Marshmallow Pumpkin Dip

Thanksgiving is hands down my favorite holiday, mainly, I suppose, because it is centered around eating.  Roast turkey and mashed potatoes are at the top of my very long list of favorite foods and when you add in the fact that you are with family and friends without the stress of gift giving, everyone just relaxes and has a great time.  I am a firm believer in tradition, but Thanksgiving is where I love to mix it up.  With the exception of a great bird (I like it plain and simple) and creamy mashed potatoes, everything else on the menu is subject to change.  I do like to serve some sort of pumpkin dessert, but not necessarily pie.  If I was allowed I would leave off the stuffing completely, and the fact that my husband likes green bean casserole sooo much causes me significant misery.  I like it too, but if I never ate it again, it would be too soon!  Do something different people!  There are so many amazing dishes out there just waiting for you to try.  My only advice is to test the recipe before you serve it to a crowd of people.  You don’t want to experiment with Braised Brussels Sprouts and Bacon, only to discover that the recipe has too much vinegar in it and no one can eat it.  While these episodes make for a memorable holiday, they add stress too.  Something we all wish to avoid at large family gatherings.

Expecting a crowd?  Feed them Marshmallow Pumpkin Dip while they watch the game and wait for the main meal.  It has all the flavors of the season but mixes up a lot faster than a pie.  I made this a few days ago and we all really liked it, even the kids.  I have no idea where I got this recipe or even how long I have had it, but it is cut from a magazine.  Anything with cream cheese catches my eye so I was particularly drawn to this recipe.  Adjust the spices as you like. Marshmallow Pumpkin Dip

1/2 c mashed pumpkin, canned or fresh
1/2 c marshmallow cream
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/8 tsp ground cloves

Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and whisk till smooth.  Serve with sliced apples and crunchy gingersnap cookies.  Graham crackers are great too.