These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic pop tart, featuring a soft texture filled with a gooey cinnamon filling and topped with a delicious cinnamon glaze. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are easy to make and even easier to enjoy! Whether you’re looking for a tasty treat for the holidays or simply craving something sweet, these cookies will not disappoint.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: With a rich cinnamon filling and sweet glaze, these cookies capture the essence of your favorite pop tarts.
- Easy to Make: The straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for holiday gatherings, birthday parties, or just an afternoon snack with coffee.
- Make Ahead: These cookies store well, allowing you to prepare them in advance and enjoy them fresh later.
- Impressive Presentation: The glazed top makes these cookies look as good as they taste—ideal for sharing!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Essential for achieving the perfect texture by thoroughly mixing ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success, ensuring consistent results every time.
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: Prepare the Cookie 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 vanilla extract and eggs; beat until light and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together all dry ingredients until combined. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture in the stand mixer. Beat on medium speed until fully combined, about 1-2 minutes. Stop occasionally to scrape down the bowl’s sides. Cover dough and chill in the refrigerator for one hour.
Step 3: Preheat Your Oven
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 until smooth. Using a heaping teaspoon (approximately 2 teaspoons), scoop out filling, roll it into balls, and place them on one of your prepared baking sheets.
Step 5: Assemble Cookies
Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup (or large cookie scoop), scoop chilled dough. Break each dough portion in half; create a well in one half. Place one ball of filling inside this well. Press another half on top of filling, pinching seams together securely. Roll into a ball to seal filling inside.
Step 6: Bake Your Cookies
Space cookie dough balls about 2 inches apart on prepared sheets. Bake for 11-13 minutes until tops are just set and edges are lightly golden brown. Cool on baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare Icing
While cookies cool, whisk together all icing ingredients until smooth. Place parchment paper under cooling racks; spoon icing atop each cookie so it spreads to edges. Allow icing to set for about 15 minutes before enjoying!
With these steps completed, you’re ready to savor your homemade Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies!
How to Serve Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
These delightful Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your cookie experience.
With a Glass of Milk
- Pairing these cookies with a cold glass of milk enhances their soft texture and balances the sweetness.
As an Ice Cream Sandwich
- Take two cookies and add a scoop of your favorite ice cream in between for a delicious dessert twist.
Drizzled with Extra Glaze
- For those who love icing, drizzle additional cinnamon glaze on top right before serving for an added touch of sweetness.
On a Dessert Platter
- Arrange these cookies on a beautiful platter alongside fresh fruits or other desserts to create a stunning display for guests.
With Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy these cookies with your morning coffee or afternoon tea to complement their rich flavors.
How to Perfect Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
For the best results, follow these tips to ensure your Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies turn out perfectly every time.
- Chill the Dough: Resting the dough in the fridge helps it firm up, making it easier to work with and resulting in thicker cookies.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter that blends better.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping it directly. This prevents dense cookies.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to keep the cookies tender and soft.
- Bake in Batches: Bake one tray at a time to maintain consistent oven temperature and even baking.
- Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool fully before glazing to prevent the icing from melting off.
Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
While these cookies are delightful on their own, pairing them with complementary sides can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great side dish ideas.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet cookies.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture and flavor of vanilla ice cream make an excellent partner for these cookies.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries for a healthy yet indulgent side.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the cookies for an extra decadent touch.
- Whipped Cream: Serve with dollops of whipped cream for added richness and fluffiness.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory balance against the sweet flavors of the cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are key pitfalls to avoid.
- Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough for an hour is crucial for the right texture. Don’t rush this step; it helps in keeping your cookies from spreading too much when baking.
- Incorrect measuring of ingredients: Using improper measurements can lead to cookies that are too dry or too gooey. Always use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
- Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can result in uneven cooking. Preheat your oven to 350°F before placing your cookies inside.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can make cookies tough instead of soft. Mix until just combined and stop there to maintain tenderness.
- Ignoring cooling time: It’s tempting to eat them right away, but allowing cookies to cool properly ensures they set correctly and taste better.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- They will last up to one week in the fridge.
Freezing Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
- Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
- Stovetop: Use a pan over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies that might help you while making this delicious treat.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute cake flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version of these cookies.
How do I know when my cookies are done?
The edges should be lightly golden brown, and the tops should appear just set. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Can I add other flavors or fillings?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with chocolate chips, fruit preserves, or even nuts for added texture and flavor.
How do I store leftover icing?
You can store leftover icing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a stir before using it again!
What makes these cookies special?
These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies have the nostalgic taste of classic pop tarts with a soft cookie texture and gooey filling—perfect for any sweet tooth!
Final Thoughts
These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are not only simple to make but also incredibly delicious. With their gooey filling and sweet glaze, they bring joy with every bite. Feel free to customize them with your favorite fillings or toppings, making them perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful twist on a beloved classic!
Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
Indulge in the delightful nostalgia of Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies, a charming twist on the classic pop tart. These soft and chewy cookies are filled with a gooey cinnamon mixture and topped with a sweet cinnamon glaze, offering a comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or simply satisfying a sweet craving, these cookies are easy to make and even more enjoyable to share. With their impressive presentation and scrumptious flavor, they’ll surely be a hit at your next gathering or as an afternoon snack alongside coffee or tea.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- 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)
- 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, 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
- Cream together unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together cake flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully combined. Chill dough for one hour.
- Prepare the filling by combining softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cake flour until smooth.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop chilled dough and fill with prepared filling; seal and roll into balls.
- Bake cookies for 11-13 minutes until lightly golden. Cool before glazing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (40g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
