Delighted by Hummus on Shark Tank: Key Highlights

  • Founder: Makenzie Marzluff
  • Appeared on: “Shark Tank” Season 9, Week 3
  • Product: Dessert hummus with flavors like vanilla bean, snickerdoodle, choc-o-mint, and brownie batter.
  • Status: Available in stores nationwide; not online.
  • Shark Tank Deal: Accepted $600,000 for 25% equity from Mark Cuban.
  • Impact: Significant increase in awareness, social media engagement, and retailer interest post-episode.
  • Next Steps: Aim for national distribution and mainstream recognition of dessert hummus category.

Quick Company Overview

Delighted by Hummus puts a sweet spin on traditional hummus spreads. The chickpea-based dessert hummus uses cinnamon and vanilla beans in place of garlic and lemon, according to their website, to create a delicious new treat.

Their mission “is to inspire people to spread their glitter” and “be the light they are out in the world.” Flavors include vanilla bean, snickerdoodle, choc-o-mint and brownie batter, which are all vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free and all natural. The hummus is not currently available to purchase online, however, the dessert spreads are available in stores nationwide.

When Marzluff originally appeared on “Shark Tank,” she came in asking for $600,000 for 12 percent equity.

The sharks all agreed that the dessert hummus was delicious, however, Barbara Corcoran, Lori Greiner and guest shark Alex Rodriguez saw too many challenges and went out. Marzluff received two offers: one from Kevin O’Leary as a loan for $600,000 at 11 percent interest with six percent equity, and the other from Mark Cuban for $600,000 for 25 percent.

Ultimately, she accepted a deal with Cuban.

Marzluff spoke with Business 2 Community about Delighted by Hummus’ experience on the show and what their next steps are. Take a look at the Q&A below:

Q&A with Delighted by Hummus’ Founder Makenzie Marzluff

What was your strategy for navigating “Shark Tank”?

I didn’t have a strategy per se—my intention was to be authentic and to connect with the sharks while sharing something I’m passionate about. I knew that our business was a great investment opportunity because of how unique it is and the fact it is already thriving.

How has Delighted by Hummus changed since the episode was first recorded? Since it aired?

Overnight, the awareness and education about our product tripled or quadrupled. User engagement on social media has gone up a ton. Orders have increased and so has the interest from new retailers. We have also hired a larger team.

Is there anything you would have changed about your time spent in the tank, including your pitch and valuation?

No, I think it all went really well. I wasn’t expecting to have that much pressure all at one time, so maybe preparing myself for the emotional impact would have helped!

Who’s your favorite shark?

Barbara has always been my favorite since I was younger, but I honestly love them all.

Do you think “Shark Tank” was the right move for your business?

Absolutely. The awareness is unlike anything else we could’ve been given.

What are Delighted by Hummus’ next steps?

National distribution.

Where do you see this industry in 5-10 years?

I see dessert hummus being a mainstream category of its own. As a whole, for the food industry, I see more online shopping and less middlemen.

What would you say to people who want to start their own business?

Every challenge is an opportunity to go inward and grow. Any time something comes up in business that you may not like, it’s an opportunity to surrender, listen and trust.

What advice would you give to entrepreneurs who want to make it on “Shark Tank”?

Go very gentle on yourself. It’s very intense in there, so don’t downplay the emotional impact it will have on your body once leaving. Go easy and never forget —your business is YOUR vision; don’t let anyone take that away from you.

Responses have been lightly edited for clarity and length

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