Embrace the flavors of fall with our Savory Pumpkin Spice Cheeseballs with Maple Drizzle. This captivating creation blends the warmth of pumpkin spice with the richness of cream cheese, creating a delightfully savory treat that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Drizzled with a sweet and tantalizing maple glaze, these cheeseballs are the perfect appetizer or snack to share with friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This Savory Pumpkin Spice Cheeseballs with Maple Drizzle
These savory pumpkin spice cheeseballs are a delightful twist on the classic holiday flavors. The combination of warm spices, creamy cheese, and a hint of sweetness creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or looking for a unique appetizer to bring to a party, this recipe is sure to impress and delight your guests. With its easy-to-follow instructions and make-ahead convenience, you can enjoy the flavors of the season with minimal effort.
Ingredients
This recipe calls for a simple list of ingredients that come together to create a showstopping savory pumpkin spice treat. You’ll need cream cheese, pumpkin puree, grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, and a blend of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. To finish it off, a drizzle of maple syrup adds the perfect touch of sweetness.
- 8 oz (226g) – Cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (120ml) – Pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup (50g) – Grated Parmesan
- 1 cup (100g) – Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp – Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves
Ingredient Substitutions
- Parmesan cheese: Cheddar or Gruyère (for a different flavor profile)
- Cream cheese: Plant-based cream cheese alternative (for a dairy-free option)
How to Make Savory Pumpkin Spice Cheeseballs with Maple Drizzle
Follow these simple steps to create your savory pumpkin spice masterpiece:
Step 1: Prep Work
Begin by allowing the cream cheese to come to room temperature for easy mixing. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, pumpkin puree, Parmesan, and your blend of warm spices. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Main Cooking Process
Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, portion the pumpkin spice cream cheese mixture into bite-sized balls. Roll each ball in the panko breadcrumbs, gently pressing to help the crumbs adhere.
Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly
Arrange the coated cheeseballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until firm.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
When ready to serve, drizzle the chilled cheeseballs with the maple syrup, allowing it to cascade over the edges for a truly stunning presentation.
Recipe Variations & Tips
- Texture: For a pop of color and texture, try rolling the chilled cheeseballs in chopped toasted pecans or walnuts instead of panko breadcrumbs.
- Flavor: You can also experiment with different flavor profiles by incorporating herbs, spices, or a hint of citrus zest into the cream cheese mixture.
- Crowd-Pleasing: If you’re hosting a crowd, consider doubling the recipe to ensure there are plenty of these savory pumpkin spice delights to go around.
- Dairy-Free: For a vegan or dairy-free option, use a plant-based cream cheese alternative and omit the Parmesan cheese.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: These savory pumpkin spice cheeseballs can be served as a stand-alone appetizer or alongside a charcuterie board or crudité platter.
Storage: The cheeseballs can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheat: When ready to serve, simply thaw the frozen cheeseballs in the refrigerator and drizzle with the maple syrup.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the cheeseballs, roll them in the panko breadcrumbs, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days before serving. Drizzle with the maple syrup when ready to enjoy.
Nutrition Information
Each serving of these savory pumpkin spice cheeseballs provides a balance of creamy, indulgent flavors with a touch of sweetness. They’re a great source of calcium and protein, thanks to the cream cheese and Parmesan. And with the addition of pumpkin puree, you’ll also get a boost of vitamins and minerals to keep you feeling your best.
- Serving Size: 2 cheeseballs
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Carbs: 8 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cheeseballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! These savory pumpkin spice cheeseballs are perfect for making in advance. Simply prepare the cheeseballs, roll them in the panko breadcrumbs, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days before serving. When ready to serve, drizzle with the maple syrup and enjoy.
Can I freeze the cheeseballs?
Yes, you can freeze these cheeseballs for longer-term storage. Prepare and roll the cheeseballs as directed, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer the cheeseballs to an airtight container or resealable bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the cheeseballs in the refrigerator and drizzle with the maple syrup.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for Parmesan, you can experiment with other hard, aged cheeses like cheddar, gruyère, or even a blend of cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
How do I know when the cheeseballs are done?
The cheeseballs are ready when they have been chilled in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes and have become firm and set. You’ll know they’re ready when you can easily roll them in the panko breadcrumbs without them falling apart.
Can I make these cheeseballs vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegan or dairy-free. Simply use a plant-based cream cheese alternative and omit the Parmesan cheese. You can also experiment with other dairy-free cheese options, such as almond or cashew-based cheeses, to achieve a similar creamy texture and flavor.
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Savory Pumpkin Spice Cheeseballs with Luscious Maple Drizzle
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: 🍰 Sweet & Savory Mashups
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Savory Pumpkin Spice Cheeseballs are a delightful blend of creamy cheese and warm spices, drizzled with sweet maple syrup for a perfect bite-sized treat.
Ingredients
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tsp pumpkin spice
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup chopped pecans
Maple syrup for drizzling
Instructions
1. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, pumpkin puree, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, pumpkin spice, garlic powder, and salt.
2. Mix until well combined and smooth.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
4. Once chilled, form the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
5. Roll the cheeseballs in chopped pecans to coat them evenly.
6. Drizzle with maple syrup before serving.
7. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
These cheeseballs can be made a day ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cheeseball
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: pumpkin, cheese, appetizers, snacks