Fruit Dips

When we have a group of people over, I almost always serve some sort of fruit dip. They make a good predinner snack because they are not too filling; they are make-ahead; they are not starchy as many appetizers are; they look great; and children will eat the fruit if not the dip. Here are some of my favorites.


Caramel Dip

1 8-oz. package of cream cheese, regular or reduced fat, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
3 T. peanut butter

Mix all ingredients with beaters or a stand mixer until light and smooth. Serve with sliced apples (dip them briefly in regular Sprite to keep them from turning brown).

Marshmallow Dip

1 8-oz. package of cream cheese, regular or reduced fat, softened
1 7-oz. jar Marshmallow Fluff, or marshmallow creme
zest of one orange

Mix all ingredients with beaters or a stand mixer until light and smooth. Serve with sliced apples, grapes, melon, pineapple, clementines, bananas, strawberries, etc.

Strawberry Dip

1 8-oz. package of strawberry cream cheese, regular or reduced fat, softened
1 7-oz. jar Marshmallow Fluff
1 8-oz. container Cool Whip, thawed
1/2 c. strawberry jam

Mix all ingredients with beaters or a stand mixer until light and smooth. Serve with sliced apples, grapes, melon, pineapple, clementines, bananas, strawberries, etc.