Vegan Pop Tarts Recipe (Air Fryer) | Easy, Quick & Delicious Treat

Looking for a delicious vegan treat that’s quick and easy to make? These Vegan Pop Tarts cooked in an air fryer are a game-changer! They’re flaky, sweet, and customizable, perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. By using plant-based ingredients and your air fryer, you’ll enjoy a healthier and cruelty-free alternative to store-bought Pop Tarts. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Pop Tarts have been a nostalgic favorite for many, but most store-bought versions contain dairy and artificial ingredients. This vegan version brings you all the flavor and texture without the guilt. Made with a simple vegan pastry dough, filled with your favorite jam or filling, and topped with a sweet glaze, these homemade Pop Tarts are the perfect treat for any occasion. The air fryer makes them crispy, flaky, and perfectly cooked in minutes.

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Recipe Overview

• Cuisines: American
• Course: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
• Servings: 6
• Calories: ~250 per Pop Tart

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Time Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Active Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Resting Time: 10 minutes (for cooling and glazing)
• Total Time: 40 minutes

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Equipment Needed

• Air fryer
• Rolling pin
• Pastry cutter or knife
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or spoon for mixing glaze
• Fork (for crimping edges)
• Silicone brush (optional, for brushing plant-based milk or oil)

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Ingredients

For the Pastry Dough

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for a GF option)
• 1/4 cup sugar (optional, for a slightly sweeter crust)
• 1/2 cup vegan butter or coconut oil, chilled
• 1/4 cup cold water (adjust as needed)
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Filling

• 1/2 cup fruit jam or preserves (strawberry, blueberry, or any preferred flavor)
• Optional: 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (to thicken the jam, if needed)

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp plant-based milk (e.g., almond, soy, oat)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: Natural food coloring or sprinkles for decoration

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Nutritional Information (per Pop Tart)

• Calories: ~250
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 15g

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Pastry Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add chilled vegan butter or coconut oil in small chunks. Use a fork or pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing.
4. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 10 minutes.

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2. Prepare the Filling

• If your jam is runny, heat it in a small saucepan with the cornstarch-water mixture until thickened. Let it cool completely before using.

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3. Assemble the Pop Tarts

1. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
2. Cut the dough into rectangles (approximately 3×4 inches). You’ll need two rectangles per Pop Tart.
3. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of half the rectangles, leaving a border around the edges.
4. Place another rectangle of dough on top of each filled rectangle. Press the edges together with a fork to seal.
5. Optional: Brush the tops with plant-based milk or a little melted vegan butter for extra browning.

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4. Cook in the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 2-3 minutes.
2. Place the assembled Pop Tarts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd.
3. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, checking at the 7-minute mark for doneness. The Pop Tarts should be golden brown.

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5. Make the Glaze

1. While the Pop Tarts cool, prepare the glaze.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, plant-based milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar (for thicker glaze) or milk (for thinner glaze).

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6. Decorate and Serve

1. Once the Pop Tarts are cool, spread the glaze over the top using a spoon or silicone brush.
2. Decorate with sprinkles or a drizzle of colored glaze, if desired.
3. Let the glaze set for 5-10 minutes before serving.

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Tips for Success

1. Chill the Dough: Keeping the dough cold ensures a flaky texture. If it starts to warm while assembling, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes.
2. Thicker Jam: Using a thickened jam or preserves prevents it from leaking during cooking.
3. Don’t Overcrowd: Air fry in batches if needed to ensure even cooking.

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Customization Ideas

1. Savory Pop Tarts: Replace the jam with vegan cheese, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach for a savory twist.
2. Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
3. Chocolate Filling: Use vegan chocolate spread or melted chocolate for a rich dessert version.

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Why Choose the Air Fryer for Pop Tarts?

Air fryers offer a quick and energy-efficient way to bake these treats. They give the Pop Tarts a beautifully crisp exterior without the need for deep frying or preheating a large oven. Plus, they cook evenly in a fraction of the time.

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Conclusion

These Vegan Pop Tarts are a delightful combination of nostalgia and plant-based goodness. Made in an air fryer, they’re quick, flaky, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re making them for kids or indulging in a treat yourself, this recipe will surely become a favorite. Enjoy the perfect balance of crisp pastry, sweet filling, and a sugary glaze—all in under 40 minutes!