The aroma of spices wafting through the kitchen can transport you right to the heart of fall, can’t it? That first bite of my Baked Pumpkin Churros encapsulates everything I adore about the season: the crispness outside and the warm, tender inside, infused with rich pumpkin and cozy spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. As a delightful twist on the traditional Mexican treat, these churros are not only easier to whip up without the greasy mess of frying, but they also deliver a comfort-food experience that’s hard to resist. Perfect for cozy gatherings or a sweet pick-me-up with coffee, you won’t want to miss this modern fall favorite. Are you ready to dive into the world of deliciously baked treats?
Why Are Baked Pumpkin Churros Amazingly Delicious?
Indulgent Taste: These churros combine the rich sweetness of pumpkin with the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a flavor profile that’s warmly inviting.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can master these treats.
Less Mess: Say goodbye to the hassle of frying! Baking provides that delightful crispiness without the greasy cleanup.
Perfect for Sharing: These delightful churros are ideal for gatherings or a cozy night in, pairing wonderfully with coffee or hot chocolate.
Versatile Delights: Whether you serve them plain, with chocolate sauce, or a spiced apple sauce, they’re sure to please everyone’s palate!
Baked Pumpkin Churros Ingredients
Get ready to bring the warmth of fall into your kitchen with these delightful churros!
For the Dough
- Water – Provides moisture to create a perfect churro dough.
- Canned Pumpkin – Adds that signature autumn flavor; fresh pumpkin puree works too but may change texture.
- Unsalted Butter – Enhances richness; substitute with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Light Brown Sugar – Offers sweetness with a touch of molasses flavor; white sugar can be used but may affect taste.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness; sea salt is a suitable alternative.
- Ground Cinnamon – Essential for that warm spice flavor; consider pumpkin pie spice as a substitute.
- Ground Nutmeg – Adds warmth to the mix; it can be omitted if needed but will reduce flavor complexity.
- Ground Ginger – Contributes to the spiced flavor profile; ground cardamom works as an interesting substitute.
- Ground Cloves – Complements the fall spices; if unavailable, omit or use allspice instead.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; imitation vanilla can be used or omitted if desired.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides essential structure; gluten-free flour may be used but might alter the texture.
- Large Eggs – Binds the dough together for perfect churros; you can substitute with flax eggs for a vegan option.
For the Coating
- Granulated Sugar – For coating after baking to add sweetness and texture; coconut sugar is a great alternative.
- Melted Unsalted Butter – For brushing before coating, enhancing the flavor; vegan butter is a dairy-free option.
For Serving
- Hot Fudge Sauce – Optional for a rich dip, adds indulgence; caramel sauce is another delightful choice.
Embrace the joy of making Baked Pumpkin Churros this fall—your taste buds will thank you!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Pumpkin Churros
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is warming up, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will ensure your Baked Pumpkin Churros come out perfectly crisp and delightful.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of canned pumpkin, ½ cup of unsalted butter, ⅓ cup of light brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Heat this mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently until it reaches a boil. This step infuses the pumpkin flavor and melts the butter, creating a wonderful aromatic foundation for your churros.
Step 3: Make the Churro Dough
Once the mixture is boiling, remove it from heat and gradually add 1 cup of all-purpose flour. Stir vigorously for about 1 minute until a smooth dough forms. It should pull away from the edges of the saucepan and resemble a cohesive ball. This consistency is crucial for piping your Baked Pumpkin Churros.
Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs
Transfer the dough to a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Mix in 2 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This process takes about 2-3 minutes. The dough will transform into a silky and smooth mixture, perfect for piping.
Step 5: Pipe the Dough
Using a pastry bag fitted with a star tip, fill the bag with the prepared dough. Carefully pipe strips of dough onto the lined baking sheet. Aim for 4 to 6 inches in length, maintaining even spacing to avoid sticking while baking. This step allows your Baked Pumpkin Churros to take shape before they rise in the oven.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the churros for 28–33 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them; they should puff up and create a beautiful golden hue. This baking time is what makes them crisp on the outside while remaining fluffy inside.
Step 7: Mix Cinnamon Sugar
While the churros are baking, prepare the coating by mixing ½ cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon in a shallow dish. This mixture will add a delightful sweetness to the churros once they come out of the oven, enhancing the fall flavors of the Baked Pumpkin Churros.
Step 8: Brush and Coat the Churros
Once baked, remove the churros from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two. Quickly brush them with ¼ cup of melted unsalted butter, allowing it to soak into the hot churros. Roll each churro in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring they are fully coated to deliver the perfect sweet crunch.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your warm Baked Pumpkin Churros immediately, with optional toppings like hot fudge sauce or caramel for dipping. They’re best enjoyed fresh, allowing the delicious flavors of pumpkin and spices to meld perfectly in every bite. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this cozy autumn dessert!
How to Store and Freeze Baked Pumpkin Churros
Room Temperature: Store leftover churros in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed fresh to maintain their delightful texture.
Fridge: If storing in the fridge, make sure to place them in an airtight container. They can last for up to 4 days, but please note they may lose some crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze churros in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place frozen churros directly on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–12 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy your Baked Pumpkin Churros with a hot dessert sauce for the best experience!
What to Serve with Baked Pumpkin Churros
The sweet, spiced aroma of freshly baked pumpkin churros fills your kitchen, inviting you to create a complete autumnal feast.
- Cinnamon Hot Chocolate: A rich and velvety drink that enhances the flavors of autumn spices, pairing perfectly with the churros’ sweetness.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it adds a creamy contrast to the crispy churros. A dollop on top can elevate this dessert experience!
- Spiced Apple Sauce: This warm, fruity addition creates a delightful contrast to the churros’ texture and flavor, making for a comforting pairing.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool treat beautifully balances the warmth of the churros, creating a delightful bite every time.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: Perfect for the season, the coffee’s warmth and spice will complement your churros, making each sip a cozy delight.
- Churro Dipping Sauce: Consider caramel or chocolate fudge for dipping, amplifying the indulgence and inviting different flavor dimensions.
- Cream Cheese Dip: A sweetened cream cheese dip can provide a tangy counterbalance to the sweetness of the churros, making for an unexpected but delightful pairing.
- Roasted Pecans: The crunchy texture and nutty flavor offer a nice contrast, bringing an earthy depth to each bite of churro. Each component is designed to enhance the charms of your homemade baked pumpkin churros!
Baked Pumpkin Churros: Endless Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Baked Pumpkin Churros and explore different flavors and options for an even more delightful treat!
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Mini Churros: Pipe smaller strips for bite-sized snacks that are perfect for sharing or dipping.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly treat. The texture may differ slightly, but the flavor remains a delight!
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Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices such as cardamom or allspice to add unique layers to the classic flavor profile. Each variation offers a new twist that keeps your palate guessing.
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Dipped in Delight: Aside from hot fudge, consider serving with caramel sauce or spiced apple sauce for an autumnal twist everyone will love. Each dip brings its delightful sweetness to the experience.
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Nutty Flavor: Add a handful of finely chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the dough for a satisfying crunch in every bite. This adds a festive touch that makes them even more special for gatherings.
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Zesty Citrus: For a refreshing twist, incorporate a touch of orange zest into the dough for bright, citrusy notes that elevate the flavor profile. This little addition makes your churros feel extra festive!
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Sweet Variants: Swap out granulated sugar for coconut sugar in the coating for a slightly caramelized flavor that pairs beautifully with the pumpkin. The sweet transition is absolutely delectable.
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Cinnamon Sugar Upgrade: Mix in a bit of cocoa powder with your cinnamon-sugar coating for a chocolatey surprise that adds an exciting twist to your classic churros. Delightful and unexpected!
Whichever variation you choose, remember that sharing these Baked Pumpkin Churros is part of the fun. They can be a centerpiece at any gathering, much like the popular Oven Baked Chicken or Herb Oven Baked Chicken. Enjoy the process and let your creativity shine!
Expert Tips for Baked Pumpkin Churros
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Smooth Dough: Ensure your dough is smooth before piping; a lumpy texture can lead to uneven churros that don’t hold shape.
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Pipe Evenly: Space your churros well on the baking sheet; overcrowding will result in sticking and uneven baking.
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Quick Coating: Work quickly when brushing warm churros with melted butter and rolling them in cinnamon sugar; this way, the mixture adheres better and enhances flavor.
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Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on the baking time; overbaking can lead to dryness, while underbaking may cause them to be soggy.
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Serve Fresh: For the best experience, enjoy your Baked Pumpkin Churros right after they are coated; they taste best warm!
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Pumpkin Churros are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the churro dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the dough, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, pipe the chilled dough directly onto your baking sheet and bake as instructed. Additionally, you can mix the cinnamon sugar coating ahead of time and store it in a separate container. Just remember to brush the churros with melted butter right before rolling them in cinnamon sugar, ensuring they maintain their delightful texture and flavor. Enjoy this cozy fall treat with minimal fuss!
Baked Pumpkin Churros Recipe FAQs
What type of canned pumpkin should I use?
Absolutely! Use 100% pure canned pumpkin for the best flavor and moisture in your Baked Pumpkin Churros. Look for labels that say “pumpkin” rather than “pumpkin pie filling,” as the latter contains added sugars and spices that may alter the taste of your churros.
How should I store leftover churros?
For the best taste and texture, store leftover Baked Pumpkin Churros in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store them longer, place them in the fridge where they can last up to 4 days, but be aware that they might lose some of their crispiness.
Can I freeze baked churros, and if so, how?
Very! To freeze, place your cooled Baked Pumpkin Churros in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out any air. They can last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–12 minutes until warmed through.
What if my churro dough is too thin or too thick?
Don’t worry! If your dough seems too thin, try adding a bit more flour—start with 1 tablespoon increments until it reaches a thicker consistency. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until you get the right texture. The dough should pull away from the sides of the pan but still be smooth enough to pipe easily.
Are these suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes! This recipe for Baked Pumpkin Churros is nut-free, so it’s a great option for those with nut allergies. Just be sure that any substitutions you make, such as using alternative butter, are also nut-free. Always check the labels to ensure safety.
Can my pets eat Baked Pumpkin Churros?
While canned pumpkin is generally safe for pets in moderation, the sugar and spices in the churros make them unsuitable for dogs and cats. It’s best to keep these delicious treats to yourself and treat your furry friends with pure, unsweetened pumpkin instead!
Baked Pumpkin Churros: Fall's Cozy Dessert Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of canned pumpkin, ½ cup of unsalted butter, ⅓ cup of light brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium heat until boiling.
- Remove from heat and gradually add 1 cup of all-purpose flour, stirring vigorously until a smooth dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a stand mixer and mix in 2 large eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated.
- Using a pastry bag fitted with a star tip, pipe strips of dough onto the lined baking sheet, maintaining even spacing.
- Bake for 28–33 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Prepare the coating by mixing ½ cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon.
- Brush the baked churros with ¼ cup of melted unsalted butter and roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Serve warm with optional hot fudge sauce for dipping.
