumpkin ridges.
- Evenly coat the entire surface of the shaped cheeseball with the remaining ¼ shredded sharp cheddar cheese, gently pressing it to adhere.
- Wrap the cheeseball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Just before serving, remove from the refrigerator and, for a complete pumpkin look, insert a small pretzel stick or a piece of green bell pepper stem into the top.
- Serve the pumpkin-shaped cheeseball with an assortment of crackers, bagel chips, or fresh vegetable sticks.
Notes
Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free mixture. This allows for even incorporation of other cheeses and spices. For best texture and flavor, shred your own sharp cheddar cheese; pre-shredded often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the final consistency. When shaping the cheeseball, use plastic wrap to help compress and form a tight, even sphere, then use the back of a knife or string to create the pumpkin ridges. For an authentic touch, add a small pretzel stick or a bell pepper stem to the top just before serving. Chill thoroughly for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and the ball to firm up, making it easier to serve. Serve with an assortment of crackers, vegetable sticks, or pita chips.