If you have a soft spot for all things pumpkin spice and crave a cozy, nostalgic breakfast treat, you are going to fall head over heels for this Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts Recipe. These homemade delights capture the essence of pumpkin pie in a fun, handheld form, perfect for mornings when you want something both comforting and a little indulgent. Flaky pre-made pie crust envelops a spiced pumpkin filling that’s perfectly sweetened, then topped with a luscious drizzle of glaze. It’s the ideal marriage of convenience and classic autumn flavors that will have everyone asking for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple pantry staples, each playing a crucial role in creating the perfect pop tart. From the flaky crust that gives you that satisfying bite to the pumpkin puree packed with flavor and the spices that bring everything together, every component counts.
- Pre-made pie crust (2 crusts): Using pre-made crust saves time and guarantees flaky, buttery pop tarts without the fuss.
- Pumpkin puree (1 cup): The star of the dish, providing creamy texture and that unmistakable pumpkin essence.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Adds moist sweetness with a caramel undertone that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
- Pumpkin pie spice (1 tsp): The warm spice blend that brings out the authentic pumpkin pie flavor.
- Egg yolk mixed with water (1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp water): Used as an egg wash to give the pop tarts a gorgeous golden brown finish.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): For making a simple, sweet glaze that completes the look and taste.
- Milk (2 tbsp): Mixed with powdered sugar to create a smooth drizzle that adds an extra touch of sweetness.
- Salt (a pinch): Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
How to Make Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake. This ensures your pop tarts cook evenly and develop that beautiful golden brown color.
Step 2: Cut the Pie Crust
On a floured surface, gently roll out the pre-made pie crust to smooth any creases. Then, cut the dough into rectangles roughly 3 by 4 inches. These will be the perfect size for individual pop tarts that are easy to hold and enjoy.
Step 3: Mix the Pumpkin Filling
In a medium bowl, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and a small pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and fully blended. This filling gives you the rich, warmly spiced pumpkin flavor you expect from your favorite fall dessert.
Step 4: Assemble the Pop Tarts
Place half of your cut rectangles onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon about one tablespoon of the pumpkin filling onto the center of each rectangle, leaving enough room on the edges to seal. Top each with another rectangle and press down around the edges to seal the filling inside. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a neat finish and extra security.
Step 5: Apply the Egg Wash
Brush the tops of each pop tart with the egg yolk mixture. This simple step creates a shiny, golden crust that makes them as pretty as they taste.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake your pop tarts in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until they are puffed up and golden brown on top. The aroma filling your kitchen will make it hard to wait!
Step 7: Glaze and Serve
While the pop tarts cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar and milk to form a smooth glaze. Drizzle it generously over the warm pop tarts for an extra bit of sweetness and that classic glazed look.
How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of warmth and comfort, sprinkle a little cinnamon or additional pumpkin pie spice over the glaze. A dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped pecans can also make the presentation pop and add delightful textures.
Side Dishes
Serve these pop tarts alongside a steaming cup of coffee or chai tea to complement the spices in the filling. For a more substantial breakfast, pair with scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad for balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your pop tarts diagonally to create charming mini triangles that are perfect for sharing at brunch. You could even turn this recipe into bite-sized snacks by cutting smaller rectangles and adjusting the filling accordingly—great for parties or kid-friendly treats!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any uneaten Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This will maintain their crispness and freshness without drying out the filling.
Freezing
If you want to make these ahead for busy mornings, freeze the unbaked pop tarts on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for best results.
Reheating
To enjoy leftover or frozen Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warm and crisp again. Avoid microwaving, which can make the crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pie crust for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade pie crust will give your Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts Recipe an extra buttery and flaky quality, making them even more special. Just make sure your dough is chilled before cutting and assembling.
What can I substitute for pumpkin pie spice?
If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice on hand, a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves in equal parts works perfectly to mimic that warm autumnal flavor.
Is it possible to make these gluten-free?
Yes! Using a gluten-free pie crust will work well for this recipe. Just be sure to handle the dough gently since gluten-free crusts can be more delicate.
How sweet are these pop tarts?
The sweetness is balanced—thanks to brown sugar in the filling and the powdered sugar glaze on top—delivering a treat that’s indulgent but not overpoweringly sugary.
Can I add other fillings to the Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts Recipe?
Definitely! Try mixing cream cheese into the pumpkin filling for a tangy twist, or add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or chocolate chips inside before sealing for extra texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
There is something so joyful about making a classic fall dessert into a fun handheld treat, and this Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts Recipe truly brings that magic to life. Whether you whip them up for a cozy breakfast, a festive snack, or a delightful dessert, these pop tarts will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Give them a try and watch how fast they disappear—trust me, you’ll be so glad you did!
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Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 pop tarts
- Category: Breakfast Pastry
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts are a delightful fall-inspired treat featuring a flaky pre-made pie crust filled with a spiced pumpkin puree mixture. Baked until golden and topped with a sweet glaze, they make a perfect breakfast or dessert that captures the comforting flavors of pumpkin pie in a portable pastry form.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 package pre-made pie crust (contains 2 crusts)
Filling
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- Pinch of salt
Egg Wash
- 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tbsp water
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature by the time your pop tarts are assembled.
- Prepare Pie Crust: Roll out the pre-made pie crust on a lightly floured surface, then cut into 3×4 inch rectangles to form the base and top of each pop tart.
- Make Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Assemble Pop Tarts: Place one rectangle of pie crust on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon about one tablespoon of the pumpkin filling onto the center of each rectangle. Then place a second rectangle on top, sealing the edges by pressing them firmly together to encase the filling.
- Brush with Egg Wash: Lightly brush the tops of the pop tarts with the egg yolk and water mixture. This will give them a beautiful golden brown finish when baked.
- Bake: Bake the assembled pop tarts in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare Glaze: While the pop tarts bake, whisk together powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Once the pop tarts have cooled slightly but are still warm, drizzle the glaze over the top for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- Use a fork to crimp the edges of the pop tarts for a tighter seal and a decorative look.
- You can swap pumpkin pie spice with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves if desired.
- Allow pop tarts to cool slightly before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
- For a dairy-free option, use plant-based milk in the glaze.
- Store leftover pop tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
