Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts

Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts are the perfect treat for any occasion. With a delightful spiced pumpkin pie filling and a drizzle of maple icing, these pop tarts are not only vegan but also incredibly easy to make. They offer a comforting taste that captures the essence of fall and will surely please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin spice and maple syrup creates a rich, sweet flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up these pop tarts in no time.
• Versatile Dessert: Enjoy them as a breakfast treat, a midday snack, or a delightful dessert after dinner.
• Vegan-Friendly: Made without eggs or dairy, these pop tarts cater to various dietary preferences while still delivering great taste.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 10 servings, they are great for gatherings, ensuring there’s enough to go around.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts, gather your essential tools for a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Ensures an even thickness for your pastry dough, making it easier to cut into perfect shapes.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining ingredients thoroughly, leading to better flavors in your filling and dough.
• Baking sheet: Provides ample space for your pop tarts to bake evenly without sticking together.

Ingredients

To create these delicious Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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
• 100g of icing sugar
• 1 teaspoon of maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin puree
• 1/4 teaspoon of pumpkin spice

How to Make Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by mixing the dry ingredients. In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Flour
2. Caster sugar
3. Pumpkin spice

Add cold dairy-free butter cubes into the mixture. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until crumbly.

Step 2: Combine with Ice Water

Gradually add ice water until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix; it should be slightly sticky but manageable.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This helps firm up the butter and makes rolling easier.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

In another bowl, mix together:
1. Pumpkin puree
2. Additional pumpkin spice
3. Maple syrup
4. Cornstarch

Stir until smooth and set aside.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once chilled, roll out half of the dough on a floured surface until about 1/8 inch thick.

Step 6: Cut and Fill

Cut out rectangles using a knife or pastry cutter. On half of each rectangle, place a spoonful of filling leaving edges clear.

Step 7: Seal and Bake

Cover with another rectangle and press edges with a fork to seal. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Step 8: Prepare Icing

While they cool, whisk together icing sugar with dairy-free milk, maple syrup, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin spice until smooth.

Step 9: Drizzle Icing Over Pop Tarts

Once cooled slightly, drizzle icing over each pop tart before serving. Enjoy your homemade Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts!

How to Serve Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts

Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With Whipped Coconut Cream

• A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a rich and creamy contrast to the spiced filling, making each bite even more indulgent.

Drizzled with Chocolate

• Melted vegan chocolate drizzled over the pop tarts provides a sweet, decadent touch that pairs beautifully with pumpkin spice flavors.

Served with Fresh Fruit

• Pair your pop tarts with sliced apples or pears for a fresh and crisp element that complements the rich pumpkin filling.

Accompanied by Nut Butter

• Spreading almond or peanut butter on the side creates a deliciously nutty flavor that enhances the sweetness of the pop tarts.

With a Hot Beverage

• Enjoy your Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts with a warm cup of chai, coffee, or herbal tea for a cozy treat at any time of day.

How to Perfect Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts

Achieving the perfect Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts involves attention to detail and some helpful tips.

• Chill Your Dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps it remain firm and flaky during baking.

• Use Cold Butter: Ensure the dairy-free butter is cold and cut into small cubes. This will create a flakier crust when baked.

• Don’t Overfill: When adding the pumpkin filling, avoid overstuffing to prevent leaks during baking. A tablespoon per tart is ideal.

• Seal Edges Properly: Press down firmly on the edges of each pop tart to seal them well, which helps keep the filling intact while baking.

• Bake Until Golden: Keep an eye on baking time; pop tarts should be golden brown. This ensures they are cooked through without being burnt.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts

To complement your Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts, consider these delicious side dishes that enhance their flavor profile.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, balancing the sweetness of the pop tarts perfectly.

2. Vegan Yogurt Parfait
   Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and berries for a satisfying crunch that pairs well with soft pastries.

3. Spiced Chai Latte
   A warm spiced chai latte offers comforting spices that match beautifully with pumpkin flavors in your pop tarts.

4. Maple Glazed Carrots
   Roasted carrots drizzled with maple syrup create a sweet and savory dish that complements pumpkin nicely.

5. Cinnamon Oatmeal
   A bowl of cinnamon oatmeal serves as a hearty side, providing warmth and additional spice notes alongside your dessert.

6. Nutty Granola Bars
   Chewy granola bars made with nuts and seeds add texture and nutrition while enhancing your overall treat experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts is simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here are some tips to ensure your pop tarts turn out perfectly.

• Using warm butter: Make sure your dairy-free butter is cold and cut into small cubes. This ensures a flaky crust.
• Ignoring the chill time: Always refrigerate the dough after mixing. This helps in achieving the right texture and prevents shrinkage during baking.
• Overfilling the pop tarts: Be cautious not to overfill with pumpkin filling. Too much filling can lead to bursting during baking.
• Not sealing properly: Ensure you seal the edges of the pop tarts well. A fork can help crimp the edges to prevent leaks.
• Skipping the icing: The maple icing adds a delightful finish. Don’t skip it! It elevates the flavor and presentation of your Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts

• Wrap individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour without altering the recipe significantly.

How do I make my Vegan Pumpkin filling spicier?

Add more pumpkin spice or include ground cinnamon and nutmeg according to your taste preferences.

Can I customize the icing for my Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different flavors by adding vanilla extract or other spices to your icing mixture.

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

Serve them warm or at room temperature, accompanied by a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat.

Final Thoughts

Vegan Pumpkin Pop Tarts are a deliciously sweet treat that everyone will love. They are easy to customize, allowing you to adjust flavors and toppings based on what you have on hand or your personal preference. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these delightful pastries any time of year!