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Protein Pumpkin Dip with Maple Pecans Recipe

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3.9 from 7 reviews

This Protein Pumpkin Dip with Maple Pecans is a creamy, nutrient-packed autumn-inspired treat perfect for snacking or entertaining. Made with cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, pumpkin puree, and powdered peanut butter, it offers a deliciously smooth texture combined with the warm flavors of pumpkin pie spice and vanilla. Topped with maple toasted pecans that add a crunchy, caramelized touch, this dip pairs beautifully with sliced apples, graham crackers, and other dippers for a wholesome, festive snack.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Pumpkin Fluff Dip

  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/3 cup pumpkin puree
  • ½ cup powdered peanut butter (regular or pumpkin spice flavor; can substitute your favorite protein powder)
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
  • 1½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ cup marshmallow fluff

Maple Toasted Pecans

  • ½ cup chopped pecans
  • 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • Pinch of flaky sea salt

Instructions

  1. Toast Pecans: Place chopped pecans in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
  2. Caramelize Pecans: Add maple syrup and cinnamon to the pecans in the skillet. Stir continuously for 1–2 minutes until pecans are evenly coated and slightly caramelized.
  3. Cool Pecans: Transfer pecans onto parchment paper or a plate, spread evenly, and sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Set aside to cool and crisp.
  4. Blend Pumpkin Dip Base: In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, pumpkin puree, powdered peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla bean paste, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
  5. Fold in Marshmallow Fluff: Transfer pumpkin mixture to a serving bowl. Add marshmallow fluff and gently fold to create ribbons, maintaining some texture instead of blending it fully in.
  6. Assemble and Serve: Once pecans have cooled, sprinkle them generously on top of the dip. Drizzle with extra maple syrup and sprinkle cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice as desired.
  7. Serving Suggestions: Serve immediately or refrigerate until chilled. If refrigerated, add pecans just before serving. Enjoy with sliced apples, graham crackers, pretzel crisps, gingersnaps, or Biscoff cookies.

Notes

  • For best texture, add toasted pecans just before serving if you refrigerate the dip.
  • Substitute powdered peanut butter with your favorite protein powder to customize protein content and flavor.
  • Use pumpkin spice flavored powdered peanut butter for an extra seasonal twist.
  • If you prefer a vegan version, substitute cottage cheese and Greek yogurt with plant-based alternatives and use vegan marshmallow fluff.
  • Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup according to taste.
  • This dip is perfect for fall gatherings and pairs well with a variety of dippers beyond those listed.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat