Print

Orange Cheddar Pumpkin Cheese Ball

orange cheddar pumpkin cheese ball - featured image
Print Recipe

This festive cheese ball blends sharp cheddar, tangy cream cheese, and warm spices into a creamy, savory appetizer shaped like a pumpkin. It’s quick to make, perfect for fall gatherings, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (8 oz) sharp orange cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for color)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons green onion, finely chopped
  • 1 pretzel stick or bell pepper stem (for pumpkin stem)
  • Optional garnishes: fresh parsley or chives, sliced red pepper, extra cheddar

Instructions

  1. Shred the cheddar cheese if not already shredded.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Beat with a hand mixer or sturdy spoon until mostly combined and creamy.
  3. Add Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, turmeric (if using), kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and evenly colored. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. Fold in the finely chopped green onion.
  5. Scoop the cheese mixture onto a large piece of plastic wrap or parchment. Wrap tightly and shape into a ball, then gently flatten to create a squat pumpkin shape.
  6. Refrigerate the wrapped cheese ball for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight, to firm up.
  7. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and place on a serving plate. Use a small knife or butter knife to gently score 6-8 vertical lines from top to bottom to mimic pumpkin ridges.
  8. Press a pretzel stick or bell pepper stem into the top center for the pumpkin stem. Garnish with parsley, chives, or sliced peppers if desired.
  9. Let the cheese ball sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving for easier spreading. Serve with crackers, pretzels, or veggie sticks.

Notes

For best results, use room temperature cream cheese and freshly shredded cheddar. Chill thoroughly before shaping and serving. Customize with extra spices, nuts, or diced peppers as desired. To make gluten-free, omit the pretzel stem or use a gluten-free pretzel. Cheese ball can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored tightly wrapped in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheese ball, pumpkin cheese ball, fall appetizer, party appetizer, cheddar cheese ball, Halloween appetizer, Thanksgiving appetizer, vegetarian appetizer, make ahead, easy cheese ball

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/orange-cheddar-pumpkin-cheese-ball-recipe-easy-fall-party-appetizer/