Ultimate Pumpkin Cheese Ball: The Perfect Fall Appetizer

Try this vibrant Pumpkin Cheese Ball, a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer perfect for fall gatherings.

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Prep Time 20

Chilling Time 1

Total Time 1 20

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Appetizers

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Cheese Mixture

8 oz Cream Cheese Provides a silky, rich base that binds the flavors together.
1 cup Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese Adds bold, tangy depth and enhances flavor.
1/4 cup Minced Onion Introduces sweetness and a subtle bite.
1/4 cup Salsa Infuses moisture and bright flavor notes.
1 tsp Ground Cumin Provides an earthy warmth and enhances the fall flavor profile.
to taste Cayenne Pepper Adds a spicy kick; optional for those who prefer milder flavors.
1/2 tsp Garlic Powder Enhances overall savory depth without overpowering the dish.
to taste Salt Essential for flavor balance.
to taste Pepper Essential for flavor balance.

For the Coating

1 cup Crushed Nacho-Flavored Tortilla Chips Coats the cheese ball, mimicking a pumpkin’s texture while adding crunch.

For Presentation

1 piece Small Bell Pepper Stem Serves as the 'pumpkin' stem, enhancing the visual appeal.

For Serving

to taste Crackers or Vegetables Ideal accompaniments to scoop and enjoy the cheese ball.

Equipment

Mixing Bowl
Electric mixer
spatula
plastic wrap

Method

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Blend until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
Mix in ¼ cup of minced onion, ¼ cup of salsa, and 1 teaspoon of ground cumin. Optionally, add a pinch of cayenne pepper and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Scoop the mixture out and form it into a rough ball shape using your hands. If too soft, chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes.
Roll the cheese ball in 1 cup of crushed nacho-flavored tortilla chips, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
Shape the ball into a more defined pumpkin shape, creating ridges and inserting a small bell pepper stem.
Wrap the shaped pumpkin cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Unwrap and serve on a platter with an assortment of sturdy crackers and fresh vegetables.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 8gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure to chill the mixture before shaping for better consistency. Wrap tightly for storage to keep freshness.

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