Name: Bloody Beet Hummus with Cheese Web: A Spooky Delight!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 2 medium beets (peeled and diced); 1 can chickpeas (drained); 2 tablespoons tahini; 2 cloves garlic (fresh); 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 ounces cream cheese (or vegan cream cheese); 1 cup shredded mozzarella or vegan cheese; 1 teaspoon paprika; 4 number olives (black or green)

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As the crisp autumn air sweeps in, it’s time to conjure up some spooky delights for Halloween gatherings! I’m excited to share my favorite recipe: Bloody Beet Hummus with Cheese Web, perfect for impressing friends and family without a ton of fuss. This vibrant dip not only adds a dash of color to your table but is also incredibly easy to whip up, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones. With both vegan options and a rich creaminess from cheese, it caters to various taste buds while delivering a fun twist on classic party snacks. So, are you ready to serve a dish that’s as playful as it is delicious? Let’s dive into these hauntingly good recipes!

Why is Bloody Beet Hummus a Must-Try?

Vibrant Color: The stunning red hue makes it a showstopper at any gathering, adding a festive touch to your spread.

Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients, this dip comes together quickly, giving you more time to enjoy with friends.

Flavorful Balance: Earthy beet flavor combined with creamy cheese creates a rich, savory dip that pairs perfectly with fresh veggies or chips.

Versatile Options: Offering both vegan alternatives and creamy variations ensures there’s something for everyone.

Spooky Presentation: The cheese web design adds a fun, playful element, making it a hit with kids and adults alike!

Looking for more delicious dips? Check out my Cottage Cheese Raspberry for a sweet twist or explore these unique ideas for your Halloween festivities!

Bloody Beet Hummus Ingredients

• Get ready for a deliciously spooky experience with my Bloody Beet Hummus!

For the Hummus

Beets – Packed with nutrients, beets provide that striking red color and earthy flavor.
Chickpeas – These legumes create a creamy base, lending protein and texture to the dip.
Tahini – Helps to achieve a velvety consistency while adding nutty flavor.
Garlic – A touch of fresh garlic enhances the overall flavor; feel free to reduce for a milder taste.
Lemon Juice – Brightens the dip with that zesty kick; fresh juice is always best!
Olive Oil – Drizzle in some high-quality olive oil for extra richness and smoothness.

For the Cheese Web

Cream Cheese – Provides a decadent, creamy element perfect for decorating; swap with vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
Shredded Mozzarella or Vegan Cheese – This meltable cheese creates that spooky web effect on top of the hummus.

Optional Garnishes

Paprika – Sprinkle for a pop of color and a smoky note; also visually appealing!
Olives – To decorate with “spider” designs, use black or green olives based on your preference.

Dig into this Bloody Beet Hummus with Cheese Web for a seasonal snack that’s fun, vibrant, and irresistibly tasty!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bloody Beet Hummus with Cheese Web

Step 1: Prepare the Hummus Base
Start by peeling and dicing two medium-sized beets, then steam or roast them for about 20 minutes until they’re tender. In a food processor, combine the cooked beets, one can of drained chickpeas, two tablespoons of tahini, two cloves of garlic, the juice of one lemon, and a generous drizzle of olive oil. Pulse until the mixture is smooth and creamy, adjusting the consistency with water as needed.

Step 2: Adjust Seasoning
Taste your Bloody Beet Hummus and season it with salt and pepper to your liking. If you prefer a little more zing, add an extra squeeze of lemon juice. Blend again to incorporate the flavors fully, ensuring the dip is both vibrant and delicious. Place the hummus into a decorative serving bowl, creating a slight dip in the center for the cheese web.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Web
For the cheese web, soften four ounces of cream cheese in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until it’s spreadable. Spread the cream cheese over the surface of the hummus in a spider web pattern, using a spatula or the back of a spoon to create the design. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or vegan cheese over the cream cheese for that spooky effect, ensuring it’s evenly distributed across the top.

Step 4: Final Touches and Garnishing
To make your creation even spookier, use sliced olives to replicate spiders, placing them on the hummus. A sprinkle of paprika on the hummus can enhance the visual appeal while adding a pop of smoky flavor. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld and the cheese set slightly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
When ready to serve, arrange your favorite dippers like colorful vegetable sticks or creepy-shaped crackers around the Bloody Beet Hummus with Cheese Web. This vibrant centerpiece is perfect for Halloween gatherings, enticing your guests with its rich, creamy texture and festive flair. Enjoy the fun and flavor as you dive into this delightful dip!

Bloody Beet Hummus Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to give this dip a twist or make it your own with these fun variations!

Vegan Cheese: Substitute cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese option to keep it dairy-free while maintaining creaminess.
Different Beans: Swap chickpeas for white beans for a creamier texture; cannellini beans work beautifully! This twist also adds unique depth to the flavor.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for an extra kick; it creates a delicious contrast to the sweetness of the beets.
Herbed Delight: Mix in fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a fresh burst of flavor that brightens the dip—ideal for herb lovers!
Nutty Twist: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for added crunch and nutrition. These will give the hummus a delightful texture variation!
Sweet and Savory: For a sweet touch, add a spoonful of maple syrup or honey, creating a lovely balance against the earthy beets. It’s an unexpected yet fabulous combination.
Creamy Avocado: Blend in half an avocado for a richer, creamier dip that’s loaded with healthy fats; it makes the hummus smooth and velvety.
Pumpkin Spice: Embrace the season by incorporating canned pumpkin with a pinch of nutmeg and cinnamon—perfect for festive gatherings!

For more delightful dips, don’t miss my No-Bake Cheesecake or give the No-Bake Oreo Cheesecake a try for a sweet treat!

How to Store and Freeze Bloody Beet Hummus

Fridge: Store your Bloody Beet Hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for snacking or entertaining!

Freezer: If you want to make it ahead of time, freeze the hummus without the cheese web for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight when ready to use.

Reheating: Simply mix the thawed hummus well, adding a little olive oil or water if needed for a smoother consistency before serving.

Cheese Web: Add the cheese web decoration fresh right before serving for the best visual impact; frozen cheese may lose its texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Bloody Beet Hummus with Cheese Web is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts wanting to save time during the busy Halloween season! You can prepare the hummus base up to 24 hours in advance by blending all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the cheese web, create the design ahead and refrigerate it separately for up to 3 days; to maintain its texture, keep it covered with plastic wrap. When ready to serve, simply layer the cheese web on top of the hummus and add your olive “spiders” for a fresh, spooky presentation! This way, you’ll have a stunning dip ready with minimal effort.

Helpful Tricks for Bloody Beet Hummus

Perfect Texture: Adjust the water: If your hummus isn’t as creamy as you’d like, add a tablespoon of water at a time and blend until smooth.
Chilling Time: Enhance flavors: Allow the Bloody Beet Hummus to chill for at least 30 minutes after preparation for the best-tasting results.
Season to Taste: Flavor boost: Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasoning! A bit more salt or lemon juice can elevate your beet hummus to new heights.
Decorative Ideas: Festive toppings: Get creative with the cheese web and additional garnishes, like herbs or more colorful veggies, to make a spookier presentation.
Avoiding Mess: Clean handling: When using cream cheese for the web, keep a clean spatula at hand to avoid mixing with the hummus base.

What to Serve with Bloody Beet Hummus with Cheese Web?

Indulge in a Halloween-inspired feast that brings together delightful textures, flavors, and festive spirit, all perfectly paired with this vibrant dip.

Crispy Pita Chips: These crunchy delights provide the perfect scoopable balance to the smoothness of the hummus, complementing its earthy flavor beautifully.
Vegetable Crudités: A colorful array of fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers not only add a refreshing crunch but also bring brightness to your Halloween spread.
Spooky-Shaped Crackers: Fun-shaped crackers can turn your table into a playful scene! Their crispy texture elevates the dip experience while enhancing the festive vibe.
Cheese Platter: Serve alongside a selection of cheeses—cheddar and gouda work wonderfully. Their richness will contrast delightfully with the tangy beet hummus.
Apple Slices: The crisp, sweet flavor of apples adds a surprising twist that harmonizes with the earthy notes of beet, creating a delightful contrast of flavors.
Festive Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy and seasoned, these add an extra layer of flavor that echoes the chickpeas in the hummus, making for a cohesive snacking experience.
Sparkling Cider: A refreshing, non-alcoholic option that pairs well with the savory flavors of the hummus. Its fizz adds a celebratory touch to your gathering.
Pumpkin Spice Mini Muffins: Incorporate some sweetness with these moist treats—tying in the fall spirit and offering a playful counterbalance to the savory dip.
Ghoulish Gummy Worms: For dessert, these can serve as a cheeky side for kids and adults alike, combining a spooky theme with a chewy, fun treat at your Halloween party.

Bloody Beet Hummus with Cheese Web Recipe FAQs

How should I select beets for the hummus?
Absolutely! When choosing beets, look for firm, medium-sized bulbs without dark spots or soft areas. The skin should be smooth and vibrant in color. Small to medium-sized beets are the sweetest, making them perfect for your Bloody Beet Hummus.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store your Bloody Beet Hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and flavorful, ready for snacking or surprising guests! If you’re sharing with friends, make sure to label the container so everyone knows what’s inside!

Can I freeze the hummus?
Certainly! To freeze your Bloody Beet Hummus, skip adding the cheese web decoration first. Transfer the hummus to an airtight container or freezer bag and store it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Before serving, mix well and drizzle in a bit of olive oil or water to restore the creamy consistency.

How can I troubleshoot if my hummus isn’t smooth enough?
If your hummus isn’t as creamy as expected, fear not! Simply add a tablespoon of water or olive oil at a time, blending thoroughly until you achieve the desired texture. Also, make sure beets and chickpeas are thoroughly blended—this step is key to a velvety finish!

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, indeed! You can easily adapt this recipe to be vegan-friendly by substituting the cream cheese with vegan cream cheese. Additionally, make sure to use a dairy-free mozzarella alternative for the cheese web. This way, everyone can enjoy the spooky deliciousness!

Can I add different spices or flavors to the hummus?
Very much so! Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices like smoked paprika or cumin for extra depth. If you like things a bit spicier, a pinch of cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor profile. Adjust seasoning to your personal taste for a hummus that truly reflects your style!