Looking for a show-stopping appetizer that’s perfect for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving, or Halloween parties? This Pumpkin Cheese Ball Recipe is everything!
It’s savory, creamy, and shaped like an actual pumpkin! With ranch seasoning and sharp cheddar, it’s bursting with flavor and festive vibes. It’s also surprisingly easy to make!
Whether you’re hosting friends or bringing a dish to your next fall party, this pumpkin-shaped cheese ball with crackers will be the talk of the snack table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 bell pepper stem
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded, divided (Tip: Let 3½ cups come to room temp for easy mixing.)
- 1 oz packet Ranch seasoning mix
This cheese ball shaped like a pumpkin is the ultimate fall party trick. It’s make-ahead friendly, super flavorful, and doubles as a conversation piece. Plus there’s no baking required!
How to Make a Pumpkin Cheese Ball
These fall-themed snacks are simple, fun, and perfect for gatherings.
Step 1: Mix the base
In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat together the cream cheese, 3½ cups of cheddar, and ranch seasoning until smooth and fully combined.
Step 2: Shape into a ball
Lay a sheet of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Place the cheese mixture in the center, wrap tightly, and mold it into a ball shape.
Step 3: Tie the pumpkin shape
Lay out four strands of baker’s twine like a star. Place the wrapped ball in the center and tie the twine snugly around it in sections to create the ridges of a pumpkin. Chill for at least 4 hours.
Step 4: Finish and serve
Unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese. Insert a bell pepper stem in the center. If needed, press a fork or spoon handle into the sides to enhance the pumpkin grooves.
Tips & Variations
- No baker’s twine? Use clean rubber bands or chill it round and press in ridges with a utensil handle later.
- Swap in smoked gouda or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
- Want to make it spicy? Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Add chopped bacon bits for extra indulgence!
Perfect For:
- Friendsgiving and Potlucks
- Halloween Parties
- Thanksgiving Appetizers
- Fall Charcuterie Boards
- Football Sunday Snacks
📸 Don’t Forget the Photo Op!
This cutie looks just like a pumpkin—so snap a pic before everyone digs in! Tag your festive appetizer moments with #BiteSizedFun on Instagram. We’d love to see your cheesy creations!
More Fun Appetizer Recipes You’ll Love:
- Coming soon…
Whip this up and wow your guests with a little fall flavor and a whole lot of charm. Who knew easy cheese ball recipes could be this cute?
One More Thing!
This recipe is part of our collection of easy dessert recipes. Check it out!
Pumpkin Cheese Ball
Equipment
- Measuring cups, large bowl and electric mixer or stand mixer, silicone spoon, plastic wrap, bakers twine
Ingredients
- 2 – 8 oz packages cream cheese softened
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese – finely shredded divided (3 ½ cups should be room temperature for easier mixing)
- 1 oz packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 bell pepper stem
Instructions
- In a large bowl or bowl of a stand mixer, beat together the softened cream cheese, 3 ½ cups of the cheddar cheese and the ranch seasoning, until well combined.
- Spread a sheet of plastic wrap out, then place the mixture in the center in a big ball form. Wrap the plastic wrap around the mixture, forming it into a round ball shape as you wrap. You can form it as you’re wrapping to make it easier and less messy.
- Cut 4 pieces of bakers twine and arrange them on a surface as shown in image “process 8”. Place the wrapped cheeseball in the center, then tie two ends of a strand together tightly, then another two and so on, to make the pumpkin shape.
- Chill for at least 4 hours.
- Before serving, bring the remaining ½ cup of cheese to room temperature.
- Unwrap the cheeseball, coat in the remaining finely shredded cheese. Insert the bell pepper stem into the top of the cheeseball. NOTE: If the pumpkin shape isn’t as defined after coating, press the handle of a fork or spoon into the grooves a bit.
