Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of childhood nostalgia, these Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are just the thing! They bring back all those memories of enjoying the classic pop tarts, but with a homemade twist that’s simply irresistible. With their gooey cinnamon filling and sweet glaze, these cookies are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting family gatherings or just need a comforting snack during a busy week.

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to whip up a batch. You’ll be amazed at how quickly these cookies come together, making them an ideal choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making these scrumptious treats!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in no time, letting you enjoy freshly baked cookies without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet cinnamon flavors, making it a hit for family gatherings or playdates.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake whenever you’re ready for a warm cookie fix.
• Deliciously Nostalgic: These cookies evoke fond memories of childhood snacks while offering a homemade touch that makes them even better!
• Customizable: Feel free to get creative with your fillings or toppings to make each batch unique!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry! Each one plays an important role in creating those soft and gooey Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies.

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 2 eggs (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 3/4 cups cake flour
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Filling

• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons cake flour

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
• 2 1/2 tablespoons milk

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Add Some Spice: Try adding nutmeg or cardamom to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.
• Fruit Filling Option: Swap out the cinnamon filling for fruit preserves like strawberry or raspberry for a fruity twist!
• Chocolate Lovers Unite: Incorporate mini chocolate chips into the filling for an indulgent chocolate version.
• Decorate Differently: Use colorful sprinkles on top of your glaze for a festive touch perfect for birthdays or holidays.

How to Make Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

Step 1: Cream Together Butter and Sugars

Start by adding the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and packed light brown sugar to your mixer. Beat on medium-high speed for about 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined. This step is key because creaming these ingredients creates air pockets, helping to achieve that lovely fluffy texture we all crave in cookies!

Step 2: Mix in Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add in your eggs (make sure they’re at room temperature!) along with the vanilla extract. Continue mixing on medium speed for another 1-2 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. The eggs help bind everything together while adding moisture; trust me, it makes all the difference!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: cake flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt. Once they’re well mixed, gradually add this mixture into your wet ingredients. Beat on medium speed until just combined—no need to overmix here! Once done, cover your dough and chill it in the refrigerator for about an hour. Chilling helps firm up the dough so that your cookies hold their shape while baking.

Step 4: Prepare Your Filling

While waiting for your dough to chill, let’s make that delicious filling! In a medium bowl, combine softened butter with packed light brown sugar, cinnamon, and cake flour. Stir until smooth—this will create that gooey center we can’t resist!

Step 5: Shape Your Cookies

Once your dough is chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. Using a heaping teaspoon, scoop out some filling and roll it into balls. Then take about 1/4 cup of cookie dough from your chilled stash. Flatten it out slightly in your hand before placing one of those filling balls right in the center. Gently press another piece of dough over the top and pinch the seams closed as you form it into a ball again.

Step 6: Bake Them Up!

Arrange those cookie dough balls on your prepared baking sheets about two inches apart. Bake them in your preheated oven for about 11-13 minutes until they’re lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Let them cool on the sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Drizzle with Icing

While those cookies cool down—and oh boy does their aroma fill the kitchen—you can whip up that sweet cinnamon glaze! Simply whisk together all icing ingredients until smooth. Place parchment paper under your cooling rack and drizzle icing over each cookie as they sit there tempting you! Allow them to set for about 15 minutes before diving in.

And there you have it—your own batch of delightful Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies! Enjoy every last bite!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

These cookies are sure to impress, and with a few helpful tips, you’ll be on your way to cookie perfection!

• Use room temperature ingredients – Allowing your butter and eggs to reach room temperature helps create a smoother batter and ensures even mixing, resulting in soft and fluffy cookies.

• Chill the dough – Giving the dough time to chill prevents spreading during baking. This keeps your cookies thick and chewy, giving them that classic pop tart look.

• Don’t skip the parchment paper – Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper not only makes clean-up easier but also ensures that your cookies bake evenly without sticking.

• Measure accurately – Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies, while too little can make them too gooey.

• Let them cool completely before icing – Icing warm cookies can cause it to melt and run off. Allowing them to cool ensures a beautiful finish and perfectly set glaze.

How to Serve Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

These delightful cookies are perfect for sharing or enjoying alongside your favorite beverages. Here are some fun ways to present them!

Garnishes

• Sprinkle of cinnamon sugar – A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top adds an extra layer of flavor and a lovely visual appeal.
• Chocolate drizzle – A simple drizzle of melted chocolate complements the sweet glaze beautifully and adds an indulgent touch.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad – A mix of seasonal fruits like berries, oranges, and melons provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
• Vanilla ice cream – Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience that balances the warm flavors of cinnamon.
• Coffee or chai latte – Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or chai latte for a cozy afternoon treat that’s perfect for dipping.
• Milk or almond milk – Classic milk is always a great companion, but try serving them with almond milk for a nutty twist that complements the flavors perfectly.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, store them, and enjoy their deliciousness throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• If you want to keep them fresher for longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Freeze the unbaked cookie dough balls for a quick treat later. Simply place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Baked cookies can also be frozen. Wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. They will stay fresh for about 2-3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen baked cookies, simply place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes.
• For microwaving, heat one cookie at a time on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might pop up while making these delicious cookies!

Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies?

Absolutely! Using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar will enhance the flavor and give your cookies that rich caramel undertone. Just ensure you adjust the balance of sugars if needed.

How do I make my Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies softer?

To ensure your cookies remain soft, avoid overbaking them. Keep an eye on the baking time and take them out as soon as the edges turn light golden brown. Also, storing them properly helps retain moisture!

Can I substitute any ingredients in Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies?

Yes! You can use vegan butter as a substitute for unsalted butter or replace eggs with applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water. This way, you can cater to your dietary preferences!

How long does it take to prepare Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies?

The total time from preparation to enjoying these cookies is around 90 minutes. However, chilling the dough takes an hour, so plan accordingly if you’re making these for an occasion!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies as much as I do! They bring back sweet memories while adding a cozy touch to any gathering or quiet afternoon at home. Don’t hesitate to get creative with flavors or share them with friends and family; I’m sure they’ll be just as delighted! Happy baking!