This Pumpkin Mousse Dip is super creamy and full of fall flavor! It’s made with pumpkin puree, cream cheese, and spices for that cozy taste we all love.
Serve it with graham crackers, and watch everyone come back for more! I sometimes put it in a cute bowl just for fun. Who knew pumpkin could be this delightful? 🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Canned Pumpkin Puree: Make sure to use plain pumpkin puree, not the sweetened pie filling. Fresh roasted pumpkin is a great substitute, just be sure to puree it until smooth!
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess. If you want a lighter option, try Neufchâtel cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan version.
Powdered Sugar: You can use granulated sugar if that’s all you have, but the texture won’t be as smooth. If you’re watching sugar intake, powdered Swerve or another sweetener can work!
Spices: You can adjust the spices to your taste. Freshly grated nutmeg gives a more vibrant flavor. Pumpkin pie spice can also be a simple substitute to get that fall flavor in one go!
Heavy Whipping Cream: For a lighter version, use coconut whipped cream or use less heavy cream for a thicker mousse.
How Do I Make the Mousse Light and Fluffy?
The magic of this dip lies in the whipped cream technique. Here’s how to achieve that light and fluffy texture:
- Start with cold heavy whipping cream. Chilling your mixing bowl and beaters can help achieve better results!
- Whip the cream until stiff peaks form — this means it stands tall and doesn’t droop!
- When folding the whipped cream into the pumpkin mixture, use a gentle hand. Start with a little of the whipped cream to lighten the base, then add the rest gradually. This keeps the air in the whipped cream.
Following these steps will ensure your mousse is wonderfully airy and enjoyable for dipping or just eating by the spoonful!
How to Make Pumpkin Mousse Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- Pumpkin seeds, for garnish
- Whipped cream, for garnish
- Additional cinnamon, for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pumpkin Mousse Dip takes about 20 minutes to prepare. Once you’ve mixed everything, it’s best to chill it for about 30 minutes before serving, giving it that perfect creamy texture. In total, plan for about 50 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Cream Cheese:
Begin by grabbing a large mixing bowl and beating the softened cream cheese. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend it until it becomes smooth and creamy. This will be the base of your mousse!
2. Mixing in the Pumpkin and Spices:
Next, add the canned pumpkin puree, powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix everything together until fully combined and smooth. This step brings all those lovely fall flavors together!
3. Whipping the Cream:
In a separate bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream. Use a mixer to whip it until stiff peaks form. This means that when you lift the beaters out, the cream holds its shape. It should look light and fluffy!
4. Folding the Mixtures Together:
Now comes the important part! Gently fold the whipped cream into the pumpkin mixture. Start by adding a little whipped cream to lighten the base, then slowly add the rest, being careful not to deflate the fluffy whipped cream. This is what makes the mousse airy!
5. Serving the Dip:
Once everything is well mixed and fluffy, transfer the mousse dip into a serving bowl. To make it extra special, garnish the top with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, and some pumpkin seeds.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your Pumpkin Mousse Dip immediately with apple slices, ginger snaps, or graham crackers for dipping. This delightful treat is perfect for sharing and enjoying during autumn gatherings!
Enjoy this light, airy, and flavorful Pumpkin Mousse Dip perfect for a fall gathering or dessert!
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh pumpkin, you can roast and puree it until smooth. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture for the best texture in your mousse dip.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the mousse dip a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness and texture!
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Whipping Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with whipped coconut cream or use less heavy cream for a denser texture. However, this will alter the flavor slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently stir before serving again to restore some of its creamy texture.