This Pumpkin Mousse Dip is a creamy, delicious treat that brings the flavors of fall right to your party! It’s made with rich pumpkin, fluffy cream, and warm spices that make it taste oh-so-good.
Pair it with crispy apple slices or buttery crackers for a fun snack! I love making it for gatherings—it’s a hit every time, and I can’t help but sneak in a few bites while serving! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin puree: Canned pumpkin puree is convenient and has a smooth texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can use fresh pumpkin that’s been cooked and mashed, but be sure to strain out excess moisture for the best results.
Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese creates the dip’s creamy base. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt. They offer a similar texture with fewer calories, making it a healthier choice.
Powdered sugar: I use powdered sugar for sweetness because it blends seamlessly into the dip. If you prefer a healthier substitute, maple syrup or honey works nicely, just adjust the amount to taste.
Spices: The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves provides that classic fall flavor. You can use pumpkin pie spice as a one-stop substitute, and I recommend adding a dash more if you really love those warm flavors!
Heavy whipping cream: This is crucial for a light and airy texture. If you’d like a lower-fat option, consider using whipped coconut cream or light whipped topping, but be aware that the flavor may differ a bit.
How Do I Make Sure My Whipped Cream Is Fluffy?
Whipping the cream to stiff peaks is essential for the perfect airy texture in your mousse dip. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with cold cream. Chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for about 10 minutes for even better results.
- Beat the cream on medium speed at first until it starts to thicken, then increase to high speed.
- Watch carefully! Stop when the cream holds peaks and looks fluffy. It should not look soupy or grainy.
- Gently fold it into your pumpkin mixture. Use a spatula and be gentle to keep that lovely airiness!
Remember, if you overbeat the cream, it can turn into butter, so keep an eye on it!
How to Make Pumpkin Mousse Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- Optional: additional cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Pumpkin Mousse Dip takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then needs at least 1 hour in the refrigerator to chill. So, in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Perfect for making ahead of time before your gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Base:
In a large mixing bowl, start by beating the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it’s nice and smooth. This step is key for a creamy dip!
2. Mix in the Pumpkin and Spices:
Next, add in the canned pumpkin puree, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Beat everything together until it’s well combined and smooth. You’ll love the aroma that fills your kitchen!
3. Whip the Cream:
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. This will create that light and airy texture in your dip. Remember, stop whipping just when the cream can hold its shape—watch out for overbeating!
4. Combine the Mixtures:
Gently fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin mixture. Use a spatula and be careful not to deflate the whipped cream too much. We want to keep that fluffy texture!
5. Transfer and Garnish:
Now, transfer the pumpkin mousse dip to a serving bowl. Smooth the top with your spatula, and if you like, sprinkle some extra cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice on top for a lovely touch.
6. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the bowl and put it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This wait allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
7. Serve With Something Delicious:
When ready, serve the pumpkin mousse dip with your favorite dippers—think crunchy crackers, sweet apple slices, or even graham crackers. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned Puree?
Absolutely! If you’re using fresh pumpkin, make sure to cook it until tender, then mash and strain it to remove excess moisture. This will help achieve a similar texture to canned pumpkin puree.
How Long Does the Pumpkin Mousse Dip Last?
The dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again, as it may thicken slightly.
Can I Make This Dip Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use coconut cream or a dairy-free whipped topping instead of heavy cream. You’ll still get a delicious result!
What Should I Serve With Pumpkin Mousse Dip?
This dip pairs wonderfully with a variety of dippers! Try serving it with apple slices, graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or even pretzels for a sweet and salty combination.
