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Skellington Cheese Ball Appetizer – Easy Halloween Party Showstopper

Skellington cheese ball appetizer - featured image
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This Skellington cheese ball appetizer is a creamy, savory party centerpiece shaped like Jack Skellington’s face. It’s quick to make, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for Halloween gatherings or themed movie nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened (full-fat recommended)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 6–8 jumbo black olives (for decoration: eyes, nose, mouth stitches)
  • 1 small piece red bell pepper or sun-dried tomato (optional, for decoration)
  • Thin pretzel sticks or black tortilla chips (optional, for decoration or serving)
  • Assorted crackers (for serving)
  • Vegetable sticks (carrots, celery, cucumber, for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, grated cheddar, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
  2. Beat with a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth and evenly combined, about 2-3 minutes. If mixing by hand, use a sturdy wooden spoon.
  3. Scoop the cheese mixture onto a large sheet of plastic wrap. Gather the wrap around the cheese and form it into a ball, flattening the bottom and elongating slightly for a head shape.
  4. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight) to firm up.
  5. While chilling, slice black olives into rounds and strips for eyes, nose, and mouth. Prepare any red bell pepper or sun-dried tomato for extra decoration.
  6. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball and place on a serving platter. Use olive slices to create Jack Skellington’s eyes, nose, and stitched mouth. Add pretzel sticks or red pepper if desired.
  7. Surround with crackers and veggie sticks. Serve chilled but not ice-cold; let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving for best texture.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated cheddar and full-fat cream cheese. Chill thoroughly before decorating to ensure the cheese ball holds its shape. Decorate just before serving for the glossiest look. Easily adapt for gluten-free or dairy-free diets by swapping crackers and cheeses. Store leftovers tightly wrapped in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween, cheese ball, appetizer, party food, Jack Skellington, Nightmare Before Christmas, easy, make-ahead, vegetarian, holiday, spooky, themed snack

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/skellington-cheese-ball-appetizer-easy-halloween-party-showstopper/