I got this idea several years ago at a cooking class I attended. My kids think it is the coolest thing. It's always a big hit whenever I take it to a Halloween Party!!! It's much easier than it looks to put it together.
Step One: with soap and water wash a Mardi-Gras mask (available at most craft stores) and dry completely.
Step Two: Layer thin slices of ham inside the mask. Don't forget to push it into the nose and chin areas.
Step Three: Fill with Cheese Ball mixture (recipe below) again making sure you get it into the nose and chin area well. Trim any over-hanging ham. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours or until firm
Step Four: Invert onto serving platter. With a sharp knife, cut slits into eyes. Carefully dig a hole for the eyeball. Insert eyes. (I used some small balls I had around the house and a marker for the pupil.)
Step Five: Cut nostrils and a slit to open up the mouth.
CHEESE-BALL
2 (8 oz) packages of cream cheese, softened
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1/2 cup finely diced green pepper
1 tbs seasoning salt
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl. Spoon into mold or sprinkle 1/2 cup chopped pecans onto a large piece of plastic wrap. Spoon mixture into middle of nuts and fold plastic wrap over forming a ball shape. Refrigerate 2-3 hours or until firm.
Serve with crackers, bagel chips, pretzels, or vegetables.
The Dead Head is very freaky (& I don't scare easily). I am definitely going to make this for a tailgating party next weekend. I love a recipie that looks impressive and tastes good at the same time. Thank you for the inspiration.
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