Name: Pumpkin Pie Tacos: A Scrumptious Fall Treat You’ll Love
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Flour Tortillas (Substitute with gluten-free tortillas if needed.); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (Brown sugar can be used for a richer flavor.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Pumpkin pie spice can be used instead.); 4 tablespoons Butter (Use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.); 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (Use pure pumpkin, not pie filling.); 8 ounces Cream Cheese (Neufchâtel can be used for a lighter option.); 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar (A sugar alternative can be used for reduced sugar.); 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract (Vanilla bean will elevate the taste.); 1 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice (A blend of spices can also be substituted.); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Coconut cream is a dairy-free option.); 2 tablespoons Powdered Sugar (A sugar alternative can be used if desired.); 1/4 cup Chopped Pecans (Walnuts can be used or omitted for nut-free option.)

As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, the thought of autumn desserts fills my mind with warmth and nostalgia. This year, I’m excited to share a delightful twist on traditional flavors with my Pumpkin Pie Tacos. Perfect for Thanksgiving or Halloween gatherings, this recipe combines the comforting taste of spiced pumpkin filling with the crunchy allure of crispy, cinnamon-sugar tortillas. What’s not to love? Not only are these tacos a fun, portable take on a classic fall dessert, but they also require just 20 minutes of prep time—making it a breeze to impress your friends and family! Whether you’re looking for a creative addition to your seasonal menu or simply seeking a unique way to enjoy pumpkin, these Pumpkin Pie Tacos are sure to satisfy your cravings. Are you ready to indulge in this autumn-inspired treat?

Why Will You Love Pumpkin Pie Tacos?

Versatile Flavor: Pumpkin Pie Tacos combine classic fall flavors in an exciting new way, satisfying both sweet and savory cravings.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for gatherings, these tacos will be a hit at Thanksgiving or Halloween parties, making everyone eager for seconds!

Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep, you can whip up these delicious treats without the fuss of traditional baking.

Crispy Delight: The cinnamon-sugar tortillas offer a delightful crunch that perfectly contrasts the creamy pumpkin filling, making every bite a joy.

Adaptable Recipe: Easily modify for dietary needs—substitute gluten-free tortillas or make it dairy-free with coconut cream!

Don’t forget to explore more delicious pumpkin options like Soft Pumpkin Cookies or Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies for a delightful autumn feast!

Pumpkin Pie Tacos Ingredients

For the Tortillas
• Flour Tortillas – These serve as the crispy base for your tacos; opt for gluten-free tortillas for a dietary-friendly version.
• Granulated Sugar – This sweetens the cinnamon-sugar coating; try brown sugar for a richer flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon – Provides warm, aromatic notes; you can use pumpkin pie spice for extra pumpkin flavor.
• Butter – Adds richness and helps the tortillas crisp up beautifully; coconut oil is a great dairy-free substitute.

For the Pumpkin Filling
• Pumpkin Puree – The star of your filling, offering that classic pumpkin flavor; make sure to use pure pumpkin, not pie filling.
• Cream Cheese – Gives a creamy texture to the filling; Neufchâtel can be used for a lighter option.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the filling; substitute with a sugar alternative for a lower-sugar option.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; using vanilla bean will elevate the taste even more.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Adds the quintessential pumpkin spice blend; a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice works well too.

For the Whipped Cream
• Heavy Cream – Creates a rich whipped topping; for a dairy-free version, choose coconut cream.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the whipped cream; a sugar alternative can be used for a low-sugar treat.

For Topping
• Chopped Pecans – Adds a lovely crunch and garnishing touch; walnuts can be used, or omit for a nut-free version.

These Pumpkin Pie Tacos are simple to prepare and guarantee a delightful experience for all!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pumpkin Pie Tacos

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your tortillas will become perfectly crispy while baking. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and equipment, including a cookie cutter and an upside-down muffin tin to create the taco shells.

Step 2: Prepare the Tortillas
Using your cookie cutter, cut out 3-4 rounds from each tortilla, aiming for a size of about 4-4.5 inches. This will create the perfect shape for your Pumpkin Pie Tacos. After cutting, use a fork to poke holes in each tortilla 4-5 times to prevent them from bubbling in the oven.

Step 3: Create the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
On a plate, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined. This mixture will give your Pumpkin Pie Tacos a deliciously sweet and aromatic crust. Brush each tortilla with melted butter using a pastry brush, then generously coat them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture for an irresistible flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Tortillas
Flip a muffin tin upside down and carefully place the coated tortillas between the muffin cups. Bake in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them, as you want that perfect crunchy texture without burning.

Step 5: Make the Whipped Cream
While the tortillas cool, prepare the whipped cream by adding heavy cream, powdered sugar, and pure vanilla extract to a mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat the ingredients together until stiff peaks form, creating a fluffy and airy topping for your Pumpkin Pie Tacos.

Step 6: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling
In a separate bowl, beat together cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Add pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice, mixing everything together until fully incorporated. This filling should be rich and well-mixed to complement the crispy taco shells beautifully.

Step 7: Assemble the Tacos
Once your tortillas have cooled, it’s time to assemble your Pumpkin Pie Tacos. Pipe or spoon the creamy pumpkin filling into each taco shell, filling them generously for maximum flavor. Top with a dollop of whipped cream, and for an added touch, sprinkle cinnamon and chopped pecans over the filling to create a delightful finish.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Pumpkin Pie Tacos immediately to savor their crispiness and creamy filling. The combination of textures and flavors makes these treats a perfect way to celebrate the fall season at gatherings or cozy dinners. Enjoy the smiles on your loved ones’ faces as they indulge in this unique twist on a classic dessert!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Pie Tacos

Fridge: Store unfilled taco shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain their crispiness. The pumpkin filling can also be refrigerated separately.

Freezer: If you want to prepare ahead, freeze the taco shells (uncooked) in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking.

Reheating: For freshly filled tacos, serve immediately to enjoy their crunch. If needed, reheat the shells in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes for optimal texture.

Filling Storage: The pumpkin filling can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to keep it separate from the shells until ready to serve for the best flavor experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Pie Tacos are a lifesaver for busy home cooks looking to enjoy fall flavors without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the taco shells and pumpkin filling up to 2 days in advance. Simply bake the tortilla shells and allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispiness. The pumpkin filling can be made and refrigerated in a separate container to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy, just scoop the filling into the taco shells and top with whipped cream for a delightful dessert that tastes just as fresh as when you made it!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Pie Tacos

Ensure Proper Poking: Poke holes in the tortillas to prevent air bubbles that can spoil the crispy texture during baking.
Fresh Tortillas Work Best: Use freshly cut tortillas instead of pre-packaged ones for the crispiest taco shells. Bake immediately after assembly for the best results.
Chill the Filling: Keep the pumpkin filling cold before adding it to the taco shells. This helps maintain the structure and enhances the overall flavor of your Pumpkin Pie Tacos.
Watch Your Baking Time: Keep an eye on your tacos while baking; they should be golden brown, crispy, and not burnt. Adjust your time depending on your oven’s heat.
Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Add chocolate chips or swap out the nuts for seeds to customize your Pumpkin Pie Tacos to your taste.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Pie Tacos

There’s nothing quite like creating a cozy and festive atmosphere with delightful side dishes that elevate your dessert experience.

Apple Cider: A warm, spiced apple cider complements the pumpkin beautifully, enhancing the fall flavors of your meal.
Spiced Tea: The aromatic notes of chai or spiced tea create a soothing balance to the sweetness of the tacos, perfect for chilly evenings.
Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast, cutting through the richness of the pumpkin filling for a well-rounded taste.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy goodness of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with Pumpkin Pie Tacos, offering a melty, sweet delight in each bite.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy, sweet potato fries add a savory counterpart, balancing the sweetness of desserts while keeping the autumn theme alive.
Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of chocolate over the whipped cream topping adds richness and a surprise twist that marries perfectly with pumpkin.
Pecans or Walnuts: Toasted nuts offer a satisfying crunch and deeper flavor that enhances the texture experience of each taco, making every bite unforgettable.
Mini Pumpkin Muffins: These fluffy muffins echo the flavors in the tacos while adding a delightful variety to your dessert spread, pleasing all guests.

Variations & Substitutions for Pumpkin Pie Tacos

Feel free to mix and match these delightful ideas to make your Pumpkin Pie Tacos even more personalized and scrumptious!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortillas instead of regular flour tortillas. They will offer the same enjoyable crunch while accommodating those with dietary restrictions.
Dairy-Free: Replace butter with coconut oil for the tortillas and heavy cream with coconut cream for the whipped topping. This maintains flavor while making it suitable for dairy-free diets.
Brown Sugar Twist: Swap granulated sugar for brown sugar in the cinnamon-sugar mix to give your taco shells a richer flavor profile and a hint of molasses.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the pumpkin filling for a delightful spicy kick that contrasts the sweetness of the dessert. This surprising twist adds depth and excitement to every bite.
Nut-Free: If you have nut allergies, simply omit the pecans from the topping. For added texture, consider using pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds instead, which will also enhance the crunch.
Chocolate Delight: Stir in some chocolate chips into the pumpkin filling for a decadent chocolate-pumpkin fusion. The richness of chocolate complements the spiced pumpkin beautifully!
Maple Syrup Drizzle: Top your finished tacos with a drizzle of maple syrup to elevate the sweetness and add another layer of warmth that feels just like autumn.
Fruity Addition: Add a layer of sliced bananas or poached apples in the filling for a fruity twist that enhances the natural flavors in your tacos, making them even more delightful!

For more inspiration, don’t miss out on other pumpkin-inspired delights like Pumpkin Sugar Cookies or a warming cup of Oatmilk Pumpkin Spice. Enjoy creating your perfect fall dessert!

Pumpkin Pie Tacos Recipe FAQs

What kind of tortillas should I use for Pumpkin Pie Tacos?
I recommend using flour tortillas for a traditional texture, but you can easily substitute with gluten-free tortillas to accommodate dietary needs. Look for tortillas that are soft and pliable for the best results.

How should I store leftover Pumpkin Pie Tacos?
For the best results, store the unfilled taco shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the pumpkin filling stored separately in another container. This helps ensure the shells stay crispy and the filling maintains its flavor.

Can I freeze Pumpkin Pie Tacos?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the uncooked taco shells in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the shells completely before baking them in the oven.

What if my tortillas bubble while baking?
No worries! To prevent bubbling, make sure to poke holes in your tortillas with a fork before baking. This allows steam to escape, helping maintain a flat and crispy texture.

Are Pumpkin Pie Tacos safe for pets?
It’s best to avoid giving Pumpkin Pie Tacos to your pets. The spices and sugar in the filling, along with possible dairy, are not ideal for animals. Stick to pet-friendly treats to keep your furry friends happy.

How can I make Pumpkin Pie Tacos dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for the whipped topping and use coconut oil in place of butter. Additionally, swap cream cheese for a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, ensuring the filling remains creamy and delicious!