Irresistible Figgy Pudding Pop Tarts Recipe Perfect for Holidays

Picture this: buttery, flaky pastry filled with spiced figgy pudding and topped with a sweet glaze that glistens like fresh snow. These irresistible Figgy Pudding Pop Tarts are the perfect festive treat you didn’t know you needed but will absolutely adore. If you’re looking to impress your holiday guests or simply want to indulge in a cozy dessert that feels like a hug for your taste buds, this recipe is for you.

Let me tell you, figgy pudding is one of those traditional holiday flavors that’s warm, rich, and incredibly nostalgic. Combining it with the fun and whimsy of homemade pop tarts creates a magical experience perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack. Plus, making them from scratch lets you control the ingredients, ensuring they’re as wholesome and delicious as possible. Ready to bake something unforgettable?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for the Holidays: These Figgy Pudding Pop Tarts are brimming with festive flavors, making them ideal for Christmas morning, holiday brunches, or cozy evenings by the fireplace.
• Homemade Goodness: Unlike store-bought treats, these pop tarts are made completely from scratch, giving you control over the flavor and quality.
• Easy to Customize: You can adjust the filling, glaze, or even the spices to suit your personal taste or dietary needs.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Get the kids involved! They’ll love assembling the tarts and decorating them with festive sprinkles or patterns.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of buttery pastry and rich figgy pudding filling creates a dessert that’s indulgent yet comforting.

What sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors and textures. The filling is spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, enhanced by the natural sweetness of figs and a touch of orange zest. The pastry is flaky and tender, while the glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness to tie everything together. Trust me, it’s a showstopper that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple ingredients that come together to create a festive masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need:

• For the Pastry:
  • 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp (15g) granulated sugar
  • ½ tsp (3g) salt
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 6–8 tbsp (90–120ml) ice water
• For the Figgy Pudding Filling:
  • 1 cup (150g) dried figs, chopped
  • ⅓ cup (75ml) orange juice
  • ⅓ cup (75g) brown sugar
  • ½ tsp (2g) cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp (1g) nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp (1g) cloves
  • 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
• For the Glaze:
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tbsp (30–45ml) milk (use dairy-free milk if needed)
  • ½ tsp (2ml) vanilla extract

If you’re missing an ingredient or two, don’t worry! You can swap orange juice with apple juice or use dates instead of figs for a slightly different flavor profile.

Equipment Needed

• Rolling pin – Essential for rolling out the pastry evenly.
• Pastry cutter or knife – To shape the pop tarts.
• Food processor – Makes blending the filling a breeze (optional).
• Baking sheet – For baking the pop tarts to golden perfection.
• Pastry brush – Helps to seal the edges and apply the glaze.

If you don’t have a food processor, you can finely chop the figs and mix the filling by hand—it’ll just take a little extra effort. For budget-friendly options, you can find rolling pins and baking sheets at most discount stores.

Preparation Method

1. Make the Pastry: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Figgy Pudding Filling: In a saucepan, combine the chopped figs, orange juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Cook over medium heat for about 8–10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool completely.
3. Roll Out the Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled pastry dough to about ⅛-inch thickness. Cut into rectangles (approximately 3 inches by 4 inches) using a pastry cutter or knife.
4. Assemble the Pop Tarts: Spoon a small amount of figgy pudding filling onto half of the rectangles, leaving space around the edges. Brush the edges with water, then place another rectangle on top and gently press to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the pop tarts on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let them cool completely before glazing.
6. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled pop tarts and let it set.

Keep an eye on the oven while baking—pastry can go from golden to burnt quickly. If your dough feels sticky while rolling, sprinkle a bit more flour on your surface.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Chill Your Dough: Cold dough is key to achieving a flaky pastry. Don’t skip the chilling step, even if you’re in a hurry!
• Don’t Overfill: Resist the temptation to overstuff the tarts, as this can cause the filling to leak during baking.
• Perfect Crimping: Use a fork to press down the edges firmly to prevent the filling from oozing out.
• Glaze Like a Pro: If you want a smooth glaze, let the pop tarts cool completely before adding the icing.
• Test Your Filling: Taste the figgy pudding before filling the tarts to ensure the flavors are balanced to your liking.

Variations & Adaptations

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the pastry. Add a teaspoon of xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t include it.
• Flavor Twist: Swap figs for dates or raisins in the filling for a slightly different taste. You could also add chopped nuts for extra crunch.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Replace butter with plant-based butter and use almond or oat milk in the glaze.
• Chocolate Lover’s Version: Add a few tablespoons of cocoa powder to the filling and drizzle melted chocolate on top instead of glaze.

My personal favorite variation? Adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to the glaze. It brings out the sweetness and adds a little extra flair!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these Figgy Pudding Pop Tarts slightly warm for the best experience. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or a cozy mug of spiced tea—they’re perfect for breakfast or dessert. Arrange them on a festive tray with sprigs of rosemary or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra holiday touch.

To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months; just wrap each tart individually in plastic wrap. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each Figgy Pudding Pop Tart contains approximately:

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 3g

The figs in this recipe provide a natural sweetness and are a great source of fiber, while the spices like cinnamon and nutmeg offer anti-inflammatory benefits. Customize the recipe to meet dietary needs, such as using gluten-free flour or dairy-free alternatives.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a holiday treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, these Figgy Pudding Pop Tarts are the answer. They’re festive, delicious, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Plus, the recipe is flexible enough for you to put your own spin on it.

I’d love to hear how your pop tarts turn out! Share your thoughts in the comments, tag me on social media, or let me know what variations you tried. Happy baking, and may your holidays be filled with warmth, joy, and plenty of homemade treats!

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pastry instead of making it from scratch?

Yes, you can use store-bought puff pastry or pie dough to save time. Just make sure to roll it out to the proper thickness.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! The figgy pudding filling can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What’s the best way to freeze these pop tarts?

Wrap each unglazed pop tart individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Glaze them after reheating for the freshest taste.

Can I use fresh figs instead of dried figs?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook them longer to reduce the excess moisture. The flavor will also be slightly milder.

How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Be sure to leave enough space around the edges and press them firmly with a fork to seal properly.

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