Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic treat, perfect for any occasion! With their gooey cinnamon filling and sweet cinnamon glaze, they capture the comforting essence of traditional pop tarts. Easy to make and store, these cookies are sure to impress at holiday gatherings, birthday parties, or just as an everyday indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates a warm, inviting taste that everyone will love.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps ensure that even novice bakers can whip up these cookies with confidence.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for holidays, celebrations, or casual snacking—these cookies fit any occasion!
• Gooey Center: Each cookie features a delightful filling that adds an extra layer of sweetness.
• Store Well: These cookies maintain their flavor and texture, making them great for meal prep or gifting.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools help achieve a light and fluffy cookie dough quickly and effortlessly.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients separately before mixing them together.
• Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to baking sheets, ensuring easy removal and cleanup.

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 or hand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat on medium-high speed for 2–3 minutes until creamy. Add the vanilla extract and eggs; beat 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. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients in the mixer. Beat on medium speed for about 1–2 minutes, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for one hour.

Step 3: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets

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

Step 4: Make the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine all filling ingredients. Stir until smooth. Use a heaping teaspoon (about 2 teaspoons) to scoop out the filling mixture. Roll it into small balls and place them on one of the prepared baking sheets.

Step 5: Form Cookies

Scoop out chilled dough using a 1/4 cup measuring cup or large cookie scoop. Divide each portion in half, creating a well in one half. Place one ball of filling into this well. Press the other half of dough over it, pinching seams tightly to seal. Roll each filled dough ball gently between your hands.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Arrange the formed cookie dough balls on prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Bake for 11–13 minutes until tops are set and edges are lightly golden brown. Cool cookies on baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Ice Your Cookies

While cookies cool completely, whisk together icing ingredients until smooth. Place parchment paper under your cooling rack to catch drips from icing. Spoon icing over each cookie allowing it to spread towards edges. Let set for about 15 minutes before serving or enjoying!

With these simple steps, you can create delicious Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies that everyone will adore! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are as delightful to serve as they are to eat. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some creative ways to present these cookies.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing that enhances the sweet flavors of the cookies. Choose whole milk for richness or almond milk for a nutty twist.

For Holiday Gatherings

• Arrange the cookies on a festive platter to impress guests during holiday celebrations. Add some cinnamon sticks and star anise for an aromatic touch.

As Party Favors

• Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with twine. They make perfect homemade gifts for friends and family.

Alongside Ice Cream

• Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The combination of warm and cold is irresistible!

At Breakfast or Brunch

• Enjoy these cookies with coffee or tea as a sweet breakfast treat. Their cinnamon flavor makes them an excellent morning pick-me-up.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pair with sliced fruits like strawberries or apples for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.

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How to Perfect Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

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

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

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures that your butter and eggs mix well, resulting in light and fluffy cookies.

• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense cookies. Too much flour can ruin the texture.

• Don’t Overmix: Once you combine wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

• Watch Baking Time: Every oven varies; keep an eye on your cookies after 10 minutes to avoid overbaking.

• Let Them Cool: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set properly.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delicious ideas:

1. Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a fresh burst of flavor that complements the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy contrast that balances out the cookie’s sweetness.

3. Cheese Plate: Offer a selection of cheeses like brie or sharp cheddar that pairs wonderfully with sweet treats.

4. Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Melted chocolate creates an indulgent dipping option for those who crave extra sweetness.

5. Spiced Nuts: Roasted almonds or pecans sprinkled with cinnamon provide a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with soft cookies.

6. Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage enhances the flavors of the cookie while providing comfort during your dessert time.

7. Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up toppings alongside ice cream so guests can create their own sundaes featuring your delicious cookies!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies can be fun, but there are a few common mistakes that could ruin your batch. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Incorrect Temperature: Using butter that is too cold or too melted can affect the texture. Make sure your butter is at room temperature.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the dough too long can lead to tough cookies. Beat until just combined for a softer texture.
• Not Chilling the Dough: Skipping the chilling step can cause the cookies to spread too much. Always chill the dough for at least one hour.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Overbaking will result in dry cookies. Keep an eye on them and remove them when they are just set.
• Skipping the Icing: The icing adds essential flavor and moisture. Don’t skip this step for maximum deliciousness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies 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

• Wrap cookies individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes for optimal softness.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, warming each cookie for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies.

Can I use brown sugar substitutes for Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies?

You can use coconut sugar or maple sugar as alternatives, but they may change the flavor slightly.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies, substitute cake flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Can I customize the filling?

Yes! Feel free to add chocolate chips, fruit preserves, or nuts for different flavors inside your cookies.

What are good toppings besides icing?

Consider using sprinkles, crushed nuts, or drizzling caramel sauce on top of your Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies for extra flair.

Final Thoughts

These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them with various fillings and toppings to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!