Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that brings back childhood memories, these Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are just the thing! They have that delightful gooey cinnamon filling and a glaze that makes each bite feel like a warm hug. I love making these cookies for family gatherings or even busy weeknights when we need a little something special to brighten our day. Plus, they’re so easy to whip up—you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy them with loved ones.

These cookies are not just a tasty dessert; they’re also perfect for sharing at holiday parties or cozy get-togethers. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why this recipe is a favorite in my home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can have these cookies ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love helping out in the kitchen and devouring these delicious treats!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dough ahead of time and bake fresh cookies whenever you’re ready.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual snack or a festive dessert, these cookies fit right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delightful Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll gather:

For the 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 Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
• 2 1/2 Tablespoon milk

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to play around with different flavors and fillings. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the filling: Try using fruit preserves or chocolate chips instead of the cinnamon filling for a different twist!
• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add some crunch to your cookies—just mix them into the dough or sprinkle on top before baking.
• Change up the spices: Experiment with nutmeg or allspice in your filling for a unique flavor profile.
• Decorate differently: Instead of icing, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle melted chocolate for an extra special touch.

How to Make Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butters and Sugars

Begin 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 it’s fluffy and creamy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into your mixture, leading to soft and chewy cookies!

Step 2: Mix in Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add in those lovely eggs and vanilla extract. Continue beating for another minute or two until everything is well combined. This adds moisture and flavor that will make your cookies irresistibly tasty.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together all your dry ingredients: cake flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This helps ensure that everything is evenly distributed throughout your dough.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Now it’s time to combine wet and dry ingredients. Gradually add the dry mixture to your wet mixture while beating on medium speed for about 1-2 minutes. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of your bowl! Once combined, cover it up and let it chill in the fridge for an hour. Chilling helps solidify the butter which leads to better-textured cookies when baked.

Step 5: Prepare Your Filling

While waiting for the dough to chill, mix together your filling ingredients in another bowl until smooth. This gooey center is what makes these Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies so special!

Step 6: Shape Your Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your cookie dough balls. Scoop out portions using a measuring cup—about a quarter cup should do—and flatten half of each portion to create a well for your filling. Place one ball of filling inside each well before topping with another half of dough. Pinch any seams closed!

Step 7: Bake Away!

Arrange those delightful cookie balls on parchment-lined baking sheets about two inches apart. Bake them for about 11-13 minutes until they’re just set with lightly golden edges. Let them cool on the tray for five minutes before transferring them to wire racks.

Step 8: Make That Glaze

While those heavenly cookies cool down, whisk together all your glaze ingredients until smooth. The glaze adds that final touch of sweetness—spoon it generously over each cookie!

Now take a moment to admire your handiwork as they set! In just under two hours from start to finish, you’ve made homemade Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies that everyone will adore! Enjoy every last bite!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

Making these cookies is a delightful experience, and with a few handy 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, creamy batter that’s easier to mix and results in a fluffier cookie.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for an hour not only makes it easier to handle but also enhances the flavors and helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft, chewy ones.

• Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cookies a minute or two early. They should be set on top and lightly golden around the edges for perfect texture.

• Let Them Cool Completely: Cooling cookies on a wire rack allows air circulation, preventing sogginess and ensuring the glaze sets nicely without being too runny.

How to Serve Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

These cookies can be enjoyed in various ways, whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or indulging during a cozy night in. Here are some fun ideas for serving them!

Garnishes

• Sprinkle of Cinnamon: A light dusting of cinnamon on top of the glaze adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the cookie’s filling beautifully.
• Drizzle of Chocolate: A drizzle of melted dark or white chocolate can elevate these cookies into something truly special, adding richness and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a burst of color and balance to the sweetness of the cookies. The natural sugars from fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi make for a delightful contrast.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Warm cookies paired with cold vanilla ice cream create a delicious dessert experience that’s hard to resist. The creaminess of the ice cream pairs perfectly with the gooey filling.
• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea complements these sweet treats beautifully. The slight bitterness from coffee balances out the sweetness while tea provides a gentle warmth.
• Milk: You can’t go wrong with a classic glass of milk! It’s the perfect pairing for these cookies, enhancing both flavor and nostalgia.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to bring out your inner baker! Enjoy making these Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies—they’re sure to become a favorite in your home!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their deliciousness any time. With a few simple tips, you can make them ahead of time and keep them fresh for days!

Storing Leftovers

• Let the cookies cool completely before storing.
• Place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes.
• You can also microwave them for about 10-15 seconds if you’re in a hurry.

FAQs

If you’re curious about these delightful treats, here are some common questions!

Can I make Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for each egg.

How do I store Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies?

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them!

What makes Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies different from regular cookies?

The unique combination of light brown sugar and cinnamon filling gives these cookies their characteristic pop tart flavor and gooey texture that sets them apart from standard cookie recipes.

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

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even swapping out the cinnamon filling for fruit preserves to create your own twist!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies as much as I do! They not only bring back nostalgic memories but also fill your home with warmth and sweetness. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with friends and family, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor every delicious bite!