Pumpkin-Shaped Bacon Cheddar Cheese Ball with Crackers
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Plastic Wrap
- Serving Plate
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 small piece green bell pepper (for the stem)
- Assorted crackers, for serving
Instructions
- Place the softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl and mash it until smooth.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, chopped chives, and garlic powder. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
- Sprinkle in the paprika and mix again to distribute the color and flavor.
- Turn the mixture out onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Shape it into a round ball, then use your fingers or the edge of a spatula to press light vertical ridges around the sides so it resembles a pumpkin.
- Cut a small stem from the green bell pepper and press it gently into the top center of the cheese ball.
- Wrap the cheese ball in plastic wrap and chill for at least one hour to firm up.
- Unwrap and place on a serving plate with the crackers arranged around it.
Notes
Chill the cheese ball a little longer if your kitchen is warm so the ridges hold their shape. The bacon bits should be fully cooled and dry before mixing, otherwise the cheese ball can turn greasy. Leftovers keep in the fridge for two days if wrapped tightly.
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing Bowl, Plastic Wrap, Serving Plate
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Mixing Bowl, Plastic Wrap, Serving Plate