This Pumpkin Shaped Cheese Ball is a festive and creamy appetizer that’s perfect for Halloween parties or Thanksgiving gatherings. Easy to make and fun to serve, it adds a touch of seasonal charm to any holiday spread!
This Pumpkin Shaped Cheese Ball is the ultimate festive appetizer for Halloween or Thanksgiving!
Made with a creamy, savory cheese blend and shaped into an adorable pumpkin, it’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering, a spooky party, or a cozy holiday dinner, this charming cheese ball will be the star of your snack table—especially when served with crackers, pretzels, or fresh veggies.
Why You Will Love This Recipe!
🎃 Festive & Fun: It’s shaped like a pumpkin—perfect for adding seasonal charm to your Halloween or Thanksgiving table.
🧀 Creamy & Flavorful: Packed with rich cheese, herbs, and spices for a deliciously savory bite.
🍂 Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this recipe stress-free for any occasion.
👨👩👧👦 Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit with guests of all ages—pair with crackers, veggies, or pretzels.
✨ Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance to save time and let the flavors meld perfectly before serving.
Ingredients Needed
- Cream Cheese – Smooth, creamy base that holds everything together.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Adds bold, tangy flavor and rich cheesiness.
- Garlic Powder – Provides a savory, aromatic depth to the mixture.
- Onion Powder – Adds mild sweetness and balanced flavor notes.
- Smoked Paprika – Gives a hint of warmth and subtle smokiness.
- Chopped Pecans or Walnuts – Brings crunch and nutty texture to each bite.
- Fresh Parsley – Adds freshness, color, and a bright herbal finish.
- Crackers, Bread, or Veggies – Perfect dippers for your festive cheese ball.
How To Make Easy Pumpkin Shaped Cheese Ball
Step One: In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix until fully incorporated.
Step Two: Scoop the cheese mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap and shape it into a round ball. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Step Three: Roll the chilled cheese ball in chopped nuts, herbs, or additional paprika to resemble a pumpkin. Use a small piece of green bell pepper or chive as a “stem” on top. Place on a serving plate and surround with crackers, bread slices, or cut vegetables.
Pumpkin Shaped Cheeseball Recipe Tips
- Chill for Best Results: Refrigerate the cheese ball for at least 1 hour before serving so it firms up and holds its pumpkin shape perfectly.
- Get Creative with Coatings: Use chopped pecans, walnuts, or even paprika and herbs to create texture and mimic a pumpkin’s ridges.
- Make Ahead: This appetizer can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge—just wrap tightly in plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
- Decorative Stem Options: A small piece of green bell pepper, chive, or pretzel works beautifully as a pumpkin stem for an extra festive touch.
- Serve With Variety: Pair with an assortment of crackers, sliced bread, or fresh vegetables to make it easy for guests to enjoy.
Storing And Make Ahead Instructions
- Storing Instructions: Keep the pumpkin cheese ball tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3–4 days.
- Make-Ahead Instructions: You can assemble the cheese ball a day in advance to save time. Simply wrap tightly and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Pumpkin Shaped Cheese Ball Recipe Faqs
Can I make the cheese ball ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare and shape the cheese ball up to 2 days in advance. Keep it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
What nuts work best for coating the cheese ball? Chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds all work well. They add crunch and complement the creamy cheese flavor.
Can I make this cheese ball dairy-free? You can try using dairy-free cream cheese and shredded cheese alternatives. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still taste delicious.
How do I prevent the cheese ball from sticking to the plastic wrap? Lightly grease the plastic wrap or sprinkle a small amount of flour or chopped nuts before shaping. This makes it easier to remove and coat.
Can I freeze the cheese ball? It’s not recommended to freeze, as the texture of the cream cheese may change. It’s best enjoyed fresh within 2–3 days.
Can I use other herbs or spices for flavor? Absolutely! Try smoked paprika, chives, or rosemary to add extra flavor while still keeping the festive pumpkin look.
More Easy Halloween Recipes
- Air Fryer Dark Halloween Cookies
- Air Fryer Halloween Cupcakes
- Air Fryer Peeps Dip
- Fanta Jack O’Lantern Halloween Floats
- Air Fried Marshmallow Peeps
- Easy Air Fryer Halloween S’mores Dip
- Halloween Boo-falo Wing Dip Recipe
- Halloween Black Cat Oreo Cookies
- Easy Halloween Spider Hot Dogs
- Halloween Hot Cocoa Whipped Cream
Don’t Forget To Pin!
Share Your Creations! Are you active on Facebook? Join our Air Fryer Recipes Group, where hundreds of thousands of Air Fryer enthusiasts gather and share your photos! I’m always thrilled to see what you’ve made. For those on Instagram, don’t forget to tag me @forktospoon – I can’t wait to admire your culinary adventures!
Pumpkin Shaped Cheese Ball for Halloween or Thanksgiving
Description
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, optional
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Crackers, bread, or veggies for serving,
Instructions
- In a large bowl, stir together the 8 ounces cream cheese, 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and ½ teaspoon smoked paprika until smooth and fully combined.
- Scoop the cheese mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap and gently form it into a round pumpkin shape. Wrap tightly and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Roll the chilled cheese ball in ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts, herbs, or extra paprika to give it a pumpkin-like appearance.
- Top with a small piece of green bell pepper or a chive to serve as the “stem.”
- Place the finished pumpkin on a serving platter and surround it with crackers, bread slices, or fresh vegetables for a festive presentation.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Spoon
- Saran Wrap
Nutrition
Share this recipe
We can’t wait to see what you’ve made! Mention @forktospoon or tag #forktospoon!
