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Pumpkin Cheese Ball

The Pumpkin Cheese Ball is a festive and flavorful appetizer perfect for fall gatherings, Halloween parties, or Thanksgiving celebrations. Shaped like a pumpkin and bursting with creamy, cheesy goodness, this dish is not only delicious but also a showstopper centerpiece for your table.
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Equipment

  • - Mixing bowl
  • - Rubber spatula
  • - Plastic wrap
  • - Small knife or toothpick
  • - Serving platter

Ingredients
  

  • - 16 oz 2 blocks cream cheese, softened
  • - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • - 1 packet 1 oz ranch seasoning mix
  • - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • - 1/4 tsp smoked paprika optional, for extra flavor
  • - 1/2 cup finely crushed cheddar cheese crackers for coating
  • - Pretzel rod or celery stick for the pumpkin stem
  • - Fresh parsley leaves for garnish, optional

Instructions
 

  • **Mix the Cheese Base:** In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix thoroughly until well combined.
  • **Shape into a Ball:** Transfer the cheese mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Use the wrap to shape it into a round ball. Twist the plastic wrap tightly around the ball to hold its shape, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.
  • **Create the Pumpkin Look:** Once the cheese ball is firm, remove the plastic wrap. Roll the cheese ball in the finely crushed cheddar cheese crackers until evenly coated. Use a small knife or toothpick to create vertical lines around the cheese ball to mimic the ridges of a pumpkin.
  • **Add the Stem:** Insert a pretzel rod or celery stick into the top center of the cheese ball to resemble a pumpkin stem. Garnish with parsley leaves, if desired.
  • **Serve:** Place the cheese ball on a serving platter surrounded by crackers, veggies, or pretzels, and serve chilled.