Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, then you’ve found it with these Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts! They’re a delightful nod to childhood favorites but made with wholesome, plant-based ingredients. The spiced pumpkin pie filling is perfectly balanced, and the maple icing adds just the right touch of sweetness. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight dessert or a special family gathering, these pop tarts are sure to bring smiles all around.

What makes this recipe truly special is not only its deliciousness but also how easy it is to whip up. You’ll find that making your own pastries at home can be both fun and rewarding. Plus, they’re great for meal prep—make them ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients, you can have these tasty treats ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the sweet pumpkin flavor; it’s perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake a batch in advance, and you’ll have delicious snacks ready whenever you need them.
• Deliciously Customizable: Feel free to play around with flavors and fillings to make them your own!
• Comfort Food Vibes: These Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts are warm, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these delightful Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts. You probably have many of them in your kitchen already!

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 quite flexible, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and fillings! Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Switch up the spices: Try adding cinnamon or nutmeg for a different flavor profile.
• Add fruit fillings: Substitute some pumpkin puree with apple or pear filling for a fruity twist.
• Make it chocolatey: Add some cocoa powder to the pastry for a chocolate-flavored pop tart.
• Experiment with toppings: Instead of maple icing, try using a chocolate glaze or just sprinkle on some powdered sugar.

How to Make Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by mixing together your flour, caster sugar, and pumpkin spice in a large bowl. Next, add in those cold cubes of dairy-free butter. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial because it creates that flaky texture we all love in pastries.

Step 2: Add Ice-Water

Gradually add ice-water to the mixture until it starts forming into a dough. Be careful not to overwork it! If the dough feels too dry, add more water one tablespoon at a time. Once it comes together nicely, wrap it in cling film and place it in the fridge for about 15 minutes while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In another bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, additional pumpkin spice, maple syrup, and cornstarch until smooth. This spiced mixture will be your delightful filling! Remember that letting this sit for a moment allows those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Roll Out Dough & Assemble

Once your dough has chilled, roll it out on a floured surface until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Cut out rectangles (or any shape you like) using a knife or pastry cutter. Place half of these rectangles on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Spoon some filling onto each rectangle—don’t overfill or they might burst during baking!

Step 5: Seal & Bake

Place another rectangle on top of each filled piece and press down on the edges with a fork to seal them tight. Poke holes in each pop tart so steam can escape while baking. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Step 6: Prepare Icing & Serve

While they cool slightly, whisk together icing sugar with dairy-free milk until smooth. Add in maple syrup, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin spice for flavor! Drizzle this lovely icing over your pop tarts once they’ve cooled down enough not to melt it away. Enjoy these delicious Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts warm or at room temperature—they’re simply irresistible!

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts

Creating the perfect Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts is a delightful experience, and with these helpful tips, you can ensure they turn out beautifully every time!

• Use cold ingredients: Starting with cold dairy-free butter and ice water helps create a flaky pastry. The cold temperature prevents the butter from melting before baking, giving your pop tarts that perfect melt-in-the-mouth texture.
• Don’t skip the chilling step: Allowing the dough to rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes makes it easier to roll out and helps prevent shrinkage during baking. This ensures your pop tarts maintain their shape and have a nice, airy texture.
• Experiment with fillings: While pumpkin filling is delicious, don’t hesitate to try different fruit purees or nut butters as alternative fillings. This keeps things exciting and caters to different tastes!
• Seal the edges well: Pressing down on the edges of your pop tarts effectively seals in all that yummy filling. You can add an extra touch by crimping the edges with a fork for a decorative finish.
• Adjust baking time based on your oven: Every oven is different! Keep an eye on your pop tarts as they bake; if you notice them browning too quickly, consider lowering the temperature slightly or covering them with parchment paper.

How to Serve Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts

These Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts are not just tasty but also visually appealing. Presenting them well can take your dessert experience to another level!

Garnishes

• Dairy-free whipped cream: A dollop of this creamy topping adds a luxurious feel and balances out the sweetness of the pop tarts.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts: Sprinkling some nuts adds a delightful crunch and enhances the flavor profile of pumpkin spice.
• Cinnamon dust: A light sprinkle of cinnamon over each pop tart gives them that cozy aroma and an extra layer of warmth.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pop tarts, making for a balanced meal.
• Vegan yogurt parfait: Layer some dairy-free yogurt with granola and berries for a wholesome side that complements the sweet flavors perfectly.
• Chai tea or spiced latte: These warm beverages echo the spices in your pop tarts, creating a harmonious pairing that’s perfect for chilly days.
• Almond milk hot chocolate: For those with a sweet tooth, this rich drink pairs wonderfully with pumpkin treats, offering warmth and comfort.

Enjoy crafting these delightful Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts! They are sure to be a hit at any gathering or simply as a comforting treat at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts are fantastic for meal prep, making them a great option for busy weeks when you want something delicious and comforting on hand. Here’s how to store and enjoy them later!

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.
• For longer storage, keep them in the fridge where they’ll last about a week.

Freezing

• Once cooled, wrap each pop tart individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, simply remove the wrapping and place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• If reheating from the fridge, they should take about 5-8 minutes in the oven.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 20-30 seconds if you’re short on time.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delightful Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts.

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

Absolutely! You can easily substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour in this recipe without compromising taste or texture.

How long do Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts last?

When stored properly, these Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature or about a week in the refrigerator.

What is the best way to enjoy Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts?

These pop tarts are perfect as a snack or dessert. Enjoy them warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat!

Can I make the filling ahead of time for my Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts?

Yes! You can prepare the pumpkin filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to one week. Just give it a good stir before using.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts! They’re not just a delightful treat but also remind us of cozy autumn days filled with warmth and spice. Making these pop tarts is an experience that’s sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your creations with friends and family. Happy baking!