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Spider Cheese Ball for Halloween

This cheese ball is shaped into a round mass of seasoned cream cheese and shredded cheese, coated with spices and herbs, with pretzel legs and web-like decorations added for a spooky effect. It has a creamy, smooth interior with a slightly firm exterior that holds its shape, topped with web patterns made from melted cheese or cream cheese. The finished dish resembles a spider crawling on the table, combining savory flavor and a playful presentation.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tsp paprika for color and flavor
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 8 whole pretzels for spider legs
  • 1 shredded mozzarella cheese for web decoration
  • Optional melted cheese or cream cheese for web details for web pattern
  • 1 egg egg wash optional, for pretzel legs

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Plastic wrap or parchment paper
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Small piping bag or plastic sandwich bag
  • Oven
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well incorporated. This creates the base of your cheese ball.
  2. Shape the cheese mixture into a round ball using your hands or a spatula, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up and make it easier to handle.
  3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the pretzels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush or spray them lightly with egg wash for a shiny finish, then bake for 4–5 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove and let cool, then break into pieces if desired to mimic spider legs.
  4. Carefully unwrap the chilled cheese ball and place it on a serving platter. Flatten the top slightly with a spoon or spatula if needed to create a surface for web decoration.
  5. Using a piping bag or small plastic bag with a tiny hole, pipe web patterns of melted cheese or cream cheese over the surface of the cheese ball, creating a web-like design. Add small shredded mozzarella cheese spots to enhance the web effect if you like.
  6. Insert pretzel legs into the cheese ball by gently pushing them into the sides, spacing evenly around the circumference to resemble spider legs.
  7. Optionally, add small dollops of melted cheese or cream cheese to reinforce web lines or fill gaps for a more webbed appearance. Let the web set for a few minutes before serving.
  8. Arrange extra pretzels around the cheese ball to complete the spooky spider scene. Serve immediately or chill briefly to set the decoration further.

Notes

Tip: To make the web design more precise, use a toothpick or a fine-tipped piping bag. For extra gooeyness, use a cheese dip or soft spread for web details.