These homemade apple pop tarts are a nostalgic treat with a fresh, vegan twist! Made with a buttery, flaky dough and filled with a delicious cinnamon-spiced apple filling, they’re a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of fall. Topped with a sweet and creamy frosting, these pop tarts are not only fun to make but also incredibly satisfying to eat. Whether you enjoyed pop tarts growing up or are just discovering them, this homemade version is far superior—perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack!
Why You’ll Love This:
You’ll love these homemade apple pop tarts for their crisp, flaky pastry and warm apple filling that’s bursting with cinnamon and brown sugar goodness. The vegan dough is buttery and tender, making each bite a perfect balance of texture and flavor. The frosting adds a sweet and creamy finish that makes these pop tarts feel like a real indulgence. Plus, the fact that they’re made with all-natural ingredients and no preservatives means they’re healthier and taste fresher than store-bought versions.
Perfect Occasion:
These apple pop tarts are ideal for breakfast or brunch, but they also make a great dessert or afternoon snack. They’re perfect for fall, when apples are in season, and the warm spices make them extra comforting during cooler weather. These pop tarts are a great treat for kids and adults alike, and they’re wonderful for sharing at gatherings, bake sales, or as part of a weekend baking project. Since they’re portable, they’re also great for taking on-the-go!
Decoration Tips:
For an extra decorative touch, after spreading the frosting on top, sprinkle a little ground cinnamon over the pop tarts or even add a drizzle of maple syrup. If you’re feeling creative, try using cookie cutters to create small shapes from extra dough and place them on top before baking. You could also top the frosting with a few thin apple slices or some crushed nuts for added texture and visual appeal. These pop tarts can be as simple or as fancy as you like!
Ingredients for the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegan butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup cold water
For the Filling:
- 3 apples, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon vegan butter
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup vegan cream cheese
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon dairy-free milk
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough: Start by cutting the cold vegan butter into small cubes. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the butter and use your hands to break up the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the cold water and mix until a dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 45 minutes.
- Make the Apple Filling: While the dough chills, prepare the apple filling. Finely chop the apples and add them to a pan over medium heat with the vegan butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften. Use an immersion blender to lightly blend the filling, leaving some chunks for texture. Add the cornstarch, cook for another 2-3 minutes, and stir until the filling thickens. Let it cool.
- Assemble the Pop Tarts: On a clean, lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Cut out 5 x 7-inch rectangles—you should get 16 rectangles, which will make 8 pop tarts. Place 8 rectangles on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Fill and Seal: Add a spoonful of the apple filling to the center of each rectangle. Top each with another rectangle of dough and use a fork to crimp the edges, sealing the pop tarts. Poke 3 small holes on the top of each one to allow steam to escape. Brush a little maple syrup over the top of each pop tart for extra flavor.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pop tarts for 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Let them cool completely before frosting.
- Make the Frosting: While the pop tarts are baking, whisk together the vegan cream cheese, powdered sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, dairy-free milk, and salt until smooth.
- Frost and Serve: Once the pop tarts have cooled, spread the frosting over the top. Enjoy!
Enjoy!