Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and delicious food! While the big meal often gets the most attention, adding a kid-friendly dessert that they can make and enjoy adds a special touch to the day. Baking mini pumpkin tarts with kids is a fantastic way to involve them in the holiday preparations. They get to contribute something of their own to the feast—without causing a major mess.

Let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s as fun for kids as it is delicious for everyone at the table!

Why Make Mini Pumpkin Tarts with Kids?

Involving kids in cooking and baking helps them develop fine motor skills, expand their vocabulary, and understand more about what goes into their food. Working together on a mini tart project provides:

1. Fine Motor Development: Kids practice scooping, pouring, and mixing, all of which enhance hand-eye coordination.
2. Vocabulary Expansion: Introducing ingredients and steps like “whisk,” “purée,” and “cinnamon” broadens their understanding of cooking terms.
3. Family Bonding: Spending time together in the kitchen helps create positive memories and strengthens family ties.

Besides, it’s fun for kids to have something they’ve made on the Thanksgiving table!

Super Simple Mini Pumpkin Tart Recipe

This recipe makes 12 mini pumpkin tarts—just enough for a small holiday gathering or dessert spread.

Ingredients:

• Frozen Mini Pie Crusts: 12 pieces (perfect size for mini tarts)
• Pumpkin Puree: 1 ½ cups
• Ricotta Cheese: 1 cup
• White Sugar: 1 cup
• Vanilla Extract: ½ tablespoon
• Cinnamon: ½ teaspoon
• Nutmeg Powder: ⅛ teaspoon
• Whipped Cream and Pumpkin Spice (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (about 400°F) and place your mini pie crusts on a baking sheet.
2. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, have the kids help by adding the pumpkin puree, ricotta cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until everything is combined. Kids will love seeing the rich orange mixture come together!
3. Fill the Tarts: Using a tablespoon, help kids scoop about 3 tablespoons of the filling into each pie crust. This is a great task for small hands, and it’s not too messy.
4. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes. The tarts should be set, with a slight golden color on the crusts.
5. Cool and Decorate: Let the tarts cool completely, then add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin spice on top before serving. Kids can have fun adding this finishing touch!

Tips for Freezing Extra Pumpkin Filling

If you have extra filling, don’t worry—you can save it for later! Here’s how:

1. Portion the Filling: Scoop leftover filling into an airtight container or freezer bag. Flatten the bag to remove air and label it with the date.
2. Freeze: The filling can be stored in the freezer for up to two months.
3. Defrosting: When you’re ready to use it, let the filling thaw overnight in the fridge. Stir it well before using in mini tarts or as a topping for oatmeal, waffles, or toast.

Fun Topping Ideas and Flavor Twists

Part of the joy of making mini tarts with kids is experimenting with flavors. Here are a few ways to make these tarts unique:

• Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: For a sweeter twist, add a light caramel drizzle on top.
• Chocolate Chips: Toss a few mini chocolate chips on the filling before baking.
• Nut Topping: Add crushed pecans or walnuts for a bit of crunch.

The Joy of Thanksgiving with Kids

Baking with kids isn’t just about making food; it’s about sharing a joyful experience that strengthens family bonds and creates lasting memories. As they watch the tarts come out of the oven and cool, your kids will feel a sense of pride knowing they’ve helped make something special.

These mini pumpkin tarts are sure to be a hit on your Thanksgiving table. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also a delightful way for kids to feel connected to the holiday and contribute something meaningful to the family meal. So roll up your sleeves, grab those little hands, and start baking!

Want something savory to fill your extra mini pie crusts? Check out my post on mini breakfast quiche here.