
Everyone in my house looks forward to this Pumpkin Pie Dip as soon as fall weather hits. It takes just a handful of easy ingredients and gives you all the cozy dessert flavors of pumpkin pie without having to heat up the oven. Pile it up with fruit graham crackers or cookies and you have a seasonal treat in almost no time.
My family always asks for this dip at our fall gatherings. I first made it for a Halloween party and watched the bowl empty in minutes. Now it is a must every year.
Ingredients
- Pumpkin puree: gives the dip its classic pumpkin flavor and creamy texture look for canned pumpkin not pumpkin pie filling and go for deep orange color for best flavor
- Cream cheese: brings essential tang and helps the dip stay thick and spreadable I like to use full fat for extra creaminess and room temperature cream cheese blends best
- Pumpkin spice: adds warm spice notes check the blend for quality cinnamon nutmeg ginger and clove or make your own to taste
- Powdered sugar: provides just the right sweetness and helps keep the dip fluffy sift before using for the smoothest texture
- Vanilla extract: rounds out the flavor profile with a gentle depth choose real vanilla rather than imitation for a richer result
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Base:
- Combine the pumpkin puree and cream cheese in a large mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for best texture and blend on medium speed until completely smooth. This step makes the dip creamy and removes any lumps from the cream cheese.
- Add the Flavors:
- Add the powdered sugar pumpkin spice and vanilla extract to the bowl. Beat again until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl halfway through to ensure an even blend. At this point taste to see if you want a little extra spice or sweetness.
- Chill and Thicken:
- Transfer the dip to an airtight container or simply cover your mixing bowl. Place in the refrigerator and let sit for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours. This helps the flavors meld and the dip to thicken naturally making it easier to scoop.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Give the chilled dip a quick stir before serving. Spoon into a bowl and surround with your favorite dippers such as graham crackers vanilla wafers pretzels sliced apples or pears. Set out with a spreader or small spoon for easy snacking.

The rich tang of the cream cheese stands out in every bite which is why this dip feels extra satisfying. I once brought this to a family gathering and ended up emailing the recipe to half the guests before the night was over.
Storage Tips
Keep extra dip in a tightly sealed container in your fridge. It will hold up well for four to five days. Stir before serving if any liquid separates on top.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer a non dairy version try coconut cream cheese and plant based vanilla extract. You can swap in maple syrup for part of the powdered sugar to give a deeper flavor and natural sweetness but reduce the pumpkin puree a bit so it is not too liquid.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pumpkin dip with crisp apple slices for a lighter bite or dip chocolate graham crackers for an extra indulgent treat. The combination of spice and creaminess pairs well with a wide range of both sweet and salty options.

Pumpkin in American Fall Traditions
Pumpkin is a classic flavor of autumn in America and shows up everywhere from coffee shops to bakery counters. Dishes like this dip are perfect for gatherings and make it easy to share a taste of the season without a lot of work in the kitchen.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Is it necessary to drain pumpkin puree before mixing?
Draining is optional. For a thicker dip, you can strain the puree using a cheesecloth to remove excess water, but it's not required.
- → What can I pair with this dip?
This dip is great with cookies, graham crackers, fresh fruit, or pretzels—offering both sweet and salty options.
- → Can homemade pumpkin puree be used?
Yes, homemade puree is fine. Use sugar or pie pumpkins, roast until tender, scoop out the flesh, and puree until smooth.
- → Why shouldn't pumpkin pie filling be used?
Pumpkin pie filling contains extra liquid and spices, which can make the dip runny and affect flavor balance.
- → Should the dip be chilled before serving?
Chilling is highly recommended. It helps the dip thicken and lets the flavors blend for a better taste experience.
- → How should leftover dip be stored?
Leftover dip should be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator and will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days.