Pumpkin Shaped Cheese Ball (Printable Version)
# What You'll Need:
→ Cheese mixture
01 -
225 grams cream cheese, softened
02 -
115 grams sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
03 -
5 milliliters Worcestershire sauce
04 -
2 grams garlic powder
05 -
2 grams onion powder
06 -
2 grams smoked paprika
07 -
1 gram black pepper
→ Vegetables and garnishes
08 -
15 grams green onions, finely chopped
09 -
15 grams red bell pepper, finely chopped
10 -
30 grams crushed nacho-flavored tortilla chips
11 -
1 broccoli stalk or large pretzel rod (for stem)
12 -
Crackers and assorted vegetables for serving
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper with a sturdy spoon or electric mixer until smooth and uniform.
02 -
Gently fold the finely chopped green onions and red bell pepper into the cheese mixture until evenly distributed.
03 -
Place a large piece of plastic wrap on the countertop, spoon the cheese mixture in the center, then gather and twist the edges to form a ball. Shape the ball gently to mimic pumpkin ridges.
04 -
Refrigerate the wrapped cheese ball for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and shape to firm up.
05 -
Carefully unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in crushed nacho-flavored tortilla chips until completely coated, creating a textured pumpkin-like surface.
06 -
Insert a cleaned broccoli stalk or pretzel rod into the top center as a stem, arrange on a platter with crackers and vegetables, and serve immediately.
# Helpful Notes:
01 -
Chilling the cheese ball overnight enhances flavor development and firmness for easier shaping.