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Pumpkin Ghost Cheese Ball Spread

This Pumpkin Ghost Cheese Ball Spread is a fun and festive Halloween snack that combines creamy cheese, savory flavors, and crunchy pecans, perfect for gatherings and fall parties.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Halloween
Calories: 185
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the cheese mixture
  • 16 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature Use block-style cream cheese for best structure.
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded Can be substituted with mild cheddar if preferred.
  • 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix Use lower-sodium ranch seasoning mix if desired.
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce Can be replaced with a splash of soy sauce or tamari.
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped Can replace with finely chopped chives.
For coating and decorating
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted Ensure they are not burned.
  • 4 small pieces of black olive, thinly sliced For eyes.
  • 1 small piece of orange bell pepper, cut into a triangle For the nose.
For serving
  • crackers, sliced baguette, or pretzel sticks For serving with the cheese spread.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer until smooth and no lumps remain (1 to 2 minutes).
  2. Add the shredded cheddar, ranch seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and green onions. Beat again until fully combined.
  3. Lay a large sheet of plastic wrap on the counter, scoop the cheese mixture into the center, and shape it into a rounded, slightly tapered dome.
  4. Wrap the cheese ball tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
Decoration and Serving
  1. Unwrap the cheese ball and set it on a platter. Press the toasted chopped pecans around the base, leaving the top smooth.
  2. Add the olive slices for eyes and the orange bell pepper triangle for the nose.
  3. Serve immediately with crackers, sliced baguette, or pretzel sticks.

Notes

For the best texture, use full-fat cream cheese and let it soften. Store leftovers tightly wrapped in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can freeze the cheese mixture without decorations for up to 1 month.