Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings back childhood memories, these Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are just the thing! They combine the comforting flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar in a soft, chewy cookie that’s topped with a scrumptious glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings, these cookies will surely become a favorite in your home.

I love this recipe because it’s not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Baking these cookies fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone eagerly waiting for them to cool. Trust me, whether you’re enjoying them with a warm cup of tea or sharing them with loved ones, they are bound to put a smile on your face!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet cinnamon filling and creamy glaze.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the dough in advance and bake fresh cookies whenever you want a treat.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates a classic taste that feels like a warm hug.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or an afternoon snack, these cookies fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have at home. They come together beautifully to create the perfect cookie dough and delicious filling.

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

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Add some chocolate chips: Stir in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
• Try different spices: Experiment with nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist on flavor.
• Use different fillings: Swap out the cinnamon filling for fruit preserves or nut butter for variety.
• Make them mini: Shape smaller cookies for bite-sized treats that are perfect for sharing.

How to Make Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

Step 1: Cream Together Butter and Sugars

Add the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat on medium-high speed for about 2-3 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cookies that delightful texture. Then add in the vanilla and eggs; beat again until combined.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients until well mixed. This helps ensure even distribution of baking soda, baking powder, and salt throughout your cookie dough. Once combined, gradually add this mixture into your wet ingredients while mixing on medium speed until everything comes together nicely—about 1-2 minutes should do!

Step 3: Chill Your Dough

Cover your cookie dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for one hour. Chilling is important because it firms up the dough, making it easier to handle when you form the cookies later.

Step 4: Prepare Filling

While waiting for the dough to chill, mix together all of your filling ingredients in a medium bowl. Stir until smooth—this gooey mixture is what makes these cookies so special! Use about two teaspoons of this filling rolled into small balls; set them aside on a plate.

Step 5: Form Your Cookies

Once chilled, scoop out about 1/4 cup of dough using a measuring cup or large cookie scoop. Divide each scoop into two halves. Create a small well in one half; place one ball of filling inside before pressing the other half on top. Pinch the edges to seal everything in tightly—this ensures no filling escapes during baking!

Step 6: Bake Away!

Arrange your formed cookie balls on parchment-lined baking sheets about two inches apart. Bake at 350°F for 11-13 minutes until they’re just set with lightly golden edges. Let them cool on the sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to wire racks.

Step 7: Drizzle That Glaze

While your cookies cool completely, whisk together all icing ingredients until smooth. Place parchment paper under your cooling rack and drizzle icing over each cookie generously—let it spread out beautifully! Allow it to set for about 15 minutes before digging in.

Enjoy every bite of your homemade Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

Making these cookies is a delightful experience, and a few insider tips can take your baking to the next level!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Starting with room temperature butter and eggs allows for better incorporation, resulting in a smoother dough that bakes evenly.

• Chill the dough: Don’t skip chilling the dough! It helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking and enhances the flavors as they meld.

• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies in the oven. They should be just set with lightly golden edges—overbaking can lead to dry cookies.

• Customize the filling: Feel free to experiment with different fillings! You can use fruit preserves, nut butter, or chocolate chips for a fun twist on the classic flavor.

• Let them cool completely: Allowing your cookies to cool completely before icing ensures that the glaze sets properly and doesn’t melt into the warm cookie.

How to Serve Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are not just delicious; they’re also visually appealing! Here are some fun ways to present them that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Sprinkles: Add colorful sprinkles on top of the icing for a festive touch that’s perfect for celebrations or holidays.
• Chopped nuts: A sprinkle of finely chopped pecans or walnuts adds a lovely crunch and complements the sweetness of the cookies.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream makes an excellent pairing with these warm cookies, balancing out their sweetness.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the cookies while providing a pop of color on your plate.
• Coffee or tea: Serving these cookies alongside a cup of coffee or herbal tea creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for an afternoon treat or dessert.
• Milk: A classic pairing, serving cold milk enhances the nostalgic feel of enjoying pop tarts as a child!

Enjoy making and sharing these delightful Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies. They’re sure to bring smiles and warmth to any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and have delicious treats on hand for any occasion. Here are some simple tips to ensure your cookies stay fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator where they can last up to a week.

Freezing

• Before baking, you can freeze the filled cookie dough balls on a baking sheet until firm.
• Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To bake from frozen, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and warm them for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a quick treat.

FAQs

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

Can I use different fillings for Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different fillings such as fruit preserves or chocolate chips. Just ensure they complement the brown sugar and cinnamon flavors.

How do I keep my Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies soft?

To keep these cookies soft, ensure they are stored in an airtight container once cooled. Adding a slice of bread into the container can also help retain moisture.

Can I make Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How long do these cookies last?

When stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container, these cookies will last around 5 days. If refrigerated, they can last up to a week.

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

For decoration, you can drizzle melted chocolate or sprinkle colorful sprinkles over the glaze once it has set. Get creative with your favorite toppings!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies! They’re not only delicious but also bring back memories of childhood treats enjoyed on special occasions. Whether you’re sharing them with family or savoring them yourself, each bite is sure to bring warmth and happiness. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let this recipe fill your kitchen with enticing aromas. Happy baking!