Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos have officially stolen my heart this fall! I remember the first time I tried a dessert taco; it was a revelation – a crispy shell holding something sweet and unexpected. Now, with this incredible pumpkin spice dessert taco recipe, I’ve captured that cozy autumn magic in every bite. Imagine warm, tender spiced pumpkin nestled inside a crunchy, cinnamon-sugar coated tortilla, all drizzled with a tangy cream cheese icing. It’s like a hug in dessert form! These aren’t just any tacos; they’re a delightful twist on classic flavors, perfect for any gathering, and a wonderful way to enjoy those delicious autumnal pumpkin spice dessert tacos. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos
Get ready to fall in love with this dessert! Here’s why these tacos are a must-try:
- Incredible Taste: The perfect blend of warm spices, sweet pumpkin, and crunchy cinnamon-sugar shells offers a delightful flavor explosion.
- Super Fast Prep: These are truly easy pumpkin spice dessert tacos, with minimal fuss from start to finish.
- Healthier Indulgence: Packed with real pumpkin and customizable with vegan and gluten-free options, they’re a treat you can feel good about.
- Budget-Friendly: Using common pantry staples and seasonal ingredients makes this a cost-effective dessert option.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore these fun, handheld treats. They’re perfect for picky eaters!
- Quick Assembly: You can whip up a batch of these quick pumpkin spice dessert tacos in no time, perfect for last-minute cravings.
- Versatile: Easily adapt them to your dietary needs or flavor preferences.
- Festive Appeal: They bring a beautiful, autumnal charm to any table.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos
Gather these goodies to create your delicious pumpkin spice dessert taco recipe. I love how simple these ingredients are, making it easy to whip up homemade pumpkin spice dessert tacos whenever a craving strikes!
- 8 street taco sized flour tortillas – use gluten-free if needed for your dietary needs.
- 2 Tbsp vegan butter, melted – this helps the cinnamon sugar coating stick to the tortillas.
- 2 Tbsp coconut sugar – for that lovely sweet crunch, essential for our cinnamon sugar pumpkin spice tacos.
- 1 tsp cinnamon – plus an extra pinch for the pumpkin filling.
- 2.5 lb diced pie pumpkin, peeled and seeds removed – this is the star, creating a warm and tender filling.
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice – for that classic fall flavor.
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract – enhances all the other flavors.
- 1/4 tsp sea salt – balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans – adds a wonderful crunch (optional, omit for nut-free).
- 1 batch cream cheez icing – store-bought or homemade, this is key for our cream cheese pumpkin spice dessert tacos.
- 1 scoop non-dairy vanilla ice cream – for serving, if you’re feeling extra indulgent.
- 1 dollop whipped coconut cream – a light, dairy-free topping option.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos
Ready to create these amazing fall treats? Making these pumpkin spice dessert tacos is simpler than you might think, and the results are absolutely delicious. Follow these steps for a truly memorable dessert experience.
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This high heat is perfect for roasting the pumpkin quickly.
- Step 2: In a mixing bowl, toss your diced pie pumpkin with the melted vegan butter, coconut sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Make sure each piece of pumpkin is well-coated – this is where the magic begins!
- Step 3: Spread this seasoned pumpkin mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for about 10 minutes, stirring halfway through. You want the pumpkin to be tender and slightly caramelized, releasing a wonderful aroma.
- Step 4: While the pumpkin roasts, prepare your taco coatings. In a small bowl, combine the coconut sugar, cinnamon, and an extra pinch of sea salt for the crispy shells. This blend creates our delightful cinnamon sugar pumpkin spice tacos coating.
- Step 5: Heat the remaining vegan butter in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Step 6: Carefully fry each tortilla for about 10-20 seconds on each side until they become crispy and golden brown. You’re aiming for that perfect taco shell crunch!
- Step 7: Immediately toss the warm, crispy tortillas in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. The butter will help the coating adhere beautifully.
- Step 8: Now it’s time to assemble! Fill each crispy tortilla with a generous spoonful of the warm, roasted pumpkin mixture. These spiced pumpkin dessert tacos are coming together beautifully!
- Step 9: Top each taco with the chopped toasted pecans for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
- Step 10: Drizzle generously with your prepared cream cheese icing. For an extra decadent treat, consider adding a scoop of non-dairy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped coconut cream. Enjoy immediately!
Pro Tips for the Best Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos
To elevate your homemade pumpkin spice dessert tacos from good to absolutely amazing, I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way. These tips ensure every bite is perfect, turning simple ingredients into a truly gourmet pumpkin spice dessert taco experience.
- Always toast your pecans before chopping; it brings out their nutty flavor and adds an extra crunch.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet when roasting the pumpkin. This allows it to caramelize rather than steam, giving it a richer taste.
- Fry your tortillas just until golden and crispy. Over-frying can make them brittle and difficult to fold.
- Taste and adjust the spices in your pumpkin filling before roasting. You might want a little more ginger or nutmeg depending on your preference!
What’s the secret to perfect Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos?
The secret lies in balancing textures and flavors. Roasting the pumpkin until tender yet slightly caramelized, creating a perfectly crispy cinnamon-sugar shell, and then topping it with a tangy cream cheese icing ensures a delightful combination that makes these gourmet pumpkin spice dessert tacos stand out.
Can I make Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep components ahead! Roast the pumpkin filling and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Fry and coat the shells up to an hour before serving for maximum crispness. Assemble the dessert tacos with pumpkin spice just before you plan to enjoy them.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos?
The biggest pitfall is soggy shells! Make sure to fry them until truly crisp and toss them in the cinnamon sugar immediately while warm. Also, avoid overcooking the pumpkin; it should be tender, not mushy. Ensure your oven is fully preheated for the best results.
Best Ways to Serve Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos
These delightful tacos are perfect for so many occasions! For a cozy evening treat, serve them warm right after assembly, perhaps with a hot cup of apple cider or a creamy chai latte. They make a fantastic finale to any fall dinner party, especially when paired with some fresh fruit salad or a light green salad to balance the sweetness. For a truly festive spread, consider them part of a larger dessert buffet featuring other autumnal delights. These fall dessert tacos pumpkin spice creations are also wonderfully versatile for potlucks or casual get-togethers.
Nutrition Facts for Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos
Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown for these delightful pumpkin spice dessert tacos, per serving. This recipe is designed to be a treat that’s both delicious and relatively light, offering a satisfying flavor without being overly heavy.
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially when opting for different sweeteners or toppings for your dessert tacos with pumpkin spice.
How to Store and Reheat Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos
Even though these pumpkin spice dessert tacos are best enjoyed fresh, I know life happens, and sometimes you have leftovers! For the absolute best texture, especially with the crispy shells, it’s important to store them properly. Once cooled completely, store the taco shells and the roasted pumpkin filling separately in airtight containers. Refrigerated, they should stay good for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them even longer, you can freeze both the shells and the filling for up to 3 months. This makes planning for future cravings from your pumpkin pie dessert tacos recipe a breeze!
When you’re ready to enjoy your stored tacos, reheating is simple. For the shells, gently warm them in a dry skillet over low heat for a minute or two until they regain some crispness. You can also pop them in a toaster oven on a low setting. Reheat the pumpkin filling in a small saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Assemble your tacos just before serving to maintain that delightful crunch and prevent sogginess.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos
What are pumpkin spice dessert tacos?
These delightful treats are a creative twist on traditional tacos, reimagining them as a sweet dessert! Instead of savory fillings, they feature a warm, spiced pumpkin mixture nestled inside crispy, cinnamon-sugar coated tortilla shells. They offer a unique and comforting way to enjoy classic fall flavors, making them a standout among dessert taco ideas.
Why make pumpkin spice dessert tacos?
You should make these because they’re incredibly fun, delicious, and capture the cozy essence of autumn. They’re perfect for parties, family gatherings, or simply as a special weekend treat. Plus, making them is a rewarding experience that results in a truly memorable dessert. They’re a fantastic way to impress guests or treat yourself to something uniquely seasonal and satisfying.
Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of tortillas?
While you could technically use a store-bought pie crust, it would change the entire concept of the dish from “dessert tacos” to something more akin to a mini pumpkin pie. The charm of these tacos comes from the crispy shell, so using tortillas fried and coated in cinnamon sugar is key to achieving that signature texture and flavor profile.
What are some other topping ideas for these dessert tacos?
Beyond the cream cheese icing and pecans, you could try a drizzle of caramel sauce, a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes, or even some candied ginger for an extra kick. For a richer experience, a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream cheese frosting makes these truly decadent. These variations allow for endless sweet pumpkin spice tacos creations.
Variations of Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos You Can Try
Looking to switch things up or cater to specific tastes? These pumpkin spice dessert tacos are wonderfully versatile! Here are a few ideas to get your creativity flowing and explore different flavor profiles.
- Dietary Adjustments: For a completely nut-free version, simply omit the pecans and use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds (pepitas) for crunch. If you need a gluten-free option, ensure you’re using gluten-free tortillas and check your other ingredients for hidden gluten.
- Flavor Boosts: Amp up the spice by adding a pinch of ground ginger or a tiny bit of cardamom to the pumpkin filling. For an extra decadent touch, drizzle with a rich caramel sauce or a white chocolate ganache to create truly unique sweet pumpkin spice tacos.
- Cooking Method Fun: While frying gives the best crispness, you can also bake the tortillas until golden and crispy if you prefer to avoid frying. For a quicker approach, consider using store-bought cinnamon sugar churro shells if available, though they might be larger than taco shells.
- Seasonal Twists: Make these even more festive by adding a cranberry compote drizzle or a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and tartness, perfect for embracing seasonal pumpkin spice dessert tacos.
Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos: A Cozy Fall Treat
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free
Description
These Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos offer a cozy fall treat, combining crispy cinnamon-sugar shells with a warm pumpkin filling, crunchy pecans, and a sweet vegan cream cheese icing. They are a delicious, easy-to-make, vegan, and gluten-free dessert perfect for autumn gatherings.
Ingredients
- For the Taco Shells:
- 8 pieces Street Taco Sized Flour Tortillas (gluten-free option available)
- 2 Tbsp Vegan Butter (or coconut oil)
- 2 Tbsp Coconut Sugar (for coating, or brown sugar)
- 1 tsp Cinnamon (for coating)
- For the Filling:
- 2.5 lb Diced Pie Pumpkin (peeled and seeds removed)
- 1 tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice
- 1 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract
- 1/4 tsp Sea Salt (plus a pinch for coating)
- 1/2 cup Chopped Toasted Pecans (nut-free option available)
- For the Cream Cheez Icing:
- 1 batch Cream Cheez Icing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 scoop Non-Dairy Vanilla Ice Cream (optional)
- 1 dollop Whipped Coconut Cream (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- In a mixing bowl, toss diced pumpkin with vegan butter, coconut sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and sea salt.
- Spread this mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for about 10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender.
- In a separate bowl, combine coconut sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt for the coating.
- Heat vegan butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry each tortilla for 10-20 seconds on each side until crispy and golden brown.
- Immediately toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture while still warm.
- Fill each crispy tortilla with the roasted pumpkin mixture.
- Top with chopped toasted pecans and drizzle with cream cheese icing.
- For an indulgent treat, pair with non-dairy vanilla ice cream and whipped coconut cream.
Notes
- For best texture and flavor, consume fresh.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- To maintain crispiness, reheat taco shells gently in a skillet before serving.
- For longer storage, freeze taco shells and filling separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking and Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taco
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
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