Name: Vegan Apple Pop Tarts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup vegan butter, cold and cubed; ¼ cup cold water; 3 medium apples, peeled and finely chopped; 1 tablespoon vegan butter; ⅓ cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 pinch salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; ½ cup vegan cream cheese; ¼ cup powdered sugar; ½ teaspoon cinnamon; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon dairy-free milk; 1 pinch salt; Maple syrup, for brushing

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I love making these vegan apple pop tarts when I want a cozy, homemade treat that feels nostalgic but tastes even better than the store-bought version. The flaky pastry, spiced apple filling, and creamy frosting come together into something comforting and satisfying that I enjoy any time of day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it is completely homemade yet still very approachable. I enjoy being able to control the sweetness and spices, and I always appreciate how fresh the filling tastes. I also love that these pop tarts are vegan, customizable, and perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the dough
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup vegan butter, cold and cubed
¼ cup cold water

For the filling
3 medium apples, peeled and finely chopped
1 tablespoon vegan butter
⅓ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 pinch salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the frosting
½ cup vegan cream cheese
¼ cup powdered sugar
½ teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon dairy-free milk
1 pinch salt

Directions

I begin by preparing the dough. I combine the flour, sugar, salt, and cold cubed vegan butter in a large bowl. Using my hands, I break the butter into the flour until the mixture looks crumbly. I add the cold water and mix just until a dough forms. I shape it into a ball and refrigerate it for 45 minutes so it firms up.

While the dough chills, I make the filling. I add the chopped apples, vegan butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt to a pan over medium heat. I cook the mixture for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft. I blend the mixture until smooth, then return it to the pan, stir in the cornstarch, and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until thickened. I set the filling aside to cool.

Once the dough is ready, I roll it out on a lightly floured surface and cut it into 16 rectangles, each about 5 by 7 inches. I place 8 rectangles on a lined baking sheet and spoon some apple filling into the center of each one. I place the remaining rectangles on top, seal the edges with a fork, and poke three small holes in the tops. I lightly brush the tops with maple syrup.

I bake the pop tarts at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. While they bake, I whisk together all the frosting ingredients until smooth. After the pop tarts are completely cooled, I spread the frosting on top and sprinkle a little extra cinnamon if I want.

Servings And Timing

I usually get 8 pop tarts from this recipe.
Preparation time is about 20 minutes.
Chill time is 45 minutes.
Bake time is 20 minutes.
Total time is approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes swap the apples for pears for a slightly different flavor. When I want something fruitier, I use berries and leave out the cinnamon. If I need to save time, I use vegan puff pastry or vegan pie dough instead of making the dough from scratch. For a gluten-free option, I use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover pop tarts in a single layer in the refrigerator for up to three days. If I plan to reheat them, I keep them unfrosted. I warm them in the oven, air fryer, or toaster oven, then add the frosting afterward.

FAQs

Can I Freeze These Vegan Pop Tarts?

I freeze them unfrosted in an airtight container for up to three months. I thaw them at room temperature before frosting and serving.

Do They Brown Like Traditional Pop Tarts?

I notice they do not brown as deeply, but brushing maple syrup on top helps give them a nice color.

Can I Eat Them Warm?

I enjoy them warm, especially without frosting. When I add frosting to a warm pop tart, I expect it to melt slightly.

Which Apples Work Best?

I like using baking apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Gala, or Pink Lady because they hold their flavor well.

Can I Skip The Frosting?

I often skip the frosting when I want a less sweet option. The apple filling still makes them delicious on its own.

Conclusion

I always enjoy making these vegan apple pop tarts because they feel special, comforting, and homemade. They are easy to customize and perfect for sharing or enjoying throughout the week. Every time I make them, they remind me why simple, homemade desserts are always worth the effort.