Fall is the season of cozy gatherings, holiday spreads, and appetizers that make people stop and say, “Wow, what is that?” One of my absolute favorite crowd-pleasers is the Pumpkin Cheese Ball—a creamy, savory dip disguised as an adorable pumpkin. It’s the kind of dish that checks all the boxes: delicious, easy to make, budget-friendly, and so much fun to bring to the table.
I first made this for a neighborhood Halloween potluck, and it vanished in minutes. The kids loved helping me roll it in crushed cheese puffs, the adults couldn’t stop dipping crackers into its cheesy goodness, and everyone wanted the recipe. It’s festive, it’s family-friendly, and it just might become your go-to fall party appetizer.
Pumpkin Cheese Ball
Ingredients
- 3 cups orange cheese puffs crushed, for coating
- 2 lbs cream cheese softened
- 3 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup chives finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper or to taste
- 1 bell pepper stem for decoration
- crackers and veggies for serving (Ritz, pretzels, celery sticks, etc.)
Instructions
- Place the cheese puffs in a food processor and pulse until finely ground. Spread the crumbs evenly on a baking sheet.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded Cheddar, chopped chives, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Form the mixture into a ball and gently flatten the top. Use a butter knife to create vertical grooves around the sides to resemble a pumpkin.
- Roll the shaped cheese ball in the crushed cheese puffs until fully coated.
- Insert the bell pepper stem into the top center of the cheese ball to complete the pumpkin look.
- Place the cheese ball on a serving plate and surround it with crackers, pretzels, and vegetable slices.
Notes
Nutrition
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Cheese Ball
Festive Fall Appetizers
This cheese ball doesn’t just taste amazing—it looks like fall on a plate. With its pumpkin-orange coating and bell pepper stem, it’s the edible décor that doubles as a starter.
Halloween Party Snack Ideas
Forget complicated spooky snacks—this one is simple, yet eye-catching. Place it in the center of your Halloween spread and surround it with crackers or veggies for instant party magic. (Pair it with Halloween Dirt Cups for a sweet-and-savory balance!)
Thanksgiving Starter Recipes
Want something savory before the turkey hits the table? This cheese ball works beautifully as a Thanksgiving appetizer. Its creamy texture and sharp Cheddar flavor complement everything from turkey to cranberry sauce.
Family-Friendly Holiday Recipes
Kids love being part of the process—shaping the ball, rolling it in cheese puffs, and adding the “stem.” It’s hands-on fun that keeps little helpers engaged.
DIY Party Food Centerpieces
It’s not just food—it’s a conversation starter. Place it on a fall-themed board with crackers, pretzels, and bell pepper slices, and watch guests admire your creativity.
Game Day Party Foods
Cheese and football go hand in hand. Serve this pumpkin-shaped cheese ball at your next game-day gathering with chips and pretzels, and it will be gone before halftime.
Pinterest-Worthy Holiday Snacks
Styled right, this recipe belongs on every fall party board. Its bright orange color and playful pumpkin shape practically scream “pin me!”
Budget-Friendly Entertaining Ideas
With cream cheese, Cheddar, and a handful of pantry staples, you’re turning affordable ingredients into a show-stopping appetizer.
Seasonal Comfort Foods
Cheese always feels cozy, but in pumpkin form? It’s the ultimate seasonal comfort food.
Make-Ahead Holiday Recipes
Prep it a day in advance, cover it, and keep it chilled. When party time comes, all you need to do is place it on the table and accept the compliments.
Ingredients Breakdown & Substitutions
- Orange Cheese Puffs (3 cups): These are crushed to coat the outside of the cheese ball, giving it the pumpkin-orange color. Don’t have cheese puffs? Substitute with crushed nacho chips or even paprika for a lighter coating.
- Cream Cheese (2 lbs): The creamy base. Make sure it’s softened at room temperature for easy mixing. You can swap half for Neufchâtel cheese to lighten it up.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (3 cups): Adds sharpness and bold flavor. Prefer a milder taste? Use Colby Jack or Monterey Jack.
- Chives (¼ cup): For freshness and a mild onion bite. Green onions make a good substitute.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Classic seasonings. You can also mix in garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra depth.
- Bell Pepper Stem: This clever trick turns your cheese ball into a pumpkin. Any color bell pepper works—green for a classic stem look, or red for fun contrast.
- Crackers & Veggies for Serving: Ritz, pretzels, celery sticks, and bell pepper slices all pair beautifully with this creamy dip.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Coating: Place the cheese puffs in a food processor and pulse until finely ground. Spread evenly on a baking sheet.
- Mix the Cheese Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded Cheddar, chives, salt, and pepper. Stir with a spatula until smooth and well-blended.
- Shape the Pumpkin: Form the mixture into a ball. Press the top gently to flatten slightly. Using a butter knife, carve vertical lines to resemble pumpkin grooves.
- Roll in Coating: Carefully roll the cheese ball in the crushed cheese puffs until fully coated.
- Add the Stem: Remove the stem from a bell pepper and press it into the top of the cheese ball.
- Assemble the Platter: Place the cheese ball in the center of a serving plate. Surround it with crackers, pretzels, and bell pepper slices.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 10–12 | Calories: ~320 per serving
Variations, Storage & Serving Ideas
- Spicy Version: Add minced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese mix.
- Herb Lover’s Twist: Mix in fresh dill, parsley, or thyme for a garden-fresh flavor.
- Mini Pumpkins: Make smaller cheese balls and shape each into bite-sized pumpkins. Perfect for individual servings.
- Storage: Wrap leftovers in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as cream cheese changes texture when thawed.
FAQs
1. Can I make the pumpkin cheese ball ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Wait to add the cheese puff coating until just before serving to keep it fresh and crunchy.
2. What can I serve with a pumpkin cheese ball?
Crackers, pretzels, and fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers are classic. For something unique, serve it with apple slices or even pita chips. The savory cheese pairs well with sweet and salty dippers.
3. Can I make a smaller version of this recipe?
Absolutely! Just cut the recipe in half and shape it into a smaller pumpkin. You can also create several mini cheese balls for individual servings—adorable and practical for parties.
4. How do I keep the cheese ball from getting too soft?
If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate the cheese ball for 30 minutes before serving. This helps it hold its shape better and keeps the dip cool, creamy, and firm enough for scooping.
A Pumpkin Cheese Ball Worth Sharing
The Pumpkin Cheese Ball is more than just an appetizer—it’s a festive centerpiece, a family-friendly recipe, and a conversation starter that belongs at every fall celebration. Whether you’re planning a Halloween party, setting out a Thanksgiving spread, or hosting game day with friends, this cozy, cheesy creation is guaranteed to impress.
I’d love to see how your pumpkin cheese ball turns out! Share your photos and tag me on Facebook or pin this recipe to your fall board on Pinterest. Let’s keep inspiring each other with festive, flavorful recipes that make autumn gatherings unforgettable.
More Fall & Halloween Recipes You’ll Love
- Pumpkin Mousse
- Halloween Charcuterie Board
- Halloween Sausage Mummies
- Halloween Brownies
- Halloween Nachos
- Ghostface Chocolate Covered Strawberries
- Eyeball Jello Shots
- Eyeball Pasta Salad
- Moist Pumpkin Bread
- Halloween Sprinkle Cookies
- Pumpkin Scones
- Vampire Trail Mix
- Pumpkin Trifle
- Pumpkin Donuts
- Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix
Looking for more inspiration? Browse my Halloween Cupcakes, Halloween Dirt Cups, and explore even more seasonal ideas in my full recipe blog