Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

These soft Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the nostalgia of classic pop tarts with the comforting goodness of homemade cookies. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies feature a gooey cinnamon filling and are topped with a tasty cinnamon glaze. They’re not only delicious but also easy to make and store, making them an ideal dessert for holidays, gatherings, or just a sweet snack at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates a warm, comforting flavor that will remind you of your favorite childhood treats.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these delightful cookies.
• Versatile for Occasions: Whether it’s a holiday party or an everyday treat, these cookies fit right in. They’re perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.
• Gooey Filling: Each cookie is filled with a rich cinnamon filling that adds a decadent touch to every bite.
• Store Well: These cookies can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment without losing their softness.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Ideal for achieving a light and fluffy dough by properly creaming the butter and sugars together.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for separating wet and dry ingredients before combining them, ensuring even mixing.
• Baking sheets: Provides a sturdy base for your cookies while allowing even heat distribution during baking.

Ingredients

These soft Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are packed with a gooey cinnamon filling and topped with a cinnamon glaze. They taste just like the classic pop tart and are easy to make and store.

Ingredients:
– 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
– 5 Tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
– 3/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 2 Tablespoon cake flour
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
– 2 1/2 Tablespoon milk

How to Make Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Add the butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar to the bowl of a stand mixer or hand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat on medium-high speed for about 2–3 minutes until creamy.
1. Add vanilla extract and eggs to the mixture.
2. Continue beating for another 1–2 minutes until light and fluffy.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together all dry ingredients until well combined.
1. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients in the stand mixer.
2. Beat on medium speed until everything is thoroughly combined, about 1–2 minutes. Scrape down the sides as needed.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. Chill in the refrigerator for one hour to firm up.

Step 4: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your baking sheets.
1. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 5: Make the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine all filling ingredients:
1. Stir until smooth.
2. Use about two teaspoons of this mixture to scoop out filling balls.

Step 6: Form Cookies

Using a measuring cup (or large cookie scoop), take chilled dough:
1. Divide it in half and create a well in one half.
2. Place one ball of filling inside the well; press other half on top, sealing it well by pinching seams together.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Arrange cookie dough balls on prepared baking sheets about two inches apart:
1. Bake for approximately 11–13 minutes until tops are set and edges are slightly golden.
2. Let cool on baking sheet for five minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Step 8: Prepare Icing & Decorate

While cooling, whisk together all icing ingredients until smooth:
1. Spoon icing over each cookie while still warm; let it spread naturally.
2. Allow icing to set for about fifteen minutes before serving or storing.

Enjoy your delicious Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies, perfect for any sweet occasion!

How to Serve Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

These delightful Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a party or simply indulging at home, here are some fun serving suggestions.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic treat that complements the sweetness perfectly.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create an ice cream sandwich filled with your favorite flavor for an indulgent dessert.

Drizzled with Chocolate

• Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the cookies for an extra touch of sweetness and decadence.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a dessert platter alongside fresh fruits and other treats for a colorful display at gatherings.

Gift-Wrapped

• Package the cookies in decorative boxes or bags as homemade gifts during the holidays or for special occasions.

Warmed Up

• Slightly warm the cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving to enhance their gooey filling and glaze.

Pin this!

How to Perfect Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

To achieve the best results when making Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies, keep these tips in mind for perfect texture and flavor.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps to firm it up, making it easier to handle and preventing spreading during baking.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This creates a smooth batter that incorporates air better, resulting in fluffier cookies.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method when measuring flour to avoid dense cookies. Too much flour can lead to a dry texture.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Remove them from the oven when they are just set; they’ll continue cooking on the baking sheet after being taken out.

• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to customize the filling with different spices or even jams for unique variations on these Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

While these cookies are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that balances sweetness with creamy goodness.

2. Fresh Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries provide a refreshing contrast to the rich cookie flavors.

3. Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of hot chocolate enhances the cozy feel of enjoying freshly baked cookies.

4. Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each cookie for added richness and texture.

5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse your palate between bites and add brightness to your dessert table.

6. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can offer savory notes that pair beautifully with sweet desserts like these cookies.

7. Coffee or Tea: Enjoying your cookies with coffee or tea provides a comforting experience that’s perfect for afternoon treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some tips to help you avoid them:

• Skipping the Chilling Step: It’s important to chill the dough for at least one hour. This helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking and ensures a better texture.

• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, so be sure to measure your ingredients correctly. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially with flour and sugars.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies. Overmixing can lead to gluten development, resulting in a less desirable texture.

• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven to 350°F before baking. An unheated oven can lead to uneven baking and affect the rise of your cookies.

• Skipping the Cooling Process: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step helps them set properly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to one week in the fridge.

Freezing Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

• You can freeze these cookies for up to three months.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring they are well-sealed.

Reheating Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on high for about 10-15 seconds if you want them warm quickly.
• Stovetop: For a crispy texture, place a cookie in a non-stick skillet over low heat for about 1-2 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies:

How do I know when my cookies are done?

You can tell they’re done when the tops are just set and edges are lightly golden brown.

Can I use different fillings?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fillings like chocolate or fruit preserves for variety.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

Substituting cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend should work well. Just ensure you have a good blend.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is sticky, try adding a little more flour (1 tablespoon at a time) until it reaches the right consistency.

Can I make Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies vegan?

Yes! You can substitute butter with vegan butter and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs.

Final Thoughts

These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Perfectly soft with a gooey filling and topped with icing, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as an after-school treat. Feel free to customize them with your favorite fillings or toppings!