Description

This Skellington Cheese Ball is a creamy, tangy, and spooky appetizer perfect for Halloween parties. Decorated to look like Jack Skellington, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and fun to serve.

Ingredients

Scale

16 oz cream cheese, softened
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for coating)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/4 tsp black pepper
Salt to taste (about 1/2 tsp)
12–16 large black olives, sliced (for decorating)
Edible black food marker or gel (optional, for decorating)
Parsley or chives, optional (for garnish)
Assorted crackers (wheat, butter, rye)
Pretzel sticks or rods
Fresh veggie sticks (carrots, celery, cucumber)

Instructions

Set out cream cheese to soften for 15-20 minutes. Shred cheddar and mozzarella if using block cheese. Slice olives for decorating. Finely chop green onions and any herbs for garnish.
In a large mixing bowl, add softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and salt.
Beat with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium until fully combined and creamy, about 2 minutes. If mixing by hand, mash everything with a sturdy spatula until smooth.
Lay out a large sheet of plastic wrap. Spoon the cheese mixture onto the center and gather the wrap around it, shaping into a round ball about 5-6 inches across.
Twist the plastic wrap closed and gently shape into a skull-like oval. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours to firm up, or freeze for 20-30 minutes if short on time.
Once chilled, unwrap the cheese ball and roll it in extra shredded mozzarella, pressing gently to cover the surface. Smooth with a spatula or hands for a seamless ‘skull’ look.
Use sliced black olives for the eyes (two large rounds), nose (two small ovals), and mouth (a row of thin slices for the stitched smile). Use edible black food marker or gel for extra detail if desired. Arrange parsley or chives around the base for garnish.
Transfer the finished cheese ball to a serving platter. Surround with crackers, pretzels, and veggie sticks. Keep chilled until ready to serve. If making ahead, cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

Notes

For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and freshly shredded cheese. Chill well for structure before shaping and decorating. If olives won’t stick, use a dab of cream cheese as glue. Cheese ball can be made ahead and decorated just before serving. For gluten-free, check Worcestershire sauce and serve with gluten-free crackers. Nut-free as written; always check labels for allergies.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: About 2 tablespoons per serving
Calories: 90
Sodium: 150
Fat: 7
Carbohydrates: 2
Protein: 5

Keywords: Halloween, cheese ball, party appetizer, Jack Skellington, spooky snacks, crowd-pleaser, easy appetizer, make-ahead, vegetarian, nut-free