Mini Pumpkin Cheese Balls
These mini pumpkin cheese balls are a cute appetizer that’s both festive and delicious, making them perfect for fall gatherings and Thanksgiving celebrations.
Servings 15
Ingredients
- 12 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar finely shredded (You’ll also need a little extra for garnish.)
- 1 chive finely chopped
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp pepper
Garnish
- sharp cheddar finely shredded
- pretzel sticks
- toothpick or skewer
Instructions
- Beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add in the shredded cheese, chives, spices, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Cover and refrigerate the mixture for 20–30 minutes until slightly firm. This will make shaping easier.
- To shape into pumpkins, scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture, and roll each ball gently in the finely shredded cheddar. Press lightly so it adheres.
- To create the grooves, use a toothpick or skewer to gently press vertical lines around the sides to make them look like mini pumpkins.
- Insert a small piece of pretzel stick in the top as a “stem”.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let them firm up so they hold their shape.
Notes
Recipe makes about 15 mini cheese balls around 1 tbsp each.