As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of Pumpkin Spiced Churros with Decadent Brown Sugar Caramel. When I first bit into one of these delightful treats, I was swept away by the comforting blend of spices that scream fall. Not only are these churros perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, but they also come together quickly—a must for anyone eager to trade fast food for a homemade dessert. And let’s not forget the rich brown sugar caramel that elevates every bite into a moment of pure bliss. Are you ready to take your taste buds on a cozy autumn adventure? Let’s dive in!
Why love these Pumpkin Spice Churros?
Warm, Cozy Flavors: Each bite is infused with pumpkin spice, capturing the essence of fall and wrapping you in nostalgia.
Quick and Easy: These churros can be prepared in under an hour, making them a perfect choice for spontaneous gatherings or cozy nights in.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: They’re always a hit at parties, giving guests a taste of comfort that leaves them wanting more, just like my Shawarma Bowl Flavorful dish.
Irresistibly Dippable: The pairing with velvety brown sugar caramel adds a decadent touch, transforming your dessert into an experience worth sharing.
Versatile Treats: From Thanksgiving gatherings to family movie nights, they fit right into any occasion and can even be stored for later indulgence!
Pumpkin Spice Churros Ingredients
• Ready to delight your taste buds with Pumpkin Spice Churros? Here’s what you’ll need!
For the Brown Sugar Caramel
- Dark Brown Sugar – Adds a rich depth of sweetness; substitute with light brown sugar for a lighter flavor.
- Heavy Cream – Ensures a creamy texture for the caramel; no substitutes recommended.
- Kosher Salt – Balances sweet flavors; regular table salt can be used, but reduce the amount slightly.
- Unsalted Butter – Brings richness to the caramel; if using salted butter, omit added salt.
- Vanilla Extract – Introduces a delightful floral note; consider Mexican vanilla for an extra flavor boost.
For the Churros
- Cane Sugar – Used for rolling the churros; granulated sugar works as a substitute.
- Pumpkin Spice – Essential for that fall flavor; no substitutes recommended to maintain authenticity.
- Cinnamon – Enhances the warm spiced profile; nutmeg can be used for a different twist.
- Water – The base for your churro dough; no substitutions needed.
- Unbleached All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; use gluten-free flour for a similar texture.
- Large Egg – Key for binding the dough; no substitutes as it’s crucial for consistency.
- Canola Oil – Ideal for frying; alternative options include vegetable or peanut oil.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spiced Churros
Step 1: Make Brown Sugar Caramel
In a medium saucepan over high heat, combine dark brown sugar, heavy cream, and a pinch of kosher salt. Stir continuously for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens and bubbles. Once the caramel reaches a glossy, thick consistency, remove it from the heat. Add unsalted butter and vanilla extract, stirring until completely melted. Allow it to cool slightly before transferring to an airtight jar.
Step 2: Prepare Spiced Sugar
In a shallow dish, mix together cane sugar, pumpkin spice, and a pinch of kosher salt to create the spiced sugar mixture. Set this aside as you will use it to coat the churros once they are fried. The sugar should have a fragrant aroma from the pumpkin spice, giving you a preview of the delicious Pumpkin Spiced Churros to come.
Step 3: Make Churro Dough
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine water, sugar, a pinch of salt, and unsalted butter. Stir until boiling, then reduce the heat to low. In a separate bowl, whisk together unbleached all-purpose flour, pumpkin spice, and cinnamon. Carefully add the flour mixture to the boiling mixture, stirring vigorously until it forms a coherent dough ball. Allow it to cool for about 5 minutes, giving it time for easier handling.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Once the dough has cooled slightly, incorporate a beaten large egg and a splash of vanilla extract into the mixture. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a smooth and consistent dough, ensuring there are no lumps. This step is crucial for the creamy texture of your Pumpkin Spiced Churros that will be crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Step 5: Fry Churros
In a deep skillet, heat canola oil to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it’s hot enough for frying. Using a piping bag fitted with a star tip, pipe 5 to 6-inch lengths of churro dough directly into the hot oil. Cut the dough with scissors, frying for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Once cooked, transfer the churros to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil, ensuring they stay crispy.
Step 6: Coat and Serve
Immediately after frying, roll each churro in the prepared spiced sugar mixture, coating them generously for that perfect sweet crunch. Serve the warm Pumpkin Spiced Churros alongside the decadent brown sugar caramel for dipping, allowing their delightful flavors to shine. These treats are perfect for sharing at gatherings or cozy nights in, bringing warmth and sweetness to any occasion.
Pumpkin Spice Churros Variations
Feel free to explore your creativity with these Pumpkin Spice Churros, adding your own flair to this delightful treat!
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Chocolate Twist: Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the churro dough for a delicious chocolatey version. The chocolate pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin spice and caramel.
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Nutty Flavor: Mix in ¼ cup finely chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the dough for added texture and a nutty crunch. It’s a delightful surprise with each bite.
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Coconut Sugar: Substitute cane sugar with coconut sugar for a unique flavor twist while making them a bit healthier. The slight caramel taste of coconut sugar deepens the complexity!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the sugar mixture for an unexpected kick that perfectly complements the sweetness. The warmth will keep you cozy!
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Cinnamon Sugar: Enhance the churros with a cinnamon sugar sprinkle after frying. Simply combine sugar and ground cinnamon for added sweetness and aroma.
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Fruit-filled Surprise: Pipe some apple or pumpkin puree into the center of each churro before frying for a sweet fruit surprise inside. It’s like having two desserts in one!
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Herbal Infusion: Include a touch of fresh rosemary or thyme into the batter for an intriguing herbaceous flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweet caramel.
These variations ensure that you can enjoy these Pumpkin Spice Churros in multiple ways, just like enjoying a warm cup of Joumou Haitian Pumpkin soup or a delightful Shawarma Bowl Flavorful for a complete cozy experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Spice Churros are an excellent choice for meal prep, making your autumn gatherings a breeze! You can prepare the churro dough and refrigerate it for up to 8 hours without compromising quality. Simply store it in an airtight container to keep the moisture intact. Additionally, whip up the rich brown sugar caramel 1-2 days in advance and refrigerate it in a covered jar; it’ll remain just as delicious! When you’re ready to serve, heat the caramel gently and fry the churros fresh from the fridge for that signature crispy texture. This way, you can enjoy warm, delightful Pumpkin Spice Churros without any last-minute hassle!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Churros
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Perfect Piping Height: Use a piping bag with a star tip to create that classic churro shape. The star tip helps the sugar adhere beautifully.
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Avoid Sogginess: Don’t double the batter; excess moisture from the eggs can lead to soggy churros. Stick to the given quantity for best results.
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Oil Temperature Check: Always check the oil temperature before frying! If it’s not hot enough, the churros may absorb too much oil and lose their crispiness.
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Quick Cooling Technique: Allow the churro dough to cool for just 5 minutes before adding the egg. This prevents cooking the egg and ensures your Pumpkin Spice Churros are light and airy.
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Flavor Variations: Feeling adventurous? Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the dough for chocolate-spiced churros, giving them a delightful twist.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Spiced Churros with Decadent Brown Sugar Caramel
As the warmth of pumpkin spice fills the air, it’s time to create the perfect ensemble that takes your dessert experience to the next level.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creamy texture complements the warm churros beautifully, creating a pleasing contrast of temperatures.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: A steaming mug of hot chocolate adds a decadent touch, enhancing the cozy autumn feel of your meal.
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Spiced Apple Cider: This drink offers a warm, fruity balance that pairs perfectly with the churros’ crispy texture and spiced flavor.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream provides a delightful topping, adding an extra layer of richness without overpowering the flavors.
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Maple Syrup: A drizzle of pure maple syrup brings a natural sweetness that elevates the churros’ flavors while adding a touch of fall.
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Pumpkin Pie: For those who can’t get enough pumpkin, serve these churros alongside slices of classic pumpkin pie, doubling down on your fall flavors.
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Pecan Pie: The nutty sweetness of pecans perfectly contrasts the churros, creating a dessert table that celebrates the season.
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Chai Tea: The warm spices of chai tea meld beautifully with the pumpkin spice churros, offering a soothing beverage option to round out your meal.
Storage Tips for Pumpkin Spice Churros
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Room Temperature: Enjoy your Pumpkin Spice Churros fresh for the best flavor and texture. If you need to store them, keep them at room temperature for up to 1 day in a cool, dry place.
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Fridge: If you have leftovers, refrigerate the churros in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Reheat gently in the microwave to regain some crispiness.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the churros in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
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Caramel Storage: The brown sugar caramel can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Reheat in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring until warm before serving.
Pumpkin Spice Churros with Velvety Brown Sugar Caramel Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ripeness of pumpkin for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for a sugar pumpkin or pie pumpkin—these are sweeter and have a smoother texture. When selecting, look for firm pumpkins with a hard, blemish-free skin. Avoid any with soft spots or dark blemishes, as these indicate overripeness.
What is the best way to store leftover churros?
The more the merrier! For maximum freshness, keep your Pumpkin Spice Churros at room temperature for up to 1 day in a cool, dry place. If you need to store them longer, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave to restore some of their original crispiness!
Can I freeze the churros for later enjoyment?
Absolutely! To freeze your churros, lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. To enjoy, reheat them directly from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain that crispy texture.
What should I do if my churro dough is too runny?
No worries! If your dough is too runny, it could be due to excess moisture. To fix this, add a couple of tablespoons of flour gradually until you reach the right consistency—firm enough to hold its shape but still smooth. Make sure your wet ingredients are measured accurately when you prepare the dough.
Can I make these churros gluten-free?
Very much so! If you’d like to prepare gluten-free Pumpkin Spice Churros, simply substitute the unbleached all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t include it naturally to help mimic the structure and texture of traditional flour.
Is it safe to serve these churros to dogs?
While your furry friends might be curious about that sweet smell, it’s best to keep these treats away from them. The spices and sugar can upset a dog’s stomach. Additionally, the fried texture can pose a choking hazard, so save these delightful churros just for you and your family!
Pumpkin Spice Churros with Velvety Brown Sugar Caramel
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan over high heat, combine dark brown sugar, heavy cream, and a pinch of kosher salt. Stir continuously for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens and bubbles. Once the caramel reaches a glossy, thick consistency, remove it from the heat. Add unsalted butter and vanilla extract, stirring until completely melted. Allow it to cool slightly before transferring to an airtight jar.
- In a shallow dish, mix together cane sugar, pumpkin spice, and a pinch of kosher salt to create the spiced sugar mixture. Set this aside as you will use it to coat the churros once they are fried.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine water, sugar, a pinch of salt, and unsalted butter. Stir until boiling, then reduce the heat to low. In a separate bowl, whisk together unbleached all-purpose flour, pumpkin spice, and cinnamon. Carefully add the flour mixture to the boiling mixture, stirring vigorously until it forms a coherent dough ball. Allow it to cool for about 5 minutes.
- Incorporate a beaten large egg and a splash of vanilla extract into the dough mixture. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a smooth and consistent dough, ensuring there are no lumps.
- In a deep skillet, heat canola oil to 350°F (175°C). Using a piping bag fitted with a star tip, pipe 5 to 6-inch lengths of churro dough into the hot oil. Cut the dough with scissors, frying for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Immediately after frying, roll each churro in the spiced sugar mixture, coating them generously. Serve warm with the brown sugar caramel for dipping.