Pumpkin Cheese Ball Recipe

This Pumpkin Cheese Ball Recipe is a delightful twist on a classic party favorite. Creamy cream cheese gets blended with warm pumpkin spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, then rolled into…

By Stella • October 11, 2025 • Reading time: 6 min

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This Pumpkin Cheese Ball Recipe is a delightful twist on a classic party favorite. Creamy cream cheese gets blended with warm pumpkin spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, then rolled into a fun pumpkin shape. It’s topped with chopped nuts and fresh herbs for a perfect mix of creamy, spicy, and crunchy textures.

I love making this cheese ball for fall get-togethers because it’s not just tasty but also super cute on the snack table. It’s always a hit, and I find myself reaching for it again and again. Pro tip: let the flavors meld in the fridge for a few hours before serving—it really makes the spices pop!

This cheese ball goes great with crackers, sliced baguettes, or crisp veggies. I like to arrange some colorful sliced apples alongside for a sweet contrast. It’s a great way to add a little seasonal cheer to any gathering, and honestly, it’s fun to make too. I bet it will quickly become a staple at your house as well.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Cream Cheese: This is the main base for the cheese ball, giving it a smooth and creamy texture. Softened cream cheese blends well. If you want a lighter option, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese, but the texture will be slightly less rich.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a punch of flavor and some firmness. If you prefer a milder taste, try mild cheddar or Monterey Jack. For extra cheesiness, add a bit of Parmesan.

Pecans & Ritz Crackers: The mix of pecans and crushed Ritz crackers gives a crunchy coating that resembles pumpkin skin. If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or almonds work fine.

Spices & Worcestershire Sauce: Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce bring depth and a slight smoky tang. If you don’t have Worcestershire, a dash of soy sauce or a bit of mustard can substitute.

Chives: Fresh chives add a mild onion flavor and some color. Green onions or finely chopped parsley can replace chives.

How Do You Shape the Cheese Ball to Look Like a Pumpkin?

Getting that pumpkin look is easy if you follow these steps:

• After mixing the cheese and seasonings, shape the mixture into a smooth, round ball with your hands.
• To create the pumpkin ridges, gently pinch your fingers vertically around the ball. Don’t press too hard; you want shallow grooves.
• Use a small decorative pumpkin stem or a trimmed green bell pepper stem for the top to resemble a pumpkin’s stem.
• Roll the shaped ball in the pecan and cracker mixture, pressing lightly to coat evenly.

Chill the cheese ball before serving. This not only firms the shape but helps the flavors to blend nicely too. I find chilling for at least 2 hours gives the best results.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl – big enough to combine all ingredients easily without spilling.
• Hand mixer or spoon – a hand mixer makes blending smooth and quick, but a sturdy spoon works too.
• Small bowl – to mix the cracker and pecan coating together before rolling.
• Serving plate – to display your cheese ball nicely, especially with garnish around.
• Plastic wrap or airtight container – for chilling the cheese ball and keeping it fresh before serving.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap sharp cheddar for smoked gouda to add a subtle smoky flavor that pairs well with the spices.
• Add finely chopped cooked bacon into the cheese mixture for a salty, savory boost.
• Mix in dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots for a touch of sweetness that contrasts the cheese.
• Use toasted walnuts instead of pecans in the coating for a slightly different nutty crunch.

How to Make a Pumpkin Cheese Ball

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Main Ingredients:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers

Seasonings & Add-ons:

• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives, plus extra for garnish
• Small decorative pumpkin stem or trimmed green bell pepper stem (optional)

Time Needed:

This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires at least 2 hours of chilling time in the fridge. The chilling helps the cheese ball firm up and flavors to blend perfectly.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Mix the Cheese and Flavors:

Start by putting the softened cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar in a big bowl. Add Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until it’s smooth and combined.

2. Add the Chives:

Stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh chives evenly through the mixture for a fresh, mild onion flavor.

3. Shape Your Pumpkin:

Now, shape the cheese mixture into a round ball. Use your fingers to pinch shallow vertical grooves around the ball so it looks like a pumpkin. This gives it those classic pumpkin ridges.

4. Add the Pumpkin Stem:

Stick a small decorative pumpkin stem or a trimmed green bell pepper stem into the top center of the ball to look like a pumpkin stem.

5. Coat the Cheese Ball:

In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with finely chopped pecans. Roll your pumpkin cheese ball in this mixture, gently pressing so it sticks well and coats the whole ball evenly.

6. Garnish and Chill:

Place the cheese ball on a serving plate. Surround it with any leftover cracker and pecan mixture, extra cheddar shreds, and chopped chives for a pretty presentation. Cover and chill it in the fridge for at least 2 hours to let it firm and the flavors meld.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve this festive pumpkin cheese ball with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh veggies. It’s perfect for fall parties and will be a fun, tasty snack for everyone!

Can I Make the Pumpkin Cheese Ball Ahead of Time?

Yes! In fact, chilling the cheese ball for at least 2 hours (or overnight) helps the flavors develop and the cheese firm up for easier slicing and serving.

What Can I Use Instead of Pecans?

If you’re not a fan of pecans or have a nut allergy, try using chopped walnuts, almonds, or even extra crushed crackers for the coating. Each option gives a slightly different but tasty crunch.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover cheese ball tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep fresh for up to 5 days. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving again.

Can I Use Different Cheeses in This Recipe?

Absolutely! Sharp cheddar provides great flavor, but you can experiment with smoked gouda, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses to customize the taste to your liking.