Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that’s perfect for any occasion, these Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts are just what you need! They remind me of crisp autumn days and warm family gatherings. With a delightful spiced pumpkin filling tucked inside flaky pastry, they make a wonderful dessert or snack for busy weeknights or special celebrations. Plus, they’re entirely plant-based, so everyone can enjoy them without worry!

What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to whip up. Even if baking isn’t your forte, these pop tarts will have you feeling like a pro in no time. They’re not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit any palate. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making these Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to make: With just a few wholesome ingredients, you’ll have these yummy pop tarts ready in about 40 minutes!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves a sweet pastry, and these Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the dough in advance and fill them whenever you’re ready to bake—perfect for meal prepping!
• Delicious flavor: The spiced pumpkin filling combined with the maple icing creates an irresistible taste that’s comforting and festive.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for these Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts are simple and wholesome. It’s all about bringing rich flavors together without any fuss! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pastry

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it to your liking! Here are some tasty variations to try:

• Change the filling: Swap out the pumpkin puree for apple or sweet potato puree for a different flavor twist.
• Add nuts or seeds: Mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for an extra crunch.
• Try different spices: Experiment with cinnamon or ginger instead of pumpkin spice for unique flavor profiles.
• Make it chocolatey: Add some dairy-free chocolate chips into the filling for a delicious combination!

How to Make Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts

Let’s get started on making these delectable Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts! Follow along with these easy steps.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine your flour, sugar, and pumpkin spice. Then, add the cold dairy-free butter cubes. Using your fingertips, gently rub the butter into the flour until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. This step is crucial because it creates that flaky texture we love in pastries!

Step 2: Bring it Together

Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. It should be soft but not sticky. If needed, adjust with more flour or water. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In another bowl, mix together your pumpkin puree, additional pumpkin spice, maple syrup, and cornstarch. This delicious mixture will become the heart of your pop tarts! Stir well until fully blended.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Once chilled, take out your dough and divide it into two equal parts. On a floured surface, roll each part out into rectangles about 1/8 inch thick. Cut out equal-sized rectangles—these will be your top and bottom.

Step 5: Assemble Your Pop Tarts

Place one rectangle on a lined baking sheet and spoon some filling onto it, leaving space around the edges. Top with another rectangle and press down to seal. Use a fork to crimp edges for an extra touch!

Step 6: Bake Away!

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake your assembled pop tarts for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before glazing.

Step 7: Make Your Icing

In a bowl, whisk together icing sugar, maple syrup, pumpkin puree, and just enough dairy-free milk until smooth. Drizzle over cooled pop tarts and let set before enjoying!

And there you have it—your very own Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts that melt in your mouth! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts

Creating the perfect Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts can be a delightful adventure! Here are some helpful tips to make your baking experience smoother and more successful.

• Chill your ingredients: Keeping the dairy-free butter cold helps create that flaky texture in the pastry. It prevents the butter from melting too quickly, ensuring the layers remain distinct.
• Use ice water: When adding water to your dough, always use ice-cold water. This keeps the dough firm and prevents it from becoming too sticky, making it easier to roll out.
• Don’t overfill: While it’s tempting to add a generous amount of filling, overfilling can lead to messy pop tarts. A tablespoon of filling is usually just right for each pastry, allowing them to seal properly without oozing out during baking.
• Let them cool: Allow your pop tarts to cool completely before icing them. This prevents the icing from melting off and ensures a beautiful presentation.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels in both the filling and icing! Adding a pinch more pumpkin spice or even a dash of nutmeg can elevate the flavors beautifully.

How to Serve Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts

These Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts are not just delicious; they’re also visually appealing! Presenting them nicely can enhance the overall experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans or walnuts: Sprinkling some finely chopped nuts on top of your iced pop tarts adds a delightful crunch and complements the pumpkin flavor.
• Cinnamon dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon on top before serving gives an aromatic touch that enhances their autumnal vibe.

Side Dishes

• Coconut yogurt: This creamy option pairs perfectly with pop tarts, providing a cool contrast to their warm, spiced filling.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing side of seasonal fruits like apples and pears adds brightness and balances out the sweetness of the pop tarts.
• Herbal tea: A warm cup of herbal tea (like chamomile or chai) creates a cozy atmosphere and complements the spices beautifully.
• Vegan whipped cream: For a dessert-like treat, serve with dollops of vegan whipped cream; it’s rich yet light enough not to overpower the pop tarts!

Enjoy these delightful Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts as a sweet treat for breakfast or dessert! With their simple preparation and mouthwatering filling, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful treat anytime! You can whip up a batch in advance and store them for later, making your life just a little bit sweeter.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pop tarts to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, layer the pop tarts in an airtight container with parchment paper between them.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Make sure to label the container with the date.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them on a low setting for 15-20 seconds if you’re in a hurry.

FAQs

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

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree for the Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts?

Absolutely! Homemade pumpkin puree is a great option and adds a fresh flavor to your pop tarts. Just make sure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

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

To make the filling, simply mix together pumpkin puree, maple syrup, cornstarch, and pumpkin spice until smooth. This spiced mixture gives your pop tarts that delicious pumpkin pie flavor!

Can I substitute gluten-free flour in Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts?

Yes! The recipe works beautifully with gluten-free all-purpose flour. Just ensure that your blend contains xanthan gum if it’s not included already for better texture.

What can I use instead of dairy-free butter in this recipe?

You can easily substitute dairy-free butter with coconut oil or any vegan margarine. Just keep it cold and cubed as instructed!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts! They are not just delicious but also simple to prepare. Whether it’s for breakfast or dessert, they’re sure to bring warmth and comfort on any day. Enjoy every bite and share them with your loved ones—you might just make their day a little brighter!