10/14/2026
Crisp air, changing leaves, and Halloween decor everywhere—fall is officially here! And no autumn gathering is complete without a little pumpkin flair.
Enter this festive pumpkin cheese ball! Simple to make and fun to serve, it’s a total crowd-pleaser whether you're hosting, visiting friends, or snacking at home.
Love it for Halloween? Don't forget to bring it back out for Thanksgiving!😊
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Parents Cooking Club's Post
Pumpkin Cheese Ball
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling)
Servings: 12
Ingredients:
• 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1–2 cups crushed cheese-flavored chips (like Doritos or Cheetos) for coating
• 1 pretzel rod (or celery stick) for the “stem”
• Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish
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Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika until smooth.
2. Shape into a ball, then wrap in plastic wrap. Chill 1–2 hours to firm up.
3. Roll the chilled ball in crushed chips until fully coated.
4. Use a butter knife or spoon to create vertical “pumpkin grooves.”
5. Insert pretzel rod (or celery) on top as the pumpkin stem.
6. Add parsley/cilantro leaves around the stem for pumpkin leaves.
7. Serve with crackers, pretzels, or veggie sticks.
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Pro Tip: Make mini versions so everyone gets their own personal pumpkin cheese ball — they look amazing on a platter!