Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines nostalgia with deliciousness, these Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are just what you need! They bring back memories of those classic pop tarts we all loved as kids, but with a homemade twist. The gooey cinnamon filling and sweet glaze make these cookies perfect for any occasion—be it a busy weeknight or a fun family gathering. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe is one of my favorites.

These cookies are not only simple to make but also great for sharing. They keep well, so you can enjoy them throughout the week or pack them up for friends and family. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making these Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers will find success with this recipe.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet, familiar flavors.
• Make-ahead convenience: These cookies can be made in advance and stored easily, perfect for busy days.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

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 Tablespoon cake flour

For the Glaze

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

Now that you’ve got everything ready, let’s explore some fun variations you can try!

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies using these tasty ideas:

• Add chocolate chips: Mix in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat.
• Use different spices: Swap out the cinnamon for nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice to change up the flavor profile.
• Try fruit filling: Instead of a cinnamon filling, use fruit preserves or jams like strawberry or raspberry for a fruity twist.
• Decorate with sprinkles: Add colorful sprinkles on top of the glaze to make them festive and fun!

How to Make Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Begin by adding the room-temperature butter along with both sugars into the bowl of a stand mixer. Beat on medium-high speed for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it helps incorporate air into the dough, giving your cookies that lovely soft texture.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

Next, add the vanilla extract and eggs to your mixture. Beat again for another minute or two until well combined. The eggs add moisture and help bind everything together.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together all your dry ingredients: cake flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these separately ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents throughout your dough.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture while beating on medium speed. It’s important to stop occasionally to scrape down the sides of your bowl so everything gets mixed evenly. Once combined, cover your dough and chill it in the fridge for one hour—this step helps firm up the dough for easier handling.

Step 5: Preheat Your Oven

While your dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and prevents sticking!

Step 6: Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, stir together softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cake flour until smooth. Using a heaping teaspoon (about 2 teaspoons), scoop out portions of this filling and roll them into balls. Set them aside on a plate as we’ll be incorporating them into our cookie dough soon.

Step 7: Form Your Cookies

Once your dough has chilled, scoop out about 1/4 cup of it using a large cookie scoop or measuring cup. Break this dough in half and create a well in one half. Place one ball of filling inside this well before covering it with the other half of dough. Pinch around the seams to seal everything inside before rolling it into a ball once more.

Step 8: Bake Your Cookies

Arrange your cookie balls on prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Bake them in your preheated oven for about 11-13 minutes until they’re just set with lightly golden edges. After baking, allow them to cool on the sheet for about five minutes before moving them to a wire rack.

Step 9: Whisk Together Your Icing

While your cookies cool completely, whisk together powdered sugar, cinnamon, melted butter, and milk until smooth—this will be our delicious glaze!

Step 10: Ice Your Cookies

Once cooled completely, place parchment paper under your cooling rack and spoon icing over each cookie generously. Allow them to sit for about 15 minutes so that icing can set before enjoying!

And there you have it! A delightful batch of Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies that will surely become a favorite in your home. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and a few helpful tips will ensure your Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the butter and sugars blend more easily, resulting in a fluffier cookie dough.
• Chill the dough: Allowing the dough to chill for an hour not only makes it easier to handle but also enhances the flavors, giving you that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Don’t skip the parchment paper: Lining your baking sheets with parchment prevents sticking and ensures even baking, making cleanup a breeze!
• Keep an eye on baking time: Since oven temperatures can vary, check your cookies a minute or two early. You want them just set with lightly golden edges for that perfect soft center.
• Let them cool completely before icing: Icing warm cookies can lead to a gooey mess; cooling them properly allows the glaze to set beautifully.

How to Serve Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

These delicious cookies are not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for the eyes! Presenting them well will make them even more enjoyable.

Garnishes

• Sprinkle of cinnamon: A light dusting of cinnamon on top adds both flavor and a lovely rustic look to your cookies.
• Chopped nuts: Finely chopped pecans or walnuts can add texture and an appealing crunch when sprinkled over the icing.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with these sweet cookies, creating a delightful dessert experience.
• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
• Coffee or tea: Serve these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat, enhancing their comforting flavors.
• Milk: A classic pairing that never goes out of style—dipping these cookies into chilled milk is pure nostalgia!

With these serving ideas and pro tips, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your scrumptious Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance, making them an excellent treat to have on hand for gatherings or late-night cravings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, consider layering them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls by placing them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• Baked cookies can also be frozen; wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For frozen baked cookies, thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to revive their softness and warmth.

FAQs

If you have any questions about making these delicious cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I make Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg or replace each egg with 1/4 cup of applesauce.

How do I know when my Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are done baking?

Your cookies are ready when the tops are just set and the edges are lightly golden brown. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of cake flour?

While you can use whole wheat flour, it may alter the texture slightly. The cookies may be denser, so consider blending half cake flour and half whole wheat flour for a better balance.

What is the best way to store Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies?

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness. If freezing, wrap them tightly before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.

Can I double this Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure you have enough space on your baking sheets and adjust your mixing bowl size accordingly. Doubling is a great way to make sure there’s plenty to share!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies! They bring a warm nostalgia while being easy enough for any baking novice. With their gooey filling and sweet glaze, they’re bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share with friends! Happy baking!