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Mini Pumpkin Cheese Balls

Mini Pumpkin Cheese Balls for Festive Autumn Gatherings

Delightful Mini Pumpkin Cheese Balls perfect for Halloween and Thanksgiving gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 10 balls
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 80

Ingredients
  

For the Cheese Mixture
  • 8 oz Chive and Onion Cream Cheese Plain cream cheese can also be used.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Smoked gouda is a good alternative.
  • 1 tsp Paprika Can substitute with cayenne for a spicy kick.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used, adjust to taste.
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper Adjust according to taste.
For the Coating
  • 1 cup Crushed Cheese Crackers Crushed pretzels can also be used.
For the Garnish
  • 10 pieces Pretzel Sticks Can substitute with chives or carrot sticks.
  • 1 bunch Flat-leaf Parsley Other fresh herbs like dill can also be used.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • cookie scoop
  • spatula
  • parchment paper
  • Plate
  • Plastic wrap
  • Refrigerator

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chive and onion cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Beat until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Cover the mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and firm up.
  3. Shape the chilled mixture into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  4. Roll each cheese ball in the crushed cheese crackers until evenly coated.
  5. Using a toothpick, press ridges around each cheese ball to mimic a pumpkin, flattening the tops slightly.
  6. Chill the shaped balls in the refrigerator for an additional 45 minutes to 1 hour.
  7. Before serving, insert pretzel sticks into the tops of each cheese ball and garnish with parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ballCalories: 80kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 3gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 50mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Chill cheese mixture properly for easy handling. Lightly oil hands while shaping to prevent sticking. Coat in crackers just before serving for freshness.

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