Pumpkin Pie Tacos

If you’re looking for a fun and festive treat to celebrate the fall season, you’ve come to the right place! Pumpkin Pie Tacos are a delightful twist on traditional pumpkin pie, combining the cozy flavors of pumpkin with a playful taco shape. This recipe is a favorite in my home because it’s not only delicious but also brings everyone together during those busy Thanksgiving gatherings or Halloween parties. The best part? They’re easy enough to whip up on a weeknight yet special enough to impress your guests!

Imagine biting into a warm taco shell filled with creamy pumpkin goodness, topped with fluffy whipped cream. It’s comfort food at its best! So, let’s dive in and create these scrumptious Pumpkin Pie Tacos that are sure to become a beloved addition to your fall festivities.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: These tacos come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings.
• Family-friendly fun: Kids love helping out with filling the taco shells and decorating with whipped cream!
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble right before serving for easy entertaining.
• Deliciously different: A unique alternative to classic pumpkin pie that will wow your guests.
• Customizable toppings: Get creative with toppings—there are so many ways to personalize these tacos!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry! Let’s gather everything we need for our delightful Pumpkin Pie Tacos.

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 Pumpkin Pie Tacos is how flexible this recipe can be! Feel free to experiment and make it your own.

• Add some crunch: Consider adding crushed graham crackers inside for extra texture.
• Spice it up: Try mixing in some cayenne pepper or nutmeg for a spicy twist.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream.
• Fruit fillings: Swap out some of the pumpkin puree for mashed bananas or applesauce for a fruity variation!

How to Make Pumpkin Pie Tacos

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Taco Shells

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Using a cookie cutter, cut 3-4 rounds from each tortilla. This helps create those adorable taco shapes that will hold all the tasty filling. By using tortillas instead of traditional pie crusts, we keep things light and fun!

Step 2: Create Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

In a shallow plate, stir together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Pricking the tortillas with a fork helps prevent air bubbles while baking, ensuring they cook evenly. Brush both sides of each tortilla round with melted butter before dipping them into the cinnamon-sugar mixture—this adds that sweet, spicy touch we all love!

Step 3: Bake Your Taco Shells

Turn your muffin tin upside down and gently place the coated tortilla rounds between muffin cups. Baking them this way creates that perfect taco shape! Bake for about 10 minutes until they are just golden brown. Letting them cool in the pan ensures they hold their shape beautifully.

Step 4: Whip Up Some Cream

While your shells are cooling, let’s make that luscious whipped cream! In a mixing bowl, combine heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until stiff peaks form—this will give your tacos that light and airy topping everyone loves.

Step 5: Make the Pumpkin Filling

In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Then add canned pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice. Mixing these ingredients creates a rich filling bursting with fall flavors—perfectly creamy yet not too heavy!

Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos

Now comes the fun part! Pipe or spoon the delicious pumpkin filling into each cooled taco shell. Top generously with whipped cream and sprinkle some chopped pecans on top for an extra crunch.

Serve immediately and watch as everyone enjoys this delightful take on dessert tacos! I promise these Pumpkin Pie Tacos will be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Pie Tacos

Making Pumpkin Pie Tacos is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your taco game to the next level!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned. Fresh ingredients can enhance the flavor and texture of your filling.

• Don’t Overfill: When piping the pumpkin filling into the taco shells, be careful not to overfill them. A little goes a long way, and this will prevent any spillage when you top with whipped cream.

• Chill Your Cream: For fluffier whipped cream, make sure to chill your mixing bowl and beaters in advance. Cold tools help achieve those perfect stiff peaks!

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the pumpkin filling for an extra layer of flavor. It’s a fun way to customize your tacos to suit your taste.

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the taco shells and filling in advance! Store them separately in airtight containers until you’re ready to serve for maximum freshness.

How to Serve Pumpkin Pie Tacos

Serving Pumpkin Pie Tacos can be just as fun as making them! Here are some creative ideas to present this delightful treat.

Garnishes

• Chopped Pecans: Sprinkle some chopped pecans on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the sweet filling beautifully.

• Cinnamon Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the warm flavors associated with fall.

Side Dishes

• Caramel Apple Slices: The sweetness of caramel drizzled over crisp apple slices makes for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of pumpkin pie tacos.

• Spiced Hot Cider: A warm cup of spiced hot cider creates a cozy atmosphere that pairs perfectly with these sweet treats during chilly fall evenings.

• Autumn Salad: A salad featuring mixed greens, cranberries, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette offers a fresh and tangy balance to the dessert tacos.

• Pumpkin Spice Latte: For an extra indulgent experience, serve these tacos alongside a homemade pumpkin spice latte. The creamy coffee enhances the overall autumnal theme!

Enjoy crafting these delicious Pumpkin Pie Tacos, and let their festive charm brighten up your gatherings!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Pie Tacos are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of fall without any last-minute stress. You can make them ahead of time and store them properly for maximum freshness.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover taco shells and pumpkin filling in separate airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For best results, add whipped cream just before serving to maintain its texture.

Freezing

• You can freeze the unfilled taco shells by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• The filling can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before assembling.

Reheating

• To reheat taco shells, place them on a baking sheet at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warm and crispy.
• For the pumpkin filling, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat or microwave it in short intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Pie Tacos:

Can I use different types of tortillas for Pumpkin Pie Tacos?

Absolutely! While flour tortillas work wonderfully, you can also experiment with corn tortillas or even gluten-free options depending on your dietary needs.

How do I make Pumpkin Pie Tacos ahead of time?

You can prepare the taco shells and pumpkin filling separately in advance. Store them in airtight containers as mentioned above, and assemble just before serving for optimal freshness.

What toppings go well with Pumpkin Pie Tacos?

Feel free to get creative! Common toppings include whipped cream, chopped pecans, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra sweetness.

Are Pumpkin Pie Tacos suitable for Thanksgiving?

Yes! These delightful treats not only capture the essence of fall but also make an exciting dessert option for your Thanksgiving feast.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these delightful Pumpkin Pie Tacos! They bring together all the warm flavors of fall into a fun and delicious treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or enjoying them with family, these tacos are sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try this recipe!