For a richer flavor, try using roasted garlic instead of raw. If you don't have cheese-flavored crackers, you can use plain crackers or breadcrumbs seasoned with a pinch of garlic powder and paprika. To make ahead, prepare the cheeseballs and keep them refrigerated until ready to serve. Add the pretzel stems just before serving to prevent them from softening. Consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the cheese mixture for a smoky flavor.
Mini Cheeseball Pumpkins with Caramelized Garlic
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PREP TIME30 mins
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COOK TIME5 mins
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TOTAL TIME1 hrs 5 mins
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SERVING24 People
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VIEWS16
Transform your autumn spread with these delightful mini cheeseball pumpkins! They boast a sophisticated caramelized garlic flavor and are surprisingly simple to create, making them the perfect festive appetizer for Thanksgiving or Halloween.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate19 g
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Cholesterol21 mg
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Fiber1 g
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Protein6 g
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Saturated Fat5 g
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Sodium631 mg
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Sugar1 g
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Fat9 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
Step
1 mins
Caramelize the Garlic: In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter until it sizzles (about 30 seconds). Add the chopped garlic and sugar. Cook, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant and just begins to turn golden brown, approximately 3 to 5 minutes. Immediately remove from heat to prevent burning.
02
Step
2 mins
Combine Cheese Mixture: Transfer the caramelized garlic mixture to a mixing bowl. Add the shredded aged Cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, chopped green onions, and garlic salt. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
03
Step
30 mins
Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until the cheese mixture is firm enough to handle and shape easily, about 30 minutes. This chilling process is crucial for maintaining the pumpkin shape.
04
Step
2 mins
Shape the Pumpkins: Once chilled, scoop out portions of the cheese mixture and shape them into golf-ball-sized balls using your hands. Gently flatten the bottom of each ball to create a stable base.
05
Step
2 mins
Coat in Cracker Crumbs: Roll each cheese ball in the finely crushed cheese-flavored crackers, ensuring an even coating. The cracker crumbs provide a delightful crunch and add to the pumpkin-like texture.
06
Step
2 mins
Add Pretzel Stems: Press half a pretzel stick into the top of each cheese ball to resemble a pumpkin stem. Ensure the pretzel stick is securely inserted.
07
Step
2 mins
Arrange and Garnish: Spread fresh parsley on a serving plate to create a visually appealing bed. Arrange the mini cheeseball pumpkins on top of the parsley, leaving enough space between them so the parsley shows through. This adds a touch of freshness and color to the presentation.
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RECIPE REVIEWS
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Please Rate
Sheila Mertz
Jun 27, 2025I followed the recipe exactly, and they turned out perfectly. The chilling time is essential!
Luisa Von
Jun 22, 2025These were a huge hit at my Halloween party! Everyone loved the caramelized garlic flavor.
Tomas Stracke
Jun 11, 2025These are so cute and festive! I'll definitely be making them again next year.