Pumpkin Pie Tacos

If you’re looking for a fun and unique dessert to celebrate the flavors of fall, you’ve come to the right place! Pumpkin Pie Tacos are a delightful twist on traditional pumpkin pie, combining the comforting taste of pumpkin with the fun of taco shells. This recipe is perfect for Thanksgiving, Halloween gatherings, or even cozy nights at home when you want something special without too much fuss. It’s a hit with family and friends alike, making it a recipe that I hold dear.

These little bites of joy not only taste amazing but also look adorable on any dessert table. Trust me; they’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip up these Pumpkin Pie Tacos in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy days.
• Fun Presentation: The taco shape adds a playful twist that will delight both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble just before serving for a stress-free treat.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite nuts or spices to make it uniquely yours!
• Seasonal Flavor: Enjoy the warm spices of fall with every bite; it’s like autumn on a plate!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these delicious Pumpkin Pie Tacos. Most are pantry staples, which makes this recipe even more approachable!

For the Taco Shells

• 6 8 inch Tortillas (makes about 18-24 rounds)
• 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
• 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
• 1/3 cup Butter (melted)

For the Pumpkin Filling

• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 3/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice

For the Whipped Cream

• 1/2 cup Heavy Whipping Cream
• 2 Tablespoons Powdered Sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

For Garnish

• Pecans for garnish (chopped)

Variations

One of the best things about these Pumpkin Pie Tacos is how flexible they are! You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs.

• Add Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the whipped cream for an indulgent touch.
• Use Different Spices: Swap out pumpkin pie spice for apple pie spice if you prefer a different flavor profile.
• Try Other Fillings: Experiment with sweet potato puree or mashed bananas mixed with spices for an exciting twist.
• Make It Vegan: Use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream and vegan cream cheese as alternatives.

How to Make Pumpkin Pie Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Taco Shells

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Using a cookie cutter, cut 3-4 rounds from each tortilla shell. This gives us about 20 cute little taco shells! Poking holes in the tortillas helps keep them from puffing up too much while baking—this step ensures they maintain their lovely shape.

Step 2: Cinnamon Sugar Coating

On a plate, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Brush both sides of each tortilla with melted butter, then coat them in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This adds a delicious sweetness and warmth that complements the pumpkin filling perfectly.

Step 3: Bake the Shells

Flip a muffin tin upside down and place your tortilla pieces between each muffin cup. Bake them in the oven for about 10 minutes until they are just golden brown. Let them cool in the pan so they hold their shape!

Step 4: Make the Whipped Cream

While your taco shells cool, let’s whip up some dreamy whipped cream! Combine all whipped cream ingredients in a mixing bowl and beat until stiff peaks form. This fluffy topping will add an irresistible lightness to your tacos.

Step 5: Prepare the Pumpkin Filling

In another bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Add in pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice. Mix until everything is well combined; this creamy filling is what makes these tacos so special!

Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos

Fill each cooled taco shell with your delicious pumpkin filling using either a piping bag or spoon. Top generously with whipped cream and sprinkle with cinnamon or chopped pecans if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy every delightful bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Pie Tacos

Making Pumpkin Pie Tacos is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Choose the Right Tortillas: Opt for flour tortillas for a softer shell or corn tortillas for a crunchier bite. This choice impacts the overall texture and flavor of your tacos.

• Don’t Skip the Cooling Step: Allowing the taco shells to cool in the muffin tin helps them maintain their shape and provides a nice crunch when filled with the creamy pumpkin mixture.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Soften your cream cheese and allow the heavy cream to sit at room temperature before whipping. This ensures a smoother filling that blends beautifully.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other spices like nutmeg or allspice to the pumpkin filling for an extra flavor punch. Personalizing recipes is part of the fun!

• Make Ahead for Convenience: You can prepare the taco shells and whipped cream in advance. Assemble just before serving for a fresh-tasting dessert without last-minute stress.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Tacos

These charming little tacos are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Present them creatively to wow your friends and family during fall gatherings or festive occasions.

Garnishes

• Chopped Pecans: Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top for added crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing both texture and visual appeal.
• Cinnamon Dusting: A light sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds warmth and enhances the autumnal vibe of your tacos.
• Edible Flowers: For a fancy touch, use edible flowers that complement the warm colors of pumpkin, making your dessert look stunning on any table.

Side Dishes

• Warm Spiced Apples: Sauté apples with cinnamon and brown sugar for a warm, comforting side that pairs perfectly with pumpkin flavors.
• Candied Yams: Sweet potatoes baked with maple syrup or brown sugar create a scrumptious, sweet contrast that balances well with the tacos.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The savory crunch of roasted Brussels sprouts adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness of pumpkin pie tacos.
• Fall Salad: A salad featuring mixed greens, dried cranberries, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette provides freshness that complements the rich flavors of your dessert.

Enjoy these Pumpkin Pie Tacos as they bring joy to your fall festivities! Whether you’re celebrating Halloween or Thanksgiving, this unique twist on traditional flavors will surely impress everyone at your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Tacos are perfect for meal prep! You can make the filling and taco shells ahead of time, saving you stress when it’s time to serve.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover taco shells in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Keep the pumpkin filling and whipped cream in separate containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For best results, assemble tacos just before serving to maintain crispiness.

Freezing

• Freeze unbaked taco shells by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• The pumpkin filling can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.

Reheating

• To reheat taco shells, bake them in a preheated oven at 350F for about 5-7 minutes until crispy again.
• For the pumpkin filling, gently heat it in a saucepan over low heat or use the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delightful Pumpkin Pie Tacos, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use homemade tortillas for Pumpkin Pie Tacos?

Absolutely! Homemade tortillas will add a personal touch and enhance the flavor of your Pumpkin Pie Tacos. Just ensure they are slightly thicker to hold the filling well.

What is the best way to enjoy Pumpkin Pie Tacos?

The best way to enjoy Pumpkin Pie Tacos is immediately after assembly while the shells are still crispy. You can also add extra toppings like chocolate chips or caramel sauce!

Are there any alternatives for heavy whipping cream in this recipe?

Yes! You can use coconut cream or any non-dairy whipping cream as a substitute for heavy whipping cream if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.

How long do Pumpkin Pie Tacos last?

When stored properly, assembled Pumpkin Pie Tacos will last about 1-2 days in the refrigerator but are best enjoyed fresh!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings you joy during your fall celebrations! These Pumpkin Pie Tacos are not only delicious but also offer a fun twist on traditional desserts. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving dinner or Halloween treats, they are sure to impress your friends and family. Enjoy making them and feel free to get creative with your toppings! Happy cooking!