Description
This Pumpkin Shaped Cheese Ball is a festive and creamy appetizer made with ranch-flavored cheese filling, coated in cheddar, and shaped like a pumpkin with a red pepper stem. A fun and delicious centerpiece for Thanksgiving, Halloween, or fall gatherings.
Ingredients
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8 oz block cream cheese, softened
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8 oz tub vegetable cream cheese
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2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix (spicy or regular)
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3 green onions, sliced
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1 red pepper, finely diced (reserve stem)
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2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
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Plastic wrap + rubber bands or kitchen twine
Instructions
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Beat cream cheese and vegetable cream cheese until smooth.
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Mix in ranch seasoning, green onions, red pepper, and 1 cup cheddar.
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Spread plastic wrap, sprinkle with cheddar, then place cheese mixture on top. Cover with remaining cheddar and wrap tightly.
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Use rubber bands or twine around the wrapped cheese ball to create pumpkin-like ridges.
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Chill at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor and firmness.
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Remove wrap and bands, press the red pepper stem into the top.
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Serve with crackers, breadsticks, or veggie sticks.
Notes
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Freshly shredded cheddar works best since it sticks better than pre-shredded.
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Wrap the red pepper stem in a damp towel and refrigerate until ready to use.
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The cheese ball tastes even better when chilled overnight.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American