Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the nostalgia of childhood snacks, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies! These cookies are soft, sweet, and filled with a gooey cinnamon filling that will take you back to simpler times. They’re just what you need for busy weeknights or family gatherings, making them a favorite in my kitchen.

What makes these cookies special is not only their delicious flavor but also how easy they are to whip up. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or just want to indulge yourself (because we all deserve it), these cookies are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you don’t need to be an expert baker to create these delicious treats.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet filling and fun glaze—perfect for baking together!
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance, making it a breeze to bake fresh cookies when cravings hit.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon gives these cookies a warm and comforting taste that everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies use simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need!

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

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing for different twists if you want to experiment!

• Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in some chocolate chips for a sweet surprise inside.
• Use Different Spices: Try adding nutmeg or ginger for a unique flavor profile.
• Swap the Sweetener: Use coconut sugar or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness.
• Create Fun Shapes: Roll out the dough and use cookie cutters to make festive shapes for holidays.

How to Make Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In your mixing bowl, add the room temperature unsalted butter along with granulated sugar and brown sugar. Beat this mixture on medium-high speed for about 2-3 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it helps incorporate air into the batter, giving your cookies that soft texture.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract to your creamed mixture. Beat again for another 1-2 minutes until everything is well combined. The key here is to ensure your mixture remains light and airy.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Gradually add your dry ingredients into the wet mixture while beating on medium speed. Stop occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl. Once combined, cover your dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for one hour—this will help develop flavors and make rolling easier.

Step 5: Prepare Filling While Chilling

While your dough chills, let’s make that irresistible filling! In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, light brown sugar, cinnamon, and cake flour. Stir until smooth. This gooey filling is what makes these cookies taste like pop tarts!

Step 6: Preheat Oven & Shape Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop out heaping tablespoons of filling and roll them into balls—this will be nestled inside your cookie dough.

Step 7: Form Cookies Around Filling

Using a large cookie scoop or measuring cup, portion out chilled cookie dough. Break each portion in half; create a well in one half, place one ball of filling inside it, then press the other half on top. Pinch seams tightly to seal in that delicious filling!

Step 8: Bake & Cool

Arrange your formed cookie balls on prepared baking sheets about two inches apart. Bake them for 11-13 minutes until they’re set but still slightly soft in the center. Allow them to cool on the sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 9: Make Glaze & Decorate

While those scrumptious cookies cool down completely, whisk together all glaze ingredients until smooth. Once cooled, drizzle or spoon this icing over each cookie—watch as it beautifully spreads over each one! Let them set for about 15 minutes before indulging.

Enjoy every bite of these delightful Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies! They’re sure to become a beloved recipe in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

Making these cookies is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfect every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Starting with room temperature butter and eggs helps create a smooth batter that combines easily and bakes evenly.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill not only makes it easier to handle but also helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies.

• Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be lightly golden around the edges and just set on top; overbaking will lead to dry cookies.

• Spoon the Icing Generously: When adding icing, don’t be shy! A generous drizzle allows the icing to beautifully cascade over the edges, enhancing both appearance and flavor.

• Storage Matters: Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them soft and chewy for days!

How to Serve Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for the eyes! Presenting them well can elevate your dessert experience.

Garnishes

• Sprinkles: A sprinkle of colorful jimmies or nonpareils adds a fun touch that’s perfect for celebrations or just brightening up your day.
• Cinnamon Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon over the icing can enhance flavor while providing an appealing visual contrast.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with these warm cookies, creating a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist.
• Fresh Berries: A side of fresh strawberries or blueberries adds a refreshing tartness that complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea brings out all the cozy flavors in these cookies, making for a comforting dessert experience.
• Milk: For those classic moments, serving these cookies with a cold glass of milk is always a winner. It enhances the flavors and provides a nostalgic touch!

Enjoy your baking adventure, and share these indulgent Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies with friends and family—everyone will love them!

Make Ahead and Storage

These delightful Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a sweet treat anytime without the fuss. You can easily store or freeze them for later, making them an excellent choice for busy days or holiday gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• If you prefer them chilled, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• To maintain freshness, separate layers of cookies with parchment paper.

Freezing

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls by placing them on a baking sheet and freezing until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag or container.
• Baked cookies can also be frozen. Place them in an airtight container with layers separated by parchment paper and freeze for up to 3 months.
• When ready to bake from frozen, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

• Reheat baked cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• For a crispier texture, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some answers to help you out!

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

Yes! You can substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just make sure it includes xanthan gum for best results.

How do I store leftover Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies?

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

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

To freeze, place unbaked dough balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. You can also freeze baked cookies layered with parchment paper.

Can I add other fillings to my Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different fillings like fruit preserves or chocolate chips for a unique twist.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies as much as I do! They’re not only easy to whip up but also bring back nostalgic flavors that everyone loves. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or treating yourself, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!