Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie that combines nostalgia with deliciousness, you’ve found it! These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic treat we all grew up with. With their gooey cinnamon filling and sweet glaze, they bring back fond memories while being perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re having a cozy family gathering or just want a sweet snack during a busy weeknight, these cookies will surely brighten your day.

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to whip up. You’ll find that these soft cookies not only taste incredible but also fill your kitchen with an inviting aroma. Get ready to impress your friends and family with something they’ll love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The process is straightforward and requires simple steps, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will adore these cookies, and they’re fun to make together as a family.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer, making it convenient for busy days.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates a warm, comforting flavor that everyone will enjoy.
• Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are great for parties, holidays, or just because. Everyone loves a homemade treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients to make these delightful Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies. You probably have most of them already in your pantry!

For the Cookies:

• 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 Icing:

• 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 you to adapt it based on your preferences. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in some chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness and richness.
• Try Different Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or pumpkin spice in the filling for a seasonal twist.
• Use Different Extracts: Swap vanilla extract with almond or maple extract for a unique flavor profile.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute cake flour with gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten sensitivities.

How to Make Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Start by adding the room temperature butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar into the bowl of your stand mixer. 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, helping your cookies rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix in Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract. Beat this mixture for another 1-2 minutes until everything is well combined. The eggs help bind the ingredients together while adding moisture.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients: cake flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt. This ensures that everything is evenly distributed before adding it to the wet mixture.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture in your stand mixer. Beat on medium speed until combined—this should take about 1-2 minutes. Make sure to scrape down the sides of your bowl so every bit gets mixed in! Once done, cover your dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for one hour.

Step 5: Prepare Baking Sheets

While waiting for the dough to chill, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This helps ensure that your cookies bake evenly without sticking.

Step 6: Make the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cake flour for your filling. Stir until smooth; this will create that gooey center we all love! Use about two teaspoons of this mixture per cookie.

Step 7: Form Cookie Dough Balls

Using a quarter-cup measuring cup or large cookie scoop, scoop out some chilled dough. Split it in half and create a well in one half. Place one ball of filling inside this well and press the other half on top—pinch the seams tightly to seal that delicious filling inside!

Step 8: Bake Your Cookies

Arrange your cookie dough balls on prepared baking sheets about two inches apart. Bake them for around 11-13 minutes until set but still slightly soft in the middle. Once baked, let them cool on the sheet for five minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack.

Step 9: Make Your Icing

While those cookies cool down, whisk together powdered sugar, cinnamon, melted butter, and milk until nice and smooth. This icing adds that perfect finishing touch!

Step 10: Ice Your Cookies

Once cookies are fully cooled, place parchment paper under your wire rack (to catch drips!) Spoon icing over each cookie generously—letting it spread naturally towards the edges gives them that homemade charm!

And there you have it! Enjoy every bite of these nostalgic Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies; they’re sure to become a favorite in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

Baking these delightful cookies can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially with a few handy tips to ensure perfect results!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Starting with room temperature butter and eggs helps create a smoother dough and better texture in your cookies.

• Chill the dough: Allowing the cookie dough to chill for at least an hour enhances the flavors and helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thick, soft cookies.

• Don’t skip the cooling time: Letting the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack allows them to set properly, ensuring they maintain their shape.

• Spoon icing generously: When adding icing, don’t be shy! A generous spoonful will help create that classic Pop Tart look and enhance the flavor with each bite.

• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to get creative with your filling—try adding nuts or dried fruits for extra texture and flavor!

How to Serve Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

These cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, here are some presentation ideas that will impress your guests!

Garnishes

• Sprinkles: A sprinkle of colorful sugar or festive sprinkles adds a fun touch that can brighten up your cookies and make them more inviting.
• Cinnamon Dusting: Lightly dusting the top of the cookies with additional cinnamon can enhance their aromatic flavor and give them an appealing look.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy smoothness of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with these warm cookies, creating a delightful contrast in textures.
• Fresh Berries: A side of fresh strawberries or raspberries adds a fruity brightness that complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
• Coffee or Tea: Serving these cookies alongside a cup of coffee or tea offers a comforting beverage option that balances their sweetness while enhancing the overall experience.
• Milk: A classic pairing, serving your cookies with a cold glass of milk makes for an indulgent treat that everyone will enjoy!

Now you’re all set to bake and serve these scrumptious Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep your cookies fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to a week.
• If you live in a humid environment, consider refrigerating them to maintain their texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid.
• Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen cookies, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Warm them in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for that freshly baked taste.
• Alternatively, microwave them for about 10-15 seconds until warm.

FAQs

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

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of cake flour for Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies?

While you can substitute whole wheat flour, it may change the texture and taste of the cookies. Cake flour gives them a lighter and fluffier consistency that’s hard to replicate.

How do I know when my Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are done baking?

You’ll know they are done when the tops feel set and the edges turn lightly golden brown. The centers may look slightly underbaked but will firm up as they cool.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the eggs with flax eggs or unsweetened applesauce, and use plant-based butter. The flavor will still be delightful!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies as much as I do! They bring back those nostalgic flavors while being easy to prepare and share with friends and family. Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings or fillings—after all, baking is all about having fun! Happy baking, and I can’t wait for you to try this special recipe!