These delightful Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. With their soft texture and gooey cinnamon filling, they evoke the nostalgic taste of classic pop tarts. Easy to make and store, these cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or simply enjoying at home. Their unique combination of flavors and textures will surely impress family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates a rich, sweet flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Easy to Make: The straightforward steps ensure that even novice bakers can whip up these tasty treats with confidence.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for holidays, gifts, or everyday snacks, these cookies fit any occasion.
- Store Well: These cookies maintain their soft texture and flavor when stored properly, making them great for meal prep or last-minute desserts.
- Customizable Icing: You can easily change the icing flavors or toppings to suit your taste preferences.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into baking your Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies, gather some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: These tools save time and effort when creaming butter and sugars together.
- Baking Sheets: They provide the perfect surface for even baking, ensuring your cookies cook uniformly.
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.
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 Icing:
- 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: Cream Together Butter and Sugars
Add the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar to a bowl of a stand mixer or a hand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. Then add vanilla extract and eggs; mix well for another 1-2 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients until combined. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients in the mixer bowl. Beat on medium speed for about 1-2 minutes until everything is well combined. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Cover and chill this dough for one hour.
Step 3: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and 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 filling, roll it into balls, then place them on one of your lined baking sheets.
Step 5: Shape Cookies
Use a 1/4 cup measuring cup or a large cookie scoop to portion out chilled dough. Divide each piece in half; create a well in one half. Place one ball of filling inside this well, press another half on top, pinching seams closed tightly. Roll gently to seal everything inside.
Step 6: Bake Cookies
Arrange 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. Let cool on sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Step 7: Prepare Icing
While cookies cool, whisk together icing ingredients until smooth. Place parchment under cooling rack; spoon icing onto each cookie allowing it to drizzle over edges. Let set for about 15 minutes before serving or storing.
Enjoy your delicious Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies!
How to Serve Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
These delightful Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a cozy evening at home, these cookies can be served in various ways to enhance their appeal.
With a Glass of Milk
- Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for the classic combination that enhances their sweetness and flavor.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Create ice cream sandwiches by placing your favorite ice cream between two cookies. This combination is perfect for warm days.
Festive Platter
- Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter with fruits and nuts for an inviting dessert table at gatherings.
Coffee or Tea Pairing
- Serve with coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. The warm spices in the cookies complement the beverages beautifully.
Gift Wrapping
- Package them in cute boxes as gifts for friends and family during holidays or special occasions.
How to Perfect Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
To achieve the best results when making your Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies, consider these helpful tips.
- Chill Your Dough: Chilling the dough helps maintain its shape while baking and enhances flavor.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to accurately measure flour, preventing dry cookies.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the cookies tender and soft.
- Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on baking time; overbaking can lead to tough cookies.
- Cool Completely Before Icing: Allow cookies to cool completely before applying icing to avoid melting.
Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies pair well with several side dishes, making them versatile for any meal or gathering. Here are some delicious options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and complements the sweet flavors of the cookies.
- Cheese Board: Include a selection of cheeses with crackers for a savory contrast alongside your sweet cookies.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits as a healthy side dish that balances out the sweetness.
- Chocolate Fondue: Melted chocolate provides a fun dipping option, perfect for those who enjoy extra indulgence.
- Coffee Cake: Serve alongside coffee cake for a delightful brunch spread that everyone will love.
- Nut Mix: A mix of nuts can offer crunch and protein, providing a satisfying contrast to the soft cookies.
- Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up an ice cream sundae station where guests can top their cookies with scoops of ice cream and toppings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies can be delightful, but common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving the right texture. It prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, so use precise measurements. A kitchen scale can help ensure consistency in your cookies.
- Using cold eggs or butter: Room temperature ingredients mix better and create a smoother dough. Plan ahead to take these ingredients out early.
- Overbaking cookies: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be just set and lightly golden at the edges for the best chewy texture.
- Neglecting to cool properly: Letting the cookies cool on a wire rack ensures they set properly and prevents sogginess.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
- Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months.
- For unbaked dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, adding a cookie until warmed through, about 1-2 minutes per side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies that may help you with your baking experience.
Can I make Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer before baking.
What if I don’t have cake flour?
You can substitute cake flour with all-purpose flour by replacing it with cornstarch. For every cup of cake flour needed, measure out one cup of all-purpose flour and remove two tablespoons, replacing them with two tablespoons of cornstarch.
How do I know when my cookies are done?
Cookies are done when they are set at the edges and slightly soft in the center. They will continue to cook while cooling.
Can I customize my Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even different spices like nutmeg to make them uniquely yours.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies will remain fresh for up to one week at room temperature.
Final Thoughts
These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies offer a delightful twist on a classic favorite, making them perfect for any occasion. Their gooey filling and sweet glaze bring comfort and joy that everyone loves. Feel free to customize them with your favorite flavors or toppings for even more fun!
Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
Indulge in the delightful nostalgia of Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies, a charming twist on a classic treat. These cookies offer a soft, chewy texture with a gooey cinnamon filling that brings back fond memories of childhood favorites. Perfect for any occasion—from holiday gatherings to cozy evenings at home—these treats are easy to make and sure to impress your family and friends. Top them with a sweet cinnamon glaze for an irresistible finish that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 43 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 2 eggs (room temperature)
- 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 for filling)
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar (packed for filling)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for filling)
- 2 Tablespoon cake flour (for filling)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for icing)
- 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled for icing)
- 2 1/2 Tablespoon milk (for icing)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream together the room-temperature butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing well.
- In another bowl, whisk together dry ingredients: cake flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients until combined. Chill the dough for one hour.
- Prepare the filling by mixing softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour until smooth.
- Shape cookie dough around a ball of filling, sealing tightly. Bake for 11-13 minutes until edges are golden.
- Cool before icing with a mixture of powdered sugar, cinnamon, melted butter, and milk.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
