PUMPKIN-HARD CIDER CHEESE DIP

Pumpkin-Hard Cider Cheese Dip image

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Time 35m

Yield 6 to 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 14

4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 clove garlic, minced
1 12-ounce bottle hard cider
1/2 cup pure pumpkin puree
1 teaspoon dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Pinch of cayenne pepper
4 ounces cream cheese, cut into pieces
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (about 12 ounces)
Chopped fresh chives, for topping

Steps:

Cook the bacon in a medium skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until browned and crisp, about 7 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and garlic; cook, stirring, until incorporated, about 2 minutes. Whisk in the cider, pumpkin puree, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon salt, the pie spice and cayenne until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 3 minutes.
Gradually whisk in the cream cheese and cheddar until melted and smooth, about 2 minutes. Transfer the dip to a bowl; top with the bacon and chives.
Serve with sliced apples or raisin-nut bread.