Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Dip

1. In a stand mixer or large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and pumpkin purée.
2. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the pumpkin purée for your preferred flavor intensity.
3. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar

1. In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of granulated sugar with 2 teaspoons of cinnamon.
2. Stir well and set aside. This mixture will coat the freshly fried churros.

Step 3: Make the Churro Dough

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the water, pumpkin purée, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
2. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and salt to the wet ingredients.
3. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a thick dough forms.
4. Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a closed star tip.

Step 4: Fry the Churros

1. Heat oil in a deep fryer or deep skillet to 375°F, using a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. Proper oil temperature is crucial for achieving crisp churros.
2. Pipe 4-inch strips of dough directly into the hot oil, using scissors to cut the dough as you go. Fry 3 to 4 churros at a time for even cooking.
3. Fry the churros for about 2 minutes per side, turning them once, until they are golden brown.
4. Remove the churros with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain for about a minute.
5. While still warm, toss the churros in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat evenly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the churros warm with the cinnamon pumpkin cream cheese dip or a salted caramel sauce on the side.
2. Enjoy their crisp, spiced exterior paired with the creamy, tangy sweetness of the dip—a match made in dessert heaven!