Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings the cozy flavors of fall into your kitchen, then these Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts are just what you need! They are not only delicious but also easy to make, making them perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The spiced pumpkin pie filling wrapped in a flaky crust is sure to be a hit with everyone, even those who aren’t following a vegan diet.

These pop tarts are a wonderful way to enjoy the season’s flavors, whether you’re having them for breakfast or as a comforting dessert. Plus, who can resist a sweet treat topped with maple icing? Let’s dive into this beloved recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious pop tarts ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: These treats are loved by kids and adults alike, making them ideal for any occasion.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep; you can whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy them all week!
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of pumpkin spice and creamy maple icing creates an irresistible flavor combination.
• Customizable: You can easily tweak the filling or glaze to suit your taste preferences!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts:

For the Dough

• 240g of all-purpose / plain flour (you can use gluten-free)
• 2 tablespoons of caster sugar
• 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice
• 220g of dairy-free block butter (cold and cut into small cubes)
• Ice-water (see step 2)

For the Filling

• 100g of pumpkin puree
• 1 & 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin spice
• 50g of maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons of cornstarch / cornflour

For the Icing

• Dairy-free milk (as needed)
• 100g of icing sugar
• 1 teaspoon of maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin puree
• 1/4 teaspoon of pumpkin spice

Now that we have everything ready, let’s get cooking!

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, so feel free to get creative! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Add Chocolate Chips: For extra sweetness, throw in some dairy-free chocolate chips to the filling.
• Try Different Spices: Swap out the pumpkin spice for chai spice or cinnamon for a different flavor profile.
• Experiment with Glazes: Instead of maple icing, drizzle with chocolate or almond glaze for variety.
• Make Mini Pop Tarts: Roll out smaller pieces of dough for bite-sized treats that are perfect for snacking!

How to Make Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by mixing the flour, sugar, and pumpkin spice in a large bowl. Then add the cold dairy-free butter cubes. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to combine until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is essential because it ensures your crust will be flaky and tender.

Step 2: Add Ice Water

Slowly add ice water one tablespoon at a time until the dough holds together but isn’t sticky. Be careful not to overwork it; we want our dough light and airy! Once combined, wrap it in plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge while preparing your filling.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In another bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, additional pumpkin spice, maple syrup, and cornstarch. Stir until smooth. This filling is what makes these Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts special—spiced just right!

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

After chilling, take your dough out and roll it out on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into rectangles; these will be your pop tart shapes. Remember to keep an eye on thickness—too thick won’t bake evenly!

Step 5: Assemble Your Pop Tarts

Place half of your rectangles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon some filling onto each rectangle, leaving space around the edges. Top each filled rectangle with another piece of dough and seal the edges with a fork. This creates those adorable little pockets.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake your pop tarts for about 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end so they don’t overbake.

Step 7: Make the Icing

While they cool, prepare your icing by whisking together icing sugar, maple syrup, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin spice with enough dairy-free milk to reach your desired consistency. Drizzle this deliciousness over cooled pop tarts before serving.

And there you have it—your own batch of warm Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts! Enjoy each bite filled with love and flavor!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts

Making Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts is a delightful activity, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Keep Ingredients Cold: Using cold dairy-free butter helps create a flaky crust. It prevents the fat from melting too quickly, ensuring your pop tarts have that desirable texture.

• Chill Your Dough: After mixing your dough, let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This step allows the gluten to relax and makes rolling easier while helping maintain the right texture.

• Use a Rolling Pin: Roll your dough between two sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking. This method keeps the dough clean and easy to work with.

• Seal Edges Well: To avoid any filling leaks during baking, make sure to seal the edges of your pop tarts thoroughly with a fork or by crimping them. A good seal keeps all that delicious pumpkin filling inside!

• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to try different fillings or spices! You can swap out pumpkin spice for chai spice or even add chocolate chips for a sweet twist.

How to Serve Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts

These Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some fun ideas on how to serve them for a cozy treat or dessert.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance to your pop tarts.
• Cinnamon Sprinkles: Sprinkle some cinnamon on top just before serving for an extra flavor boost that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
• Chopped Nuts: Finely chopped pecans or walnuts give a nice crunch and earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweet filling.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the pop tarts and adds vibrant colors to your plate.
• Coconut Yogurt: Spoon some dairy-free coconut yogurt on the side. Its creamy texture pairs well with the spiced filling, making each bite even more delightful.
• Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or ginger, offers soothing flavors that complement the sweetness of your pop tarts while providing a comforting experience.
• Vegan Ice Cream: For an indulgent treat, serve warm pop tarts alongside a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream. The contrast in temperatures will make for an unforgettable dessert!

Enjoy crafting these scrumptious Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts and serving them up in style!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious treats:

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled pop tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you have leftover icing, keep it in a separate container in the fridge for up to a week.

Freezing

• Place the unbaked or baked pop tarts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For frozen baked pop tarts, heat them directly from the freezer in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• For freshly baked ones, just pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy them at room temperature.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts!

Can I use gluten-free flour for Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure that it’s suitable for baking.

How do I make the filling for Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts?

The filling is easy! Mix pumpkin puree with pumpkin spice, maple syrup, and cornstarch until smooth and creamy — perfect for spreading between your crusts.

Can Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare these delicious treats ahead of time. Follow the make-ahead tips above to enjoy them later without losing flavor.

What can I use as a substitute for dairy-free milk?

You can use any plant-based milk such as almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk — whatever you prefer works great!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts! They not only capture the warm flavors of fall but also provide a lovely treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re snacking or sharing with friends and family, these pastries are sure to delight. Enjoy every bite and happy baking!