When I’m invited to a party, my biggest concern is, “What should I take?” My go-to dishes are dips or cheese/cracker trays. Here’s why: they’re easy, quick, and pretty inexpensive to make.
I went to a party this weekend and took one of my favorite dips, especially for fall: Perfect Party Pumpkin Dip. You can make this in under 5 minutes for under $10.
Here are the ingredients:
- 15 oz. can pure pumpkin purée
- 2 – 8 oz. packages Neufchâtel cheese softened (this is a lighter substitute for cream cheese)
- 2 cups confectioners sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- Optional: candy corns or seasonal candies for added color on plate
You’ll also need something for dipping. I prefer ginger snap cookies and graham crackers.
Follow these three simple steps to make the dip.
Step 1: Combine the pumpkin purée and Neufchâtel cheese in a large bowl. Mix with a hand mixer until smooth.
Step 2: Add sugar, cinnamon, and ginger. Mix with a hand mixer until everything is combined.
Step 3: Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour.
That’s it! Now it’s time to plate your dip. I am a HUGE fan of the Dollar Tree. I buy so many things from there when I host parties or am going to a party. Their containers are sturdy, look nice, and can be left behind at another hostess’s house without worrying about getting it back because they only cost $1.00!
I chose a bowl for the dip and put it on a platter. I then surrounded the bowl with the cookies and crackers. As a final touch, I added Autumn Mix candy corns. I know not everyone loves them, but they add a pop of color to a very brown plate, and there’s always someone who does enjoy them!
Finally, I wrap the platter with saran wrap, but I include a plastic spoon. This way the hostess doesn’t have to scramble to find a serving spoon when she’s busy greeting guests.
I was able to create this final platter for under $10. I purchase store brand for most of my ingredients because they taste exactly the same as the name brand and cost a fraction of the price. This dish is definitely kid approved, too! Next time you’re invited to a party for fall, try this super simple recipe.
I believe your clear and concise presentation would get a thumbs up from Martha Stewart.