Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious treat that brings back memories of childhood, then these Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies are just what you need! Soft, buttery cookies filled with sweet strawberry jam and topped with colorful sprinkles, they capture the delightful essence of Pop Tarts in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or simply want to indulge on a busy weeknight, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Trust me, once you try these cookies, they will become a staple in your dessert rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll whip these up in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these cookies; they’re a guaranteed hit!
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or just because—these cookies fit any moment.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dough in advance and bake when you’re ready for fresh cookies!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery cookie and sweet strawberry jam is truly irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delightful recipe, you’ll only need simple and wholesome ingredients. These are things you might already have in your pantry or fridge! Let’s gather everything we need to make our Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies.

For the Cookies

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)

For the Filling and Topping

• ¾ cup strawberry jam or preserves
• Sprinkles (for decoration)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and customize it to your taste. Here are a few fun variations:

• Change the Jam: Swap out strawberry for raspberry or blueberry jam for a different fruity flavor.
• Add Citrus Zest: A hint of lemon or orange zest can brighten up the cookie dough beautifully.
• Mix in Chocolate Chips: For those who love chocolate, consider adding some semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute butter with plant-based butter and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs.

How to Make Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that when you place your cookies inside, they bake evenly from the start. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking—this little step makes cleanup so much easier!

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these first helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout your dough. Set this bowl aside while we work on the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until it’s light and fluffy—this should take about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the mixture, making your cookies nice and tender.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Extracts

Now it’s time to add in your eggs one at a time. Mix well after each addition to ensure they’re fully incorporated. Stir in both vanilla and almond extracts for that delicious flavor base that pairs so perfectly with strawberry!

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add your dry mixture into the wet mixture on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps our cookies soft!

Step 6: Shape Your Cookies

Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Flatten each ball into a 2-inch disc and create a small well in the center. This well will hold all that delicious strawberry jam!

Step 7: Fill with Jam

Fill half of your cookie discs with about 1 teaspoon of strawberry jam in that lovely well you created earlier. Don’t be shy with the jam; it adds so much sweetness!

Step 8: Seal Your Cookies

Top each jam-filled cookie disc with another disc of dough. Seal them by crimping the edges with a fork—it not only seals in that sweet filling but also adds a cute design!

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake your cookies for about 10-12 minutes until their edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack; this helps them firm up nicely.

Step 10: Optional Icing

If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle some icing made from powdered sugar mixed with milk over cooled cookies and finish off with sprinkles! Who doesn’t love extra color?

And there you have it—your very own batch of Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies! Enjoy sharing these sweet treats (or keep them all for yourself; I won’t tell!). Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and these tips will help you create the perfect Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies that are sure to impress!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your butter and eggs are at room temperature helps create a smoother batter, resulting in cookies that are tender and uniformly baked.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined prevents gluten development, leading to soft cookies rather than tough ones.
• Chill the dough if necessary: If your dough feels too soft to handle easily, chilling it in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes can make it easier to shape and work with.
• Experiment with jam flavors: While strawberry is delightful, feel free to try other fruit preserves like raspberry or apricot for a fun twist on flavor without changing the recipe’s essence.
• Decorate creatively: Beyond sprinkles, consider using edible glitter or colorful icing to make your cookies visually stunning for any occasion.

How to Serve Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies

These charming cookies can be presented in various delightful ways that will make them the star of any table setting!

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy touch that complements the sweetness of the cookies.
• Fresh strawberries: Sliced strawberries arranged around the plate bring a fresh element and enhance the strawberry flavor.
• Mint leaves: A few mint leaves not only add a pop of color but also provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet cookies.

Side Dishes

• Ice cream: Vanilla or strawberry ice cream serves as a creamy contrast that pairs beautifully with the warm cookies.
• Fresh fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the cookies, making it a lighter option.
• Yogurt parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries creates a delicious side dish that’s both healthy and satisfying.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances the experience, making these cookies an ideal accompaniment for an afternoon treat or dessert gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time, store them properly, and enjoy sweet treats throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They can last up to 5 days if stored properly.

Freezing

• To freeze, layer cookies between parchment paper in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Thaw at room temperature before enjoying or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm treat.

Reheating

• If you prefer warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake the cookies for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

If you have any questions about making these delicious treats, you’re in the right place!

Can I use different flavors of jam for Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruit jams like raspberry or blueberry. The process remains the same, and you’ll have a delightful twist on this classic recipe.

How do I achieve soft Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies?

To ensure your Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies stay soft, avoid overbaking them. Remove them from the oven as soon as the edges are lightly golden. Letting them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes will help maintain their softness.

Can I make Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies without almond extract?

Yes! The almond extract adds an extra layer of flavor but is entirely optional. You can simply omit it or replace it with additional vanilla extract if you prefer.

What makes these cookies special compared to regular sugar cookies?

These Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies combine the buttery texture of sugar cookies with a fruity jam filling and colorful sprinkles, offering a nostalgic bite that brings back memories of childhood treats.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies! They’re not just sweet treats; they carry a sense of nostalgia and warmth that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy every moment in your kitchen, and don’t hesitate to try this delightful recipe—happy baking!