There’s something about the chill in the air and the vibrant colors of fall that makes me crave cozy, comforting treats. One afternoon, while dreaming of festive flavors, I had a whimsical idea: what if I fused the beloved taste of pumpkin spice with the fun of tacos? Thus, my Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos were born!
These delightful creations boast crispy cinnamon-sugar taco shells filled to the brim with roasted pumpkin, crunchy pecans, and a drizzle of decadent vegan cream cheese icing. Each bite is a harmonious blend of sweet and savory, making them an unforgettable dessert. Not only are they quick to prepare, but they also offer a uniquely comforting twist that shines during autumn gatherings or a cozy night in.
Whether you’re looking to impress friends or indulge in a treat for yourself, these vegan and gluten-free tacos are sure to become your new favorite fall dessert. Let’s dive into making this scrumptious fusion of flavors!
Why are Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor Fusion: These tacos combine the warm, comforting taste of pumpkin spice with a fun taco twist, turning a classic flavor into a playful dessert.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious treat ready in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers!
Vegan & Gluten-Free: Cater to a variety of dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor. Everyone can enjoy these delightful tacos!
Crowd Pleaser: Their unique presentation and mouthwatering taste make them an instant hit at any gathering. Serve at your next party for guaranteed compliments!
Versatile Variations: Easily switch out pumpkin for apples or add a hint of spice to customize your creation. The possibilities are endless!
Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos Ingredients
For the Taco Shells
• Street Taco Sized Flour Tortillas – These provide the perfect base for your Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos; for gluten-free, opt for smaller, store-bought tortillas or make from scratch.
• Vegan Butter – Adds moisture and rich flavor; you can substitute with coconut oil if desired.
• Coconut Sugar – Use 2 Tbsp for coating; this sweetens the dish with a hint of caramel flavor and can be replaced with brown sugar.
• Cinnamon – Mix with coconut sugar for coating; it brings that warm, inviting spice typical of fall.
For the Filling
• Diced Pie Pumpkin – Use 2 1/4 – 2 1/2 lb.; this provides the rich, primary pumpkin flavor, ensuring it’s peeled and seeds removed.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Just 1 tsp adds the traditional fall spice aromas; you can create your own blend with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger if needed.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and adds a layer of complexity to the pumpkin filling.
• Sea Salt – Use 1/4 tsp to balance out the sweetness of the filling; add a pinch for the coating.
• Chopped Toasted Pecans – A 1/2 cup adds delightful crunch and nuttiness; substitute with other nuts or omit for a nut-free option.
For the Cream Cheez Icing
• Cream Cheez Icing – One batch for a creamy, sweet topping; store-bought options can be a convenient choice.
• Non-Dairy Vanilla Ice Cream (optional) – Provides a creamy finish; look for soy-free varieties if necessary.
• Whipped Coconut Cream (optional) – Adds additional creaminess and can be either store-bought or homemade.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re one step closer to indulging in the cozy delight of Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos!
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos
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Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. This ensures a perfectly roasted pumpkin that’s both tender and flavorful.
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Prepare Pumpkin: 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.
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Mix Coating: In a separate bowl, combine coconut sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt. This will create a delightful coating for your crispy taco shells.
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Fry Tortillas: Heat vegan butter in a skillet over medium heat. Fry each tortilla for 10-20 seconds on each side until they are crispy and golden brown. Immediately toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture while still warm for added sweetness.
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Assemble Tacos: Take your crispy tortillas and fill each with the roasted pumpkin mixture. Top with chopped toasted pecans and drizzle with the cream cheese icing for a creamy finish. Serve 1-2 tacos per plate.
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Add Optional Toppings: For an indulgent treat, pair your tacos with a scoop of non-dairy vanilla ice cream and a dollop of whipped coconut cream.
Optional: Garnish with extra toasted pecans for an added crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos
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Room Temperature: Leftover tacos can be kept at room temperature for up to 1 day, but it’s best to consume them fresh for the best texture and flavor.
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Fridge: Store any uneaten Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To preserve the crispy shells, reheat them gently in a skillet before serving.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the taco shells and filling separately in airtight containers. They can last up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat the tortilla shells in a hot skillet for a few seconds on each side until crispy and warm. Fill with the roasted pumpkin and toppings just before serving.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos are perfect for busy meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the roasted pumpkin filling up to 3 days in advance—just refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its flavor and freshness. Additionally, you can fry the tortillas and toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture a day ahead of time; simply store them in an airtight container to keep them crispy. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the tacos by filling the crispy tortillas with the cold pumpkin, sprinkling on the toasted pecans, and drizzling with the cream cheese icing. This way, you’ll enjoy a delightful dessert with minimal effort and just as much deliciousness!
Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on your Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos for a unique take on this cozy treat!
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Apple Delight: Substitute diced pumpkin with diced apples for a sweet and tart combination that’s equally delicious. The crispness of the apples adds a lovely texture contrast to the warm spices.
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Nut-Free Option: Omit the chopped pecans for a nut-free version. Instead, sprinkle some crunchy granola on top for added texture without the nuts.
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Gluten-Free Tortillas: Use gluten-free street taco-sized tortillas or make your own from gluten-free flour to cater to gluten-sensitive friends while still enjoying the same taste pleasure.
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Bourbon Caramel Drizzle: For an adult twist, drizzle with a homemade bourbon caramel sauce instead of cream cheese icing. It enhances the flavors with a rich, smoky undertone.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the pumpkin filling for those who enjoy a touch of heat. This fiery addition beautifully balances the sweetness!
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Chia Seed Pudding: Swap the cream cheez icing for a layer of vanilla chia seed pudding for a healthful and protein-packed creamy layer. This will lend a delightful texture and taste contrast.
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Coconut Cream Bliss: Replace the cream cheez icing with whipped coconut cream infused with a hint of maple syrup. This substitution adds a tropical twist while keeping it vegan and naturally sweetened.
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Cinnamon Roll Style: Turn it into a cinnamon roll-inspired dessert by adding a cream cheese icing swirl inside the taco shell before filling it with the pumpkin mixture. It’s a decadent twist you won’t want to miss!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos?
Cozy up your fall meals with delightful sides that complement your dessert tacos beautifully!
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Warm Apple Crisp: A classic fall dessert with cinnamon-spiced apples, it adds a comforting sweetness that pairs wonderfully with pumpkin flavor.
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Chai Tea Latte: The aromatic spices in chai mirror the pumpkin spice, creating a warm beverage that enhances the whole experience of your dessert.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: This light and airy topping offers a creamy contrast to the crispy tacos while emphasizing the vegan theme.
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Maple Glazed Pecans: Crunchy and sweet, these nuts can be sprinkled on top of your tacos or enjoyed on their own as a snack.
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Spiced Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider provides a delightful drink pairing, enhancing the festive essence of pumpkin spices.
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Gingerbread Cookies: These subtly spiced cookies add a bit of chewiness and nostalgia, capturing the essence of fall gatherings.
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Pecan Pie Bars: Sweet and rich, these bars complement the nutty flavors in your dessert tacos and will surely satisfy those with a sweet tooth.
Each pairing not only elevates the meal but also adds its own unique warmth and coziness, making your dining experience unforgettable this fall!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos
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Even Dicing: Ensure the pumpkin is diced into uniform pieces. This promotes even roasting, preventing some pieces from being undercooked while others are overly soft.
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Watch Your Tortillas: Fry the tortillas for no more than 20 seconds per side to achieve the perfect crispiness. Over-frying can lead to burnt or bitter flavors.
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Cooling Time: Allow the roasted pumpkin to cool slightly before filling the tacos. This helps prevent sogginess in the tortilla from excess moisture.
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Flexible Fillings: While pumpkin is delightful, feel free to experiment! Substitute apples or pears for a fresh twist on these Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos.
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Perfectly Sweet: Adjust the sweetness of the cream cheese icing to your liking by adding more or less coconut sugar, keeping the balance harmonious with the filling flavors.
Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pumpkin for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for small pie pumpkins, typically around 2 1/4 to 2 1/2 lbs. These will have a sweeter flavor and creamier texture, which is perfect for our tacos. Ensure the pumpkin is firm without dark spots all over, and that it feels heavy for its size—this indicates ripeness and quality.
What’s the best way to store leftover Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos?
Very! Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To maintain that delightful crispiness, reheat the taco shells in a hot skillet for a few seconds on each side before serving again. This way, they’ll be just as tasty as when you first made them!
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Can I freeze Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos?
Of course! For longer storage, I recommend freezing the taco shells and filling separately. You can place each in airtight containers, and they should last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheate in a skillet to restore their crispness.
What should I do if my tortilla shells become soggy?
It happens to the best of us! If your shells are soggy, it’s essential to let your roasted pumpkin cool a bit before assembling. Also, pan-frying your tortillas just until crispy will help ensure they maintain their crunch. If you’ve already assembled them and they’ve gotten soggy, try reheating them in a skillet for a few seconds to regain some texture.
Are these Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos suitable for diabetics?
Great question! These tacos are naturally vegan and can be adapted for those watching sugar intake. You can use sugar alternatives like monk fruit or stevia in place of coconut sugar. Just make sure to adjust the quantities to match their sweetness levels—a perfect way to enjoy this dessert while being mindful of dietary needs!
Pumpkin Spice Dessert Tacos for a Cozy Fall Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- 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.
- Heat vegan butter in a skillet over medium heat. Fry each tortilla for 10-20 seconds on each side until crispy and golden brown. Toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture immediately 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.
