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Pumpkin-Shaped Cheeseball Recipe

Pumpkin-Shaped Cheeseball Recipe
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★★★★★

5 from 15 reviews

This fun and festive Pumpkin-Shaped Cheeseball is a perfect appetizer for fall gatherings or Halloween parties. Creamy, tangy, and packed with sharp cheddar and zesty ranch seasoning, this cheeseball is shaped and decorated to look like a pumpkin, making it a delightful centerpiece for any celebration.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Mixture

  • 8 ounce block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 8 ounce tub vegetable cream cheese
  • 2 Tablespoons Hidden Valley Spicy Ranch mix (or regular ranch)
  • 3 green onions, sliced (green parts only; can use whites if desired)
  • 1 red pepper, finely diced (save the stem)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided use)

Coating and Decoration

  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for coating)
  • 1 red pepper stem (for decoration)
  • Plastic wrap
  • 4 large and wide rubber bands or kitchen twine (for shaping)

Instructions

  1. Mix the cream cheeses: Using an electric or stand mixer, combine the softened 8 ounce block cream cheese and the 8 ounce tub of vegetable cream cheese until smooth and well blended.
  2. Add seasoning and mix-ins: Stir in 2 tablespoons of Hidden Valley Spicy Ranch mix, the sliced green parts of 3 green onions, the finely diced red pepper (except the stem), and 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mixing until evenly incorporated.
  3. Prepare plastic wrap base: Lay out a large sheet of plastic wrap on your work surface to prepare for shaping the cheeseball.
  4. Create a cheddar cheese bed: Sprinkle approximately 1/4 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the plastic wrap; this will help the cheeseball hold its shape.
  5. Form the cheeseball: Place the cheese mixture on top of the cheddar bed on the plastic wrap and start shaping it into a round ball.
  6. Coat the cheeseball: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top and sides of the formed cheeseball. Use your hands to press the cheese into the surface for full coverage.
  7. Wrap tightly: Wrap the cheeseball tightly with at least two layers of cling wrap to secure the shape and cheese coating. Ensure it’s wrapped firmly with no gaps.
  8. Shape with rubber bands: Place four large, wide rubber bands around the wrapped cheeseball, spacing them evenly to create pumpkin-like indentations. Double wrap each rubber band if needed to get distinct grooves. Alternatively, use kitchen twine to make these indentations.
  9. Chill the cheeseball: Refrigerate the cheeseball for a minimum of two hours, preferably overnight. This chilling period enhances flavors and helps the pumpkin shape set firmly.
  10. Unwrap carefully: When ready to serve, remove the rubber bands carefully to avoid deforming the shape. Then gently peel away the cling wrap from the cheeseball.
  11. Decorate the pumpkin: Insert the saved red pepper stem into the top center of the cheeseball to mimic a pumpkin stem. Gently push it in so it stays securely in place.
  12. Serve: Present the pumpkin-shaped cheeseball with your favorite buttery crackers for guests to enjoy as a tasty, festive appetizer.

Notes

  • For best flavor and shape, refrigerate the cheeseball overnight.
  • If you prefer less spice, substitute the spicy ranch mix with regular Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning.
  • Be careful when removing rubber bands to maintain the pumpkin indentations.
  • The red pepper stem adds a charming, natural touch to complete the pumpkin look.
  • Use plastic wrap generously to prevent cheese mixture from sticking and to help hold the shape.
  • This cheeseball can be made a day ahead and refrigerated until serving time.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin cheeseball, fall appetizer, Halloween party food, ranch cheeseball, festive cheese ball

Find it online: https://zarameals.com/pumpkin-shaped-cheeseball-recipe/