Name: Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts: Cozy Fall Flavors Made Easy
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Canned Pumpkin (or homemade); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (can substitute with coconut sugar); 1 tbsp Pumpkin Pie Spice (or make your own); 1 pinch Salt (sea salt for best flavor); 2 sheets Pie Crust (store-bought or homemade); 1 large Egg (for wash, can use milk for vegan option); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (or reduce for less sweetness); 2 tbsp Milk (almond milk works as a substitute); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (omit if allergic)

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As autumn leaves start their swirls and the air carries a hint of cinnamon, I often find myself craving something that perfectly encapsulates the season. Enter my Easy Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts — a warm, flaky delight that marries the comforting flavors of traditional pumpkin pie with the fun of pastry. What’s more, they come together in a breeze, making them an ideal choice for both lazy weekends and cozy gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients, these pop tarts provide a delicious way to embrace the spirit of fall without diving into complex baking. Ready to add a sprinkle of joy to your dessert table? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts

Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe involves minimal steps, perfect for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.

Irresistibly Cozy Flavor: The warm blend of pumpkin, spices, and sugars will transport you right into the heart of autumn.

Fun Variation Ideas: Whether you want to add chocolate chips or nutty textures, you can easily customize these to your liking.

Quick Bake Time: In just 20 minutes, your home will be filled with the delightful aroma of freshly baked pastries.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: These pop tarts are sure to impress at any gathering, making them as suitable for casual snacks as for festive occasions.

Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or for a spiced touch, enjoy with a cup of chai. If you love homemade sweets, don’t forget to check out my Soft Pumpkin Pull or try a unique twist with Caramel Apple Pie Parfaits!

Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts Ingredients

For the Filling
• Pumpkin – Use canned pumpkin for convenience or homemade for a fresh taste.
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth; substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – A warm blend of spices; feel free to make your own for added freshness.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; a pinch of sea salt can elevate the taste.

For the Crust
• Pie Crust – Store-bought saves time, while homemade offers a fresher touch.
• Egg (for wash) – Promotes browning; opt for milk or a plant-based alternative for a vegan version.

For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Provides sweetness and smooth texture; skip if reducing sugar.
• Milk – Helps achieve the glaze’s desired consistency; almond milk works well as a substitute.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds complexity; you can omit it for allergy concerns.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure your Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts don’t stick during baking. This is a crucial step for achieving perfectly golden pastries. While the oven heats up, gather all your ingredients and equipment so you’re ready to create these cozy fall treats.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined. This mixture should have a rich, slightly thick consistency, reminiscent of traditional pumpkin pie filling. Set the bowl aside once you achieve a silky texture; you’ll use it shortly for your pop tarts.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Now, take your pie crust and roll it out on a floured surface to about ⅛-inch thickness. This will make the crust flaky and tender once baked. Cut the rolled dough into rectangles, approximately 3×4 inches, allowing enough space for filling and sealing. Aim for uniformity to ensure even cooking and a beautiful presentation for each Pumpkin Pie Pop Tart.

Step 4: Chill the Dough
Once you’ve cut the dough rectangles, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for about 15 minutes. This step is key for maintaining flakiness in your crust, as the cold dough will help achieve that delightful texture. While the dough chills, you can prepare to assemble your pop tarts.

Step 5: Assemble the Pop Tarts
Take half of the chilled dough rectangles and spoon about a tablespoon of the pumpkin filling onto the center of each. Be careful not to overfill, as that can cause bursting. Place a second dough rectangle on top of each filled piece, gently pressing down around the edges to seal them together, ensuring that scrumptious filling stays inside.

Step 6: Seal and Vent
Using a fork, press down the edges of each sealed pop tart to create a decorative finish while confirming they are well closed. Don’t forget to poke a few holes in the top of each pop tart; this allows steam to escape during baking, preventing any unwanted explosions. Your Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts are now ready for their golden moment in the oven!

Step 7: Brush and Bake
Brush the top of each pop tart with an egg wash or a dairy-free alternative to promote browning. Place the prepared pop tarts onto the baking sheets and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and flaky. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures may vary, ensuring you catch when they’re beautifully cooked to perfection.

Step 8: Cool Down
After baking, remove the pans from the oven and allow the Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts to cool on the baking sheets for about 10 minutes. This cooling time ensures that they hold together when you transfer them. The aroma of spiced pumpkin will fill your kitchen, creating an inviting ambiance perfect for fall.

Step 9: Make the Glaze
While the pastries cool, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed; it should be pourable yet thick enough to sit on top of your pop tarts without running off completely.

Step 10: Glaze and Serve
Once the Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts have cooled, drizzle the glaze over the tops using a spoon or a piping bag for a more precise look. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving. These delightful pastries are best enjoyed warm, either on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a steaming cup of spiced chai.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts

Room Temperature: Keep pop tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their freshness and flaky texture.

Fridge: For longer storage, place the pop tarts in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to a week. Make sure to wrap them tightly to avoid drying out.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap each pop tart individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Reheat frozen pumpkin pie pop tarts directly from the freezer in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Enjoy them warm!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to savor the flavors of fall even on your busiest days! You can prepare the pie crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply store the pie crust in the refrigerator and keep the filling in an airtight container to maintain its moist texture. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the chilled crust, assemble the pop tarts, and pop them in the oven—just as delicious as fresh! Alternatively, you can freeze the assembled pop tarts for up to 3 months; just bake them from frozen for a quick treat anytime you crave something sweet and comforting. Enjoy the convenience of homemade pastries while saving precious time in your busy kitchen!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts

Chill the Dough: Make sure to refrigerate the dough before assembling to maintain that flaky texture essential for delicious Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts.
Don’t Overfill: Keep the filling to about a tablespoon for each pop tart. Overfilling can lead to bursting during baking, making a delightful mess.
Poke Holes: Remember to poke several holes on top of each pop tart. This will allow steam to escape, preventing any unwanted explosions while they bake.
Egg Wash Alternatives: If you’re looking for a vegan option, brush with milk or a plant-based milk alternative instead of egg wash for golden, beautiful pop tarts.
Allow Glaze to Set: After drizzling the glaze, give it a few minutes to set before serving. This creates a professional finish and enhances the presentation of your pumpkin pie pop tarts.

What to Serve with Easy Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts

Transform your delightful pop tarts into a full cozy meal with these delicious pairings!

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness complements the spiced pumpkin perfectly, creating a nostalgic dessert experience. Just imagine that first bite of warm pastry and melting ice cream—pure bliss!
Spiced Chai Tea: The warming spices in chai enhance the flavors of your pop tarts while providing a comforting drink to sip on during chilly evenings.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel on top elevates each bite, adding a sweet richness that brings out the pastry’s flavors.
Whipped Cream: A fluffy dollop on the side balances the sweetness while adding a light, airy texture to each dessert experience.
Pecan Pie Bars: Serve alongside these chewy, nutty bars for a delightful contrast in flavor and texture at your fall gatherings.
Apple Cider: A chilled glass of apple cider with cinnamon spice echoes those warm autumn vibes, making it the ideal beverage to accompany your pastries.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Stay in the fall spirit by pairing your pop tarts with this popular coffee drink—rich, warm, and cozy with every sip.
Nutty Granola: A crunchy side of granola adds a satisfying texture contrast and can also be enjoyed as a breakfast option with the pop tarts.
Chocolate Covered Almonds: For an added crunch and sweetness, these nuts brilliantly complement the pumpkin flavors while offering healthy fats.
Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites: For a show-stopping dessert platter, these bite-sized treats provide a creamy, rich counterpart to the flaky pop tarts.

Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore your creativity and adjust the flavors and textures with these delightful variations!

Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and a plant-based butter for a completely dairy-free treat, ensuring everyone can enjoy them.
Nuts Galore: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for extra crunch and a nutty flavor that beautifully complements the pumpkin.
Sweet Potato Twist: Substitute pumpkin with mashed sweet potato for a unique flavor profile that adds a hint of caramel sweetness.
Chocolate Surprise: Mix chocolate chips into the filling for a delightful surprise that pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin spice.
Extra Spice: Boost the warmth by adding a pinch of ground cloves or ginger to the filling, enhancing that cozy, autumnal vibe.
Maple Glaze: Swap the vanilla glaze for a maple syrup glaze for a distinct twist that elevates the sweetness and adds depth.
Filling Variety: Try incorporating a layer of cream cheese for a sweet and tangy contrast that takes these pop tarts to the next level.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top for an indulgent finish that will make these pop tarts even more irresistible.

Explore the world of flavors with these delightful twists! If you love these pop tarts, you might also enjoy my recipe for Cider Pumpkin Waffles or the comforting flavors in Soft Pumpkin Pull.

Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right pumpkin for my pop tarts?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and moisture in your Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts, use canned pumpkin puree as it is convenient and has a consistent flavor. If you opt for fresh pumpkin, make sure it’s fully ripe and has a rich orange color. Look for pumpkins labeled “sugar pumpkin” or “pie pumpkin” for the sweetest results!

How should I store leftover pop tarts?
Very important! Keep your pop tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just wrap them tightly to prevent drying out, as nothing is worse than a stale pastry!

Can I freeze my pumpkin pie pop tarts?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, wrap each pop tart individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. For best results when you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through — they’ll taste freshly baked!

What if my filling leaks out during baking?
Don’t worry, this can happen! To prevent filling leaks, ensure you don’t overfill each pop tart; about a tablespoon of filling is ideal. Also, sealing the edges with a fork and poking holes on top allows steam to escape without forcing filling out. If you do have a little overflow, it’s still delicious, and nobody will mind!

Are these pumpkin pie pop tarts suitable for dietary restrictions?
The more the merrier! For gluten-free options, use gluten-free pie crust and ensure your filling ingredients are GF certified. If you have egg allergies or want vegan options, you can substitute the egg wash with a milk alternative. Just be sure to check your powdered sugar for any allergens as well.

How can I customize my pop tarts?
Absolutely! You can mix things up by adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the pumpkin filling for added texture and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, substitute pumpkin with sweet potato for a delightful twist. The recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing for numerous delicious variations!