Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic treat, offering a soft texture and gooey cinnamon filling. Perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies bring that nostalgic pop tart flavor straight to your kitchen. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates a rich, sweet taste that will remind you of your favorite pop tarts.
• Simple to Make: This recipe is straightforward with easy-to-follow steps, making it ideal for bakers of all levels.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive gathering or just a treat for yourself, these cookies fit right in.
• Store Well: These cookies can be stored easily, so you can enjoy them over several days without losing freshness.
• Fun to Customize: Add your own twist by incorporating different fillings or toppings to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies, gather the necessary tools and prepare your workspace. Having the right equipment will ensure smooth baking and great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Medium bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools streamline the mixing process, saving time and ensuring that ingredients blend thoroughly.
• Baking sheets: A good quality baking sheet helps evenly distribute heat for perfectly baked cookies.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

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

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

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients:
2. Combine the cake flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt.
3. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients in your stand mixer.
2. Beat on medium speed for 1–2 minutes until everything is combined, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
3. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for one hour.

Step 4: Preheat Oven & Prepare Filling

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while waiting for your dough to chill.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together:
3. The remaining unsalted butter,
4. The additional light brown sugar,
5. The remaining cinnamon,
6. And additional cake flour.
7. Stir until smooth.

Step 5: Shape Cookies

1. Use a heaping teaspoon (about 2 teaspoons) to scoop out filling; roll into balls and place on a baking sheet.
2. For each cookie, scoop chilled dough using a 1/4 cup measuring cup. Break dough in half; create a well in one half.
3. Place one ball of filling inside this well, cover with other half of dough, pressing down gently to seal it.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

1. Arrange dough balls on prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
2. Bake for 11–13 minutes until tops are set and edges are lightly golden brown.
3. Allow cooling on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 7: Make Icing & Finish Cookies

1. While cookies cool, whisk together all icing ingredients until smooth.
2. Place parchment paper under cooling racks; spoon icing over each cookie allowing it to spread out slightly.
3. Let icing set for about 15 minutes before serving—enjoy!

How to Serve Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

These delicious Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, here are some creative ways to serve them.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic treat that enhances their flavor.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a dessert platter alongside other sweets, such as brownies and fruit tarts, to create an inviting spread.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Serve the cookies warmed up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent dessert experience.

Drizzled with Extra Glaze

• For those who love extra sweetness, drizzle additional cinnamon glaze over the cookies just before serving.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

• Balance the sweetness by serving these cookies alongside fresh fruit like strawberries or apple slices.

How to Perfect Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

To ensure your Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing butter and eggs to room temperature helps achieve a better texture in the cookies.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least an hour makes it easier to handle and helps prevent spreading during baking.

• Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag, ensuring you do not add too much flour which could dry out the cookies.

• Watch Baking Time Closely: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; take them out when they are just set for optimal softness.

• Store Properly: To maintain freshness, store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze them for longer storage.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies can be complemented beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some delightful options to serve alongside them.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea pairs well with these sweet treats, enhancing your snack time experience.

3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side that contrasts nicely with the richness of the cookies.

4. Cheese Board: Include some mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory complement that offsets sweetness.

5. Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in chocolate offers a delightful contrast to the soft cookie texture.

6. Mini Muffins: Serve assorted mini muffins for guests who enjoy variety along with their cookie treat!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Incorrect Butter Temperature: Using cold butter will lead to dense cookies. Make sure your butter is at room temperature for the best texture.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too long can cause tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep them soft and chewy.
• Skipping Chilling the Dough: Chilling is essential for better flavor and texture. Always chill your dough for at least an hour before baking.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use the correct measuring cups for dry and wet ingredients to ensure the right ratios. Too much flour or sugar can ruin your cookies.
• Underbaking or Overbaking: Keep an eye on baking times. Remove them from the oven when edges are golden to achieve that perfect soft center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on a plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place a nonstick skillet over low heat, add cookies, and cover until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies?

Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are soft cookies filled with a gooey cinnamon filling and topped with a delightful cinnamon glaze, mimicking the classic pop tart taste.

Can I customize the filling?

Absolutely! You can change the filling by using different spices, jams, or chocolate chips based on your preferences.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes! You can freeze baked cookies or even freeze unbaked dough balls for later use. Just ensure they are well-wrapped.

What makes these cookies different from regular pop tarts?

These cookies are softer and chewier than traditional pop tarts, offering a homemade touch with a delicious glaze on top.

Final Thoughts

These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies offer a delightful twist on a nostalgic favorite. Their soft texture and gooey filling make them irresistible. Plus, you can easily customize them with various fillings or toppings, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them as a cozy treat or sharing them during festive gatherings, these cookies are sure to please everyone!