If you adore the cozy flavors of fall but want a fun, handheld treat to enjoy that celebrates pumpkin season, this Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts Recipe is an absolute game changer. It takes the classic pumpkin pie filling you know and love, nests it inside flaky, buttery crust pockets, and finishes them with a luscious glaze that’s just begging for an afternoon coffee or a late-night snack. These pop tarts are easy to make, perfectly portable, and endlessly satisfying whether you’re serving them for breakfast, dessert, or a thoughtful gift. Let me walk you through how to create these delightful autumn bites that bring a burst of homemade warmth in every flaky, spiced bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts Recipe lies in its simple, familiar ingredients—all of which come together to balance that tender crust with the rich, warmly spiced pumpkin filling and a drizzle of sweet glaze. Each component plays a key role in delivering the perfect blend of texture, color, and flavor.
- 4 chilled pie crusts: Using pre-made or homemade crust ensures flaky, buttery pockets that bake up beautifully.
- Flour, for dusting: Helps prevent sticking while rolling out the dough for easy cutting and handling.
- 1½ cups pumpkin puree: The star of the show, providing moistness and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor.
- 2/3 cup brown sugar: Adds sweetness with a subtle molasses note that complements the pumpkin.
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice: The magical blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and other spices creating that signature warmth.
- ½ tsp cinnamon: Boosts the spiced aroma and taste distinctly in every bite.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Egg wash (2 eggs + 4 tsp milk or water): For that gorgeous golden shine and to help seal the pop tarts.
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar: Forms the base for a smooth, sweet glaze.
- 2 tbsp milk (or maple syrup for a twist): Adds creamy texture or natural sweetness if you prefer a maple touch.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Provides warming fragrance and depth to the glaze.
- 1 tbsp melted butter (optional, for richer glaze): Makes the glaze silky and indulgently smooth.
- 1 cup cinnamon sugar: For sprinkling on top to add crunch and a burst of extra spice.
- ¼ cup orange decorative sugar: Gives a festive pop of color and subtle citrus note.
- Optional: finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for topping: Adds a delightful nutty crunch and texture contrast.
How to Make Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts Recipe
Step 1: Preparing Your Oven and Workspace
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and easy cleanup—two little wins that make a big difference when you’re baking treats.
Step 2: Rolling and Cutting the Dough
Lightly dust your work surface with flour, then roll out the chilled pie crusts to smooth them out. Use a knife or a cookie cutter to cut about 32 rectangles of roughly 3 by 4 inches each, separating them into 16 for the tops and 16 for the bottoms. This consistent size helps the pop tarts bake evenly and makes them perfectly portable.
Step 3: Mixing the Pumpkin Filling
In a medium bowl, blend together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This bright and fragrant filling is what delivers that classic pumpkin pie soul in a nifty little pop tart. Combining the spices well ensures every bite has a balanced, full-flavored punch.
Step 4: Assembling the Pop Tarts
Spoon a heaping tablespoon of your dreamy pumpkin filling onto half of the rectangles, spreading it slightly but keeping near the edges clear. Then, place the remaining dough rectangles on top, carefully pressing the edges together with a fork to seal in all the deliciousness. Sealing well keeps the filling from escaping during baking, so these pop tarts remain tidy and mess-free.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Baking
Brush the tops of each tart generously with the egg wash. This gives them that irresistible golden shine and helps the crust crisp up beautifully. Pop the baking sheets into your oven and bake between 18 to 22 minutes until the pop tarts turn a lovely golden brown and start smelling wonderfully spicy and sweet.
Step 6: Cooling
Once baked, transfer your pop tarts to a cooling rack and let them cool completely. Cooling allows the filling to set and the crust to firm up, making them easier to handle and ready for the next delicious step—the glaze.
Step 7: Preparing and Drizzling the Glaze
Whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, milk (or maple syrup for a playful twist), vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth. This glaze is the crowning glory, adding a glossy sweetness that perfectly complements the spicy pumpkin inside. Drizzle it generously over the cooled pop tarts with a spoon or small piping bag.
Step 8: Final Touches
While the glaze is still wet, sprinkle the pop tarts with cinnamon sugar and orange decorative sugar for sparkle and a subtle citrus accent. If you love nuts, adding finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts at this stage adds an extra dimension of texture and flavor that’s hard to resist.
How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts Recipe
Garnishes
Easy garnishes like a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream and a dash of cinnamon can elevate the presentation. Fresh cranberries or chopped toasted nuts scattered on top also add color, texture, and a festive touch that’s so inviting when you bring these pop tarts to the table.
Side Dishes
These pop tarts pair wonderfully with a steaming mug of spiced chai, coffee, or even hot apple cider, tapping into those cozy fall vibes. For a brunch, they go nicely alongside scrambled eggs or a simple fruit salad to keep the meal balanced but still indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts Recipe on a rustic wooden board surrounded by small bowls of maple syrup, extra glaze, or chopped nuts for dipping and decorating. You can even serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert twist that surprises and delights your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts Recipe keeps well when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 to 3 days. This means you can enjoy their fresh-baked magic for several mornings or snacks without worry.
Freezing
If you want to make these ahead of time or save extras, freeze unglazed pop tarts wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw completely before glazing.
Reheating
To revive that fresh-baked warmth, reheat your pop tarts in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible—it can make the crust soggy instead of delightfully flaky.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pie crust for this Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts Recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade pie crust adds extra flavor and freshness, but pre-made crusts work just fine for convenience. Either way, you’ll get flaky, buttery layers that hug the pumpkin filling perfectly.
What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
No problem! You can make your own blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, and cloves. Even just cinnamon and a touch of nutmeg will give a lovely warm flavor.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, by using a gluten-free pie crust and ensuring your other ingredients are gluten-free, you can enjoy this Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts Recipe without gluten. Just watch the baking time as it may vary slightly.
Is it possible to make these vegan?
For a vegan version, use a dairy-free and egg-free pie crust, replace the egg wash with a plant-based milk wash, and substitute butter in the glaze with coconut oil or vegan butter. Maple syrup is perfect in the glaze for natural sweetness.
How long do Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts stay fresh?
At room temperature in an airtight container, these pop tarts stay fresh and delicious for 2 to 3 days. Beyond that, refrigeration or freezing is best to maintain quality.
Final Thoughts
There’s something utterly comforting about digging into these homemade Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts Recipe treats that makes chilly mornings and cozy afternoons just a little sweeter. Whether you’re baking them for your family, a holiday gathering, or simply because you deserve a seasonal treat, these pop tarts bring together everything we adore about pumpkin pie with a flaky crust and a drizzled glaze that’s pure joy. I can’t wait for you to try them and make this recipe your new fall favorite!
Print
Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 pop tarts
- Category: Breakfast Pastry
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Pumpkin Pie Pop Tarts are a delightful, handheld holiday treat featuring a flaky pastry crust filled with a spiced pumpkin filling. Baked to golden perfection and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze, cinnamon sugar, and optional nuts, they combine the flavors of classic pumpkin pie with the fun portability of pop tarts.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 4 chilled pie crusts
- Flour, for dusting
Filling
- 1½ cups pumpkin puree
- 2/3 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Egg Wash
- 2 eggs
- 4 tsp milk or water
Glaze
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 2 tbsp milk (or maple syrup for a twist)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp melted butter (optional, for richer glaze)
Toppings
- 1 cup cinnamon sugar
- ¼ cup orange decorative sugar
- Optional: finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for topping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Dough: Lightly flour your work surface, roll out the chilled pie crusts, and cut them into rectangles about 3×4 inches in size. You will get 16 top pieces and 16 bottom pieces for the pop tarts.
- Make Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Assemble Pop Tarts: Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the pumpkin filling onto each of half the dough rectangles. Place the remaining dough rectangles on top and press the edges together firmly using a fork to seal the filling inside.
- Apply Egg Wash and Bake: Brush the tops of the sealed pop tarts with an egg wash made by whisking 2 eggs with 4 teaspoons of milk or water. Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown.
- Cool Tarts: Remove the pop tarts from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before glazing.
- Prepare and Apply Glaze: Mix the confectioners’ sugar, milk (or maple syrup if using), vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth to create a sweet glaze. Drizzle this over the cooled pop tarts evenly.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle cinnamon sugar, orange decorative sugar, and optional chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over the glazed pop tarts to add texture and extra flavor.
Notes
- Using chilled pie crusts helps keep the pastry flaky and easier to handle.
- If you want a dairy-free glaze, substitute milk with more maple syrup or a plant-based milk.
- Pumpkin puree can be canned or homemade; avoid pumpkin pie filling as it contains added sugar and spices.
- For a festive touch, experiment with colored sugars or add a sprinkle of edible glitter.
- Store leftover pop tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
