Description
A festive Jack-O-Lantern Dip Bowl made from a carved pumpkin, perfect for holding savory or sweet dips at Halloween parties.
Ingredients
- 1 medium or large pumpkin (flat-bottomed)
- Serrated knife
- Sturdy spoon
- Lemon juice or olive oil (optional)
- Salt (optional)
- Foil, parchment, or plastic wrap (optional, for lining)
- Choice of dips (savory: spinach artichoke, queso, bacon cheddar; sweet: chocolate mousse, pumpkin spice pudding)
- Crackers, chips, or veggies for serving
Instructions
- Cut the top of the pumpkin at an angle to create a lid.
- Scoop out seeds and fibers with a spoon, smoothing the interior walls.
- Optionally save the seeds for roasting.
- For hot dips: place hollowed pumpkin upside down on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes to firm up.
- For cold dips: line the interior with foil, parchment, or plastic wrap.
- Brush the inside with lemon juice or olive oil to slow browning, and sprinkle with salt if desired.
- Fill the carved pumpkin with your chosen dip.
- Decorate by carving eyes and a mouth, letting the dip peek through for a festive effect.
- Serve on a platter with crackers, chips, or vegetables around the pumpkin.
Notes
Carve the pumpkin close to serving time to keep it fresh. For hot dips, baking strengthens the shell; for cold dips, lining prevents sogginess. Always wash the pumpkin before carving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes (if baking pumpkin shell)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Carving & Optional Baking
- Cuisine: Halloween