In a large mixing bowl, combine the chive and onion cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Beat until all ingredients are blended smoothly, creating a creamy mixture.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes. This helps to firm up the mixture, making it easier to roll into balls.

Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Roll each cheese ball in crushed cheese crackers until they are thoroughly coated.

With a toothpick, gently press ridges around the sides of each ball, and slightly flatten the tops to achieve that classic pumpkin shape.

Cover the shaped balls and chill them in the refrigerator for 45 minutes to 1 hour before serving.

Just before serving, insert half a pretzel stick into the top of each cheese ball to create a fun stem. Finish off with a sprig of parsley.