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Mini Pumpkin Cheese Balls

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Mini Pumpkin Cheese Balls are festive, bite-sized appetizers made with a creamy cheese blend and shaped like tiny pumpkins. Perfect for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or any fall gathering, they’re flavorful, fun, and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pretzel sticks (cut into small pieces, for stems)
  • Fresh parsley or chives (for garnish leaves)
  • Optional: crushed nuts or crushed cheese crackers (for coating)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and fully combined.
  2. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up the mixture for shaping.
  3. Once chilled, use your hands or a small scoop to form the mixture into 1 to 2-inch balls.
  4. Use a toothpick or butter knife to press vertical lines around the balls to resemble pumpkins.
  5. Insert a small piece of pretzel stick into the top of each ball to form the stem.
  6. Add a small piece of parsley or chive next to the pretzel for a leafy garnish.
  7. Optionally, roll some cheese balls in crushed nuts or cheese crackers for added texture.
  8. Chill until ready to serve. Serve with crackers, pretzels, or veggies.

Notes

Use food-safe gloves or lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking when shaping.Insert pretzels and herbs just before serving to keep them crisp and fresh.Use freshly shredded cheese for better flavor and consistency.Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.Great served with a variety of dippers like crackers or veggie sticks.

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