Thanksgiving is a time to enjoy the bountiful harvest of summer. It’s a time of togetherness and delectable treats. A time to appreciate all the hard work that all of the farmers and food producers put in so that we can enjoy a delicious meal with family and friends.
Anthony found this creative recipe for a pumpkin cheese ball. It was a big hit at a Halloween party a few weeks ago. We thought it was such a creative idea that we asked him to make it again for our Thanksgiving meal this week.
We thought we would share the recipe with you too! Make a pumpkin cheese ball part of your Thanksgiving table this year. This whimsical and tasty creation not only tantalizes the taste buds but also serves as an eye-catching centerpiece.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces of softened cream cheese
- 1 cup (4-5oz) shredded Clover or Galen’s Good Old
- 1 cup (4-5oz) shredded Four Leaf Clover or Royer Mountain
- 1.5 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 scallion, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped chives
- Kosher salt
- black pepper
- 1 bell pepper
- 2/3 cup Cheddar Goldfish or Cheez-its, finely crushed
- Crackers or sliced veggies for serving
Instructions on how to make the pumpkin cheese ball:
- Mix and Shape: In a bowl, stir the cream cheese until soft. Add the shredded cheese, Worcestershire sauce, scallions, and chives until well combined. season with salt and pepper as needed. Refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes to firm it up.
- Form the Pumpkin: Transfer the cheese mixture to a large piece of plastic wrap (you may need 2 pieces). Cover, and form into a large ball. Using 4 rubber bands, create ridges by wrapping them around the ball, and dividing them into 8 sections. You may need to wrap them multiple times if they’re too large to make an indent. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or up to 3 days.
- Prepare the Stem: To create the pumpkin “stem,” carefully remove the stem from the bell pepper. Slice the remaining pepper for serving.
- Add Color and Texture: Remove rubber bands and plastic wrap from the cheese ball and coat in orange cracker crumbs. Transfer to a platter and press the pepper stem into the top. Store in the fridge until your are ready to serve.
- Soften before serving: Let the cheese ball soften to room temperature, about 30 minutes before you are ready. Serve with crackers and sliced vegetables alongside.
Why It’s Perfect for Thanksgiving:
The Pumpkin Cheese Ball brings not only a burst of flavor but also a festive vibe to the Thanksgiving table. This delightful cheese ball is a must-try for your Thanksgiving, offering a combination of flavor, creativity, and visual appeal that captures the essence of the holiday season. Add this adorable pumpkin-shaped treat to your celebration and watch as it becomes a new tradition everyone adores.
Tips and Variations:
- Customize: Experiment with different cheeses or add nuts or bacon bits for extra flavor.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the cheese ball a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to serve.
This Pumpkin Cheese Ball isn’t just a tasty treat; it’s a conversation starter and a visual delight that will elevate your Thanksgiving celebration. Gather around, share stories, and enjoy this whimsical addition to your holiday feast!
Leave a comment below if you tried it for your Thanksgiving this year!
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