Description
Adorable mini pumpkin-shaped cheese balls made with a creamy, savory cheese mixture. Coated in crushed cheese crackers and finished with a pretzel stick stem, these festive bites are as tasty as they are fun—perfect for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or any autumn gathering.
Ingredients
Cheese Ball:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Coating and Garnish:
- 1 cup crushed cheese crackers (like Cheez-Its or Goldfish)
- 12 small pretzel sticks
- Fresh parsley leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, green onions, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth. Scoop mixture into tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls.
- Roll each ball in crushed cheese crackers until fully coated. Use a toothpick to press vertical lines around each ball to resemble pumpkin ridges.
- Insert a pretzel stick in the center as the “pumpkin stem.” Garnish with a small parsley leaf next to the stem for a pumpkin look.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- These can be made up to 24 hours in advance—store covered in the fridge until serving.
- Try mixing in crumbled bacon or diced jalapeños for extra flavor.
- Serve with crackers, pretzels, or veggie sticks for dipping.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Snack
- Method: No-Cook / Chill
- Cuisine: American
