Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to brighten up your day, these Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are just the answer! With their soft texture and gooey cinnamon filling, they remind me of childhood snacks but with a homemade twist. The warm aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen will have everyone gathering around, eager to enjoy these little gems. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you need a sweet pick-me-up that feels special.

These cookies not only taste amazing but are also super easy to whip up. Whether you’re sharing them at a holiday party or simply enjoying them with a cup of tea, they are sure to become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these delicious cookies.
• Family-friendly: Everyone will love the familiar pop tart flavors in cookie form!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the dough in advance and bake fresh cookies whenever you’re ready.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates a warm, inviting taste that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for any occasion: These cookies fit right in at holiday gatherings, birthday parties, or just as an afternoon treat.

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 what 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 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 flexible, so feel free to get creative! Here are some fun variations you might enjoy:

• Switch up the filling: Try adding chocolate chips or dried fruits like cranberries for a different taste.
• Change the glaze: Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or maple instead of vanilla in your icing.
• Add sprinkles: Top the icing with colorful sprinkles for a festive touch!
• Make it healthier: Substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter version.

How to Make Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butters and Sugars

Start by adding the room-temperature butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar into your mixing bowl. Beat them together on medium-high speed for about 2-3 minutes until fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the mixture, making your cookies light and tender. Then add in your vanilla extract and eggs, mixing until everything is well combined.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together all of your dry ingredients—cake flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these together ensures even distribution throughout your dough. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients while beating on medium speed. Remember to scrape down the sides of your bowl as needed! Once combined, cover your dough and chill it in the fridge for one hour. Chilling helps develop flavors and makes rolling easier later on.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

While you wait for your dough to chill, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper; this prevents sticking and makes clean-up easier.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, mix together softened butter, light brown sugar, cinnamon, and cake flour until smooth. This filling will be ooey-gooey goodness inside each cookie! Use a heaping teaspoon to scoop out portions of this filling and roll them into small balls.

Step 5: Assemble Your Cookies

Using a large cookie scoop or measuring cup, take out chilled dough portions (about 1/4 cup each). Divide each portion in half; create a well in one half and place one ball of filling inside before covering it with the other half. Pinch the edges tightly to seal everything inside—this ensures that delicious filling doesn’t escape while baking!

Step 6: Bake Your Cookies

Arrange these dough balls on your prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Bake them in your preheated oven for about 11-13 minutes until they’re just set but still slightly soft. Let them cool on the sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 7: Make the Icing

While those heavenly cookies cool down completely, prepare your icing by whisking together powdered sugar, cinnamon, melted butter, and milk until smooth. Place parchment paper under your cooling rack; then drizzle or spoon icing over each cookie once they’ve cooled down enough not to melt it away! Allow it to set for about 15 minutes before indulging.

Enjoy every bite of these delectable Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

Making these cookies can be a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you’ll have them turning out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients – Ensuring your butter and eggs are at room temperature helps create a smooth batter, leading to soft and fluffy cookies.

• Chill the dough – Allowing the cookie dough to chill for an hour not only makes it easier to handle but also enhances the flavors, resulting in a more delicious cookie.

• Don’t skip the parchment paper – Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper prevents sticking and allows for even baking, ensuring your cookies come out beautifully.

• Keep an eye on baking time – Every oven is different, so start checking on your cookies around the 11-minute mark. You want them set but not overbaked!

• Let them cool completely before icing – Allowing your cookies to cool ensures that the icing doesn’t melt into them, creating a delightful contrast of textures.

How to Serve Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are perfect for any occasion! They can be enjoyed as a sweet treat after dinner or served at gatherings. Here are some ideas on how to present them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Sprinkle of cinnamon sugar – Lightly dusting the top of each iced cookie with cinnamon sugar adds a lovely touch of sweetness and extra flavor.

• Chopped nuts – A sprinkle of finely chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the icing gives a delightful crunch and complements the soft cookie texture.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream – A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream next to these warm cookies creates a heavenly dessert combo that everyone will love.

• Coffee or tea – Pairing these cookies with a cup of coffee or tea enhances their flavors, making for a cozy afternoon snack or dessert.

• Fresh fruit salad – A refreshing fruit salad balances out the sweetness and adds a pop of color to your dessert table. Strawberries, blueberries, and bananas work wonderfully!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to enjoy your delicious Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies in style! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are perfect for meal prep! They store well, making them an ideal treat to have on hand for any occasion.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cookies to cool completely.
• Place the cookies in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Before baking, freeze the assembled cookie dough balls on a baking sheet until solid.
• Transfer frozen cookie dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave for 10-15 seconds if you’re in a hurry.

FAQs

Got questions? No worries! Here are some common queries regarding these delightful cookies.

Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies?

Yes! You can replace all the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the texture.

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

The cookies are done when the tops look set and the edges are lightly golden brown. They will continue to cook slightly as they cool on the baking sheet.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with fillings—try fruit preserves, chocolate chips, or nuts for a fun twist!

How should I store my Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies?

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use plant-based butter alternatives. The results may vary slightly but still delicious!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies as much as I do! They bring back nostalgic flavors while being easy enough for anyone to whip up. Whether you’re sharing them at gatherings or savoring them yourself, these cookies are bound to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!