Pumpkin Shaped Cheese Ball

 

Ingredients:

• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning powder
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 3 green onions, sliced (optional)
• 1 red pepper, finely diced (save the stem)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the ranch seasoning powder, Worcestershire sauce, and diced pepper. Stir until fully combined.
3. Fold in one cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and stir once more to ensure all ingredients are fully combined.
4. Lay out a sheet of plastic wrap and sprinkle ¼ cup of shredded cheese onto it.
5. Shape the cream cheese mixture into a ball and place it on top of the shredded cheese.
6. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese all over the cheese ball, pressing into it to ensure all sides are coated.
7. Wrap the cheese ball tightly with the plastic wrap, using two layers to prevent any of the mixture from coming out.
8. Wrap the cheese ball with four large rubber bands to create the indentations for the pumpkin shape.
9. Place the cheese ball in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
10. Remove the cheese ball from the refrigerator and cut off the rubber bands. Unwrap the cheese ball and place the red pepper stem on top.
11. Serve with crackers or vegetables.