
If you crave tangy playful snacks but want something truly original for fall gatherings or movie nights Pumpkin Chickle will win you over every time. Dill pickles are coated in tart chamoy and tumbled through a punchy blend of pumpkin pie spice and Tajín creating a spicy sweet zippy finger food like nothing you have tasted before. It is ready in minutes and gets even better after a quick chill in the fridge prepping it ahead only builds the goodness.
I first brought this to a family bonfire last October and it vanished in minutes friends now ask if I am making my 'fall pickles' at every get together
Ingredients
- Dill pickles: Look for fresh crisp whole dills from the refrigerated section They hold up better to coating than jarred shelf stable ones
- Pumpkin pie spice: Choose a cinnamon forward blend for cozy flavor Make sure it is fresh for maximum aroma
- Tajín seasoning: This zesty chili lime salt gives heat and brightness Check the label to ensure it is gluten free if required
- Chamoy sauce: This tangy Mexican sauce brings color and tang Try to find one without high fructose corn syrup for better flavor
- Optional cayenne pepper: For anyone wanting extra heat just add to your spice mix
Instructions
- Prepare the Pickles:
- Slice the dill pickles into thick rounds about half an inch each If your dills are especially juicy gently pat with a paper towel so the chamoy will stick better
- Mix the Seasonings:
- Combine pumpkin pie spice and Tajín in a small bowl Mix well to ensure even distribution of color and heat
- Coat with Chamoy:
- Brush or dip each sliced pickle piece in chamoy sauce turning to cover all sides You want an even but not dripping coat
- Dust with Spices:
- Drop each chamoy coated pickle round into your bowl of seasoning Use a spoon or your fingers to make sure each piece is well covered
- Arrange and Chill:
- Place the coated pickles on a plate or tray in a single layer Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid Refrigerate at least two hours This allows the flavors to soak in and the coating to set
- Serve:
- Once chilled serve directly from the fridge for the best crunch and tang Keep leftovers covered and cold

My favorite part is the layer of sweet warmth from the pumpkin spice which feels playful next to the tart pop of pickle Sometimes my niece tries to guess what is making the pickles taste so fall like and always asks for the recipe to show her friends
Storage Tips
Pumpkin Chickle keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days covered tightly in an airtight container The flavor gets bolder with time but for peak texture enjoy it within twenty four to forty eight hours The pickles may soften slightly but will still taste great straight from the fridge
Ingredient Substitutions
Bread and butter pickles make a sweeter milder snack If you want more tang use sour pickles People who do not love spice can replace Tajín with plain chili powder and a squeeze of lime juice
Serving Suggestions
Set out a bowl at your next autumn potluck or Friendsgiving It is a crowd pleaser alongside tortilla chips and fizzy drinks For a fun appetizer platter serve the pickles with cubes of sharp cheddar and crunchy toasted pepitas
Cultural Historical Context
This playful snack borrows from popular Mexican flavors where fruit and vegetables get dunked in chamoy and chili The pumpkin pie spice pushes it into American autumn territory making it a mashup you will not find elsewhere It is a tasty example of how global flavors bring fresh energy to retro favorite snacks
Seasonal Adaptations
Pair with hard cider or pumpkin beers for peak fall vibes For Halloween parties skewer pickle rounds on toothpicks so they are easy to grab and eat Add a sprinkle of roasted pepitas or sunflower seeds for crunch
Success Stories
The first time I shared Pumpkin Chickle at a local book club no one could quite guess what the flavors were Some friends admitted they did not even like pickles but went back for seconds Everyone loves a snack that makes you pause mid bite and ask Is this crazy or genius
Freezer Meal Conversion
Pumpkin Chickle does not freeze well since the spice and chamoy coatings lose their punch and pickles go mushy after thawing For best flavor and texture this is truly a fridge only treat If you want to prep ahead simply mix the spices and store them dry then assemble and chill the day you serve

Pumpkin Chickle is best enjoyed fresh from the fridge with your favorite fall drinks. Make it ahead and watch it disappear at your next gathering!
Common Recipe Questions
- → What kind of pickles work best?
Large dill pickles offer the ideal tangy flavor and firm texture for holding the spice and chamoy coating.
- → Can I use a different spice blend?
Yes, try adding cayenne for heat or swap in your favorite chili-lime powder for a custom kick.
- → What is chamoy, and where do I find it?
Chamoy is a sweet-tangy Mexican sauce, often sold near hot sauces or Hispanic foods in most grocery stores.
- → How far in advance can I prepare this snack?
You can chill the coated pickles for up to 24 hours ahead to let the flavors intensify before serving.
- → Is this snack suitable for special diets?
It's fully vegan and gluten-free, but always check your chamoy and spice labels for allergen info.
- → Can I make this with bread and butter pickles?
Absolutely—using bread and butter pickles creates a sweeter variation perfect for those who prefer less tang.