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Mini Pumpkin Cheese Balls

Mini Pumpkin Cheese Balls: A Whimsical Fall Treat!

Mini Pumpkin Cheese Balls are delightful vegetarian appetizers featuring creamy cheese and a crunch coating, perfect for gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 12 balls
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 100

Ingredients
  

For the Cheese Mixture
  • 8 oz Chive and Onion Cream Cheese Substitute with plain cream cheese for a milder taste.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Can be swapped with smoked gouda for a unique twist.
  • 1 tsp Paprika Cayenne can be used for extra heat.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh garlic is an alternative, but use sparingly.
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Adjust to personal taste preference.
For the Coating
  • 1 cup Crushed Cheese Crackers Use crushed pretzels for a fun variation.
For Presentation
  • 12 stalks Pretzel Sticks Replace with chives for a fresh look.
  • 1/4 cup Flat-leaf Parsley Fresh herbs like chives or dill also work well.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer
  • cookie scoop
  • baking sheet
  • parchment paper
  • Plastic wrap

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chive and onion cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Beat on medium speed until smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Cover the mixing bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for approximately 15 minutes.
  3. Use a small cookie scoop to form approximately 1-inch balls, making about 12 total, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  4. Roll each cheese ball in the crushed cheese crackers until well-coated.
  5. Using a toothpick, press ridges around the sides and flatten the tops slightly to create a pumpkin shape.
  6. Cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 45 minutes to an hour.
  7. Just before serving, insert half a pretzel stick into the top of each ball and garnish with fresh flat-leaf parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ballCalories: 100kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 5gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 50mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

These Mini Pumpkin Cheese Balls can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making them a stress-free option for gatherings.

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