Mini Pumpkin Cheese Balls

❤️ Recipe Summary

If you’re looking for a festive and easy fall appetizer, these Mini Pumpkin Cheese Balls are the perfect bite-sized treat! They’re made with creamy cheese, a hint of pumpkin, and shaped like adorable little pumpkins — a guaranteed hit at Thanksgiving, Halloween, or any autumn gathering.
This recipe is completely gluten-free, simple to prepare, and ideal for making ahead. You’ll love how cute and crowd-pleasing these mini cheese balls look on your holiday snack board.

Ingredient Notes and Easy Swaps

These festive cheese balls come together with simple ingredients you probably already have:

Cream Cheese: The creamy base — use full-fat for a rich, smooth texture.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Adds tangy flavor and firm texture when chilled.
Pumpkin Purée: Brings subtle sweetness and a lovely orange color. Make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Adds gentle, savory warmth.
Paprika: Enhances the pumpkin hue and flavor.
Gluten-Free Pretzel Sticks: Used as “pumpkin stems.”
Fresh Chives or Parsley: Optional garnish for that leafy pumpkin top look.

Substitutions:

Dairy-Free: Swap with vegan cream cheese and dairy-free cheddar.
Nut-Free: This recipe is naturally nut-free.
Add a Kick: Mix in a little cayenne or hot sauce for spice lovers.

How To Make Mini Pumpkin Cheese Balls (Step-By-Step)

Mix the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, pumpkin purée, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Beat with a hand mixer until smooth and well blended.

Chill the Mixture:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30–45 minutes until firm enough to shape.

Shape into Pumpkins:
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into small balls. Use a toothpick or knife to gently create pumpkin-like grooves around each one.

Add the “Stems”:
Insert a small gluten-free pretzel stick or a piece of celery on top as the pumpkin stem.

Garnish and Serve:
Add a small piece of chive or parsley next to the stem for a cute pumpkin leaf touch. Chill until serving time.

Top Your Cheese Balls With These:

Crushed gluten-free pretzels or nuts for crunch
A sprinkle of smoked paprika or chili flakes
A drizzle of honey or maple syrup for sweet-salty flavor

Tips For Success

Use chilled cheese: Cold cheese helps the balls hold their pumpkin shape.
Don’t overmix: Overmixing can make the cheese mixture too soft.
Make ahead: You can prepare these up to 24 hours in advance and store covered in the fridge.
Presentation matters: Arrange them on a wooden board with gluten-free crackers, grapes, and fall herbs for a stunning appetizer spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! They’re perfect for making a day in advance. Just store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Q: Can I freeze cheese balls?
Freezing is not recommended — the texture of cream cheese changes when thawed.

Q: Can I use another cheese besides cheddar?
Absolutely! Try Colby Jack or pepper jack for a milder or spicier flavor.

Q: How long will they last in the fridge?
They’ll stay fresh for about 3–4 days in an airtight container.

Love This Recipe?

If you loved these adorable mini cheese balls, don’t forget to rate and share this recipe on Pinterest! Tag your photos with #GlutenFreeFallEats — I’d love to see your fall appetizer creations.

Equipment

Mixing bowls
Hand mixer
Small cookie scoop or spoon
Toothpick or knife (for grooves)

Ingredients 1x2x3x

Cheese Ball Mixture:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 tbsp pumpkin purée
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings:

Gluten-free pretzel sticks
Chopped chives or parsley for garnish

Instructions

In a bowl, beat cream cheese, cheddar, pumpkin, and spices until creamy.
Chill the mixture for 30–45 minutes.
Scoop small balls and shape into pumpkins using a toothpick.
Insert a pretzel stick as a stem and garnish with chive leaves.
Chill until ready to serve. Enjoy!

Notes

For a flavor boost, add 1 tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese or a pinch of cayenne pepper. These cheese balls are great when paired with gluten-free crackers or apple slices.

SPECIAL NOTE

Make these cheese balls your own — adjust the spice level or toppings to match your guests’ tastes. They’re festive, easy, and perfect for gluten-free entertaining during fall holidays!

Nutrition

Nutrition Disclaimer

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients or brands used. Always verify if your ingredients are certified gluten-free for safety.

Mini Pumpkin Cheese Balls – Easy Gluten Free Fall Appetizer

❤️ Recipe Summary

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