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Cozy Halloween Charcuterie Board with Cheese Pumpkins

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A warm and whimsical Halloween charcuterie board featuring adorable cheese pumpkins made from cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and Parmesan. Perfect for a cozy night in, this easy, no-cook board is loaded with savory meats, nuts, dried fruit, and crackers for a stress-free festive treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
  • 1/4 cup powdered Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh chives or small pretzel sticks (for pumpkin stems)
  • 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, sliced or cubed
  • 6 oz salami or prosciutto
  • 1 cup mixed nuts (roasted and salted almonds, pecans, or cashews)
  • 1 cup crackers (buttery Ritz and wheat or rosemary crackers)
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries or cherries
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate bar
  • Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
  • Apple slices or pear slices (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the Cheese Pumpkin Spread: In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, finely shredded sharp cheddar, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix with a rubber spatula until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  2. Shape the Cheese Pumpkins: Tear off an 8-inch piece of plastic wrap. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture into the center. Gather the edges and twist to form a tight ball, then gently squeeze the top to create a slight point (pumpkin shape). Repeat to make 6-8 pumpkins. Place on a plate and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to firm up.
  3. Prepare Your Board: Place small bowls or ramekins on the board. Fill with nuts, dried cranberries, and dark chocolate chips. Arrange in a balanced layout (e.g., triangle or diagonal).
  4. Add the Meats and Cheeses: Arrange sliced salami or prosciutto in piles or folds around the bowls. Place sharp cheddar chunks in several spots, letting some overlap for an abundant look.
  5. Add the Crackers and Fruit: Fill remaining gaps with crackers in small clusters or rows. Tuck apple or pear slices around the edges. Add any other extras like olives or pickles.
  6. Place the Cheese Pumpkins: Remove pumpkins from the fridge. Gently unwrap each and place them in a cluster in the center of the board to create a focal point.
  7. Add the Stems and Garnish: Press a small piece of fresh chive or a short pretzel stick into the top of each pumpkin for a stem. Tuck fresh rosemary sprigs around the pumpkins and board.
  8. Final Touches: Step back and fill any sparse spots with extra crackers or nuts. Serve immediately or let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best results, use full-fat cream cheese. If the cheese mixture is too sticky to shape, refrigerate for 10-15 minutes before forming balls. The cheese pumpkins can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge. Let the board sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween charcuterie board, cheese pumpkins, easy appetizer, no-cook recipe, cozy Halloween snack, cream cheese pumpkins, fall charcuterie board

Find it online: https://fizzlefork.com/cozy-halloween-charcuterie-board-with-cheese-pumpkins/