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Creamy Pumpkin Dip with Gingersnap Dippers

creamy pumpkin dip with gingersnap dippers - featured image

This creamy pumpkin dip with gingersnap dippers is a quick and easy fall appetizer that tastes like pumpkin pie filling but takes only five minutes of active work. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Halloween parties, or any fall gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
  • ½ cup powdered sugar, sifted if desired
  • ¼ cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (freshly grated if possible)
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
  • Pinch of salt
  • 40–50 gingersnap cookies (for serving)
  • Optional garnishes: cinnamon, chopped pecans, caramel sauce

Instructions

  1. Soften the cream cheese: Take cream cheese out of fridge 30 minutes before starting. It should be soft enough to leave an indent when pressed.
  2. Beat the cream cheese: Add softened cream cheese to a large mixing bowl. Beat with a hand mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth and fluffy. Scrape down sides halfway through.
  3. Add the pumpkin puree: Spoon in canned pumpkin and beat on low speed until combined. Mixture will look loose—this is normal.
  4. Mix in the sugars and vanilla: Add powdered sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Start mixing on low speed to avoid splattering, then increase to medium and beat for 1 minute until smooth and creamy.
  5. Add the spices and salt: Sprinkle in cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Beat on low speed until evenly distributed. Scrape bowl and beat for another 30 seconds. Taste and adjust spices if desired.
  6. Chill (optional but recommended): Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and texture to firm up. Can be made up to 2 days ahead.
  7. Serve and garnish: Transfer dip to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with cinnamon or garnish with pecans and caramel sauce. Arrange gingersnaps around the bowl and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

For best texture, use full-fat cream cheese and ensure it’s softened to room temperature. If dip seems too thin, pat pumpkin puree dry with a paper towel before adding. If too thick, add a tablespoon of milk or cream. Dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Do not freeze. For a dairy-free version, use vegan cream cheese. For less sugar, reduce powdered sugar to ¼ cup and use sugar-free brown sugar substitute.

Nutrition

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