Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

These soft Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the nostalgic flavor of classic pop tarts. With a gooey cinnamon filling and a sweet cinnamon glaze, these cookies are perfect for various occasions, from holiday gatherings to cozy family nights. Easy to make and store, they offer a unique twist on a beloved favorite that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates a mouthwatering taste that will satisfy your sweet cravings.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, this recipe is approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect as a dessert, snack, or festive cookie for special occasions like Christmas and birthdays.
• Great for Sharing: With 16 cookies per batch, there’s plenty to share with friends and family.
• Deliciously Gooey Filling: The cinnamon filling adds an extra layer of flavor and texture that sets these cookies apart.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather the essential tools that will help you create these delicious Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies. Having everything ready will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools ensure thorough mixing, which helps achieve the ideal cookie dough consistency.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy when baking your cookies.
• Wire rack: Allows cookies to cool evenly, maintaining their shape and texture.

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 brown sugar to the bowl of a stand mixer. Beat on medium-high speed for 2–3 minutes until creamy. Then add the vanilla extract and eggs. Beat for another 1–2 minutes until light and fluffy.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the dry ingredients in a separate bowl until combined. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on medium speed for about 1–2 minutes. Stop occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl. Once combined, cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for one hour.

Step 3: Preheat Oven

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

Step 4: Make the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine all filling ingredients until smooth. Use about two teaspoons of this mixture to scoop out portions. Roll them into balls and place them on one of the prepared baking sheets.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Scoop chilled dough using a 1/4 cup measuring cup. Break each portion in half, creating a well in one half. Place one ball of filling into this well, press the other half on top, pinching seams closed. Roll into a ball again to seal.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Arrange dough balls on prepared baking sheets about two inches apart. Bake for 11–13 minutes until edges are lightly golden brown. Allow cooling on the sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 7: Prepare Icing

While cookies cool, whisk icing ingredients together until smooth. Spoon icing over each cookie while it’s still warm, allowing it to spread naturally. Let set for about 15 minutes before enjoying your delicious Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies!

How to Serve Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

These delightful Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies can be served in various ways to enhance their enjoyment. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply want a sweet treat, these cookies will please any crowd.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with ice-cold milk for a classic combination that complements the sweetness perfectly.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a festive platter alongside other desserts like brownies and mini cupcakes for an impressive dessert spread.

Warmed with Ice Cream

• Heat the cookies slightly and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert that everyone will love.

Drizzled with Extra Glaze

• For an added touch, drizzle more cinnamon glaze over the top just before serving to elevate their flavor and presentation.

Gift-Wrapped Treats

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

SAVE THIS!

How to Perfect Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

To achieve the best results with your Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies, consider these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and consistency.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to avoid tough cookies.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; they should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
• Store Properly: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for several days.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts to the dough for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

These cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors and create a delightful meal experience.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can balance the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Cheese Board: Offer sharp cheeses alongside honey or fig jam for a sophisticated pairing.
3. Coffee or Tea: Brewed coffee or tea provides warmth and contrast to the sweet flavors of the cookies.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a light side that contrasts nicely with rich cookies.
5. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip fruits and cookie pieces into melted chocolate.
6. Mini Cupcakes: Serve mini cupcakes in complementary flavors like vanilla or chocolate for added variety on your dessert table.
7. Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Create an ice cream sundae bar featuring various toppings that guests can enjoy alongside their cookies.
8. Savory Snack Mix: Offer a crunchy mix of nuts, pretzels, and seasonings as a salty counterpoint to sweet desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies can be a fun experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients: Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to a dense cookie texture.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading during baking. Don’t skip this step for the best results!
• Not measuring flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements. Too much flour can make cookies dry and crumbly.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender. Overmixing can develop gluten, leading to tough cookies.
• Ignoring baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be lightly golden; overbaking will result in hard cookies.

SAVE THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• These cookies can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions you may have about making Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies.

Can I use different types of sugar?

Yes! You can mix light brown sugar with granulated sugar or experiment with dark brown sugar for a richer flavor.

How do I make these Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies vegan?

Substitute unsalted butter with plant-based butter and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs for a vegan version.

What is the best way to decorate my cookies?

You can add sprinkles or drizzle chocolate on top of the cinnamon glaze for extra flair!

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of cake flour?

While it’s possible, the texture will differ significantly. Cake flour yields lighter and fluffier cookies compared to whole wheat.

Final Thoughts

These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different fillings or toppings based on your preferences. Enjoy making them for special occasions or just as a cozy treat at home!