Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

These soft Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion. With their gooey cinnamon filling and sweet cinnamon glaze, they capture the essence of classic pop tarts while being easy to make at home. Whether for a holiday dessert or a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates a warm and inviting taste that everyone will love.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these delicious cookies with confidence.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for holiday gatherings, birthday parties, or just because; these cookies fit any occasion.
• Make Ahead Option: The dough can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, making them a convenient choice for busy days.
• Gooey Center: Each cookie is filled with a rich cinnamon filling that adds a delightful surprise with every bite.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Provides efficient mixing to achieve light and fluffy batter.
• Baking sheets: Ensure even baking of cookies while maintaining their shape.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

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.

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)
– 3/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 2 Tablespoon cake flour
– 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 the Butter and Sugars

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. Then, add the vanilla extract and eggs. Continue beating for another 1–2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt until well combined. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients in the stand mixer. Beat on medium speed until everything is mixed together, about 1–2 minutes. Remember to scrape down the bowl as needed. Once combined, cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for one hour.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

While your dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for your cookies.

Step 4: Make the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, light brown sugar, cinnamon, and cake flour. Stir until smooth. Use about two teaspoons to scoop out portions of this filling mixture. Roll them into balls and place them on one of your prepared baking sheets.

Step 5: Forming Your Cookies

Once chilled, scoop out portions of dough using a 1/4 cup measuring cup or large cookie scoop. Divide each portion in half to form two discs of dough. Create a well in one disc’s center and place one ball of filling inside. Press another disc on top of the filling and pinch the edges securely closed. Roll gently into a ball to seal.

Step 6: Bake Your Cookies

Arrange your cookie balls on the prepared baking sheets about two inches apart. Bake them in your preheated oven for 11–13 minutes until their tops are set and edges are lightly golden brown. Let them cool on the sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Create Your Glaze

While your cookies cool down, whisk together all icing ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Set up parchment paper beneath your cooling rack. Spoon icing over each cookie so it spreads towards the edges. Allow it to set for about 15 minutes before enjoying!

How to Serve Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

These delicious Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive holiday party. Here are some creative ways to serve them that will enhance your dessert experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a tall glass of cold milk for the classic cookie and milk experience. The creaminess of the milk complements the gooey filling perfectly.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a colorful dessert platter alongside fresh fruit and other baked goods. This creates an inviting display that will impress your guests.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on top. The melting ice cream will create a delightful contrast with the warm cookie.

As Party Favors

• Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbons as party favors. This adds a personal touch to any celebration and allows guests to take home a sweet treat.

Alongside Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies with your favorite hot beverage. The flavors of coffee or tea will enhance the sweet, cinnamon notes of the cookies.

How to Perfect Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

To ensure your Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing butter and eggs to room temperature helps create a smoother dough and promotes even baking.

• Chill the dough: Allowing the dough to chill for at least an hour helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.

• Don’t overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

• Check baking times: Every oven is different; start checking your cookies around 11 minutes to avoid overbaking. They should be lightly golden around the edges.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

Serving side dishes alongside your Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies can round out your dessert table beautifully. Here are some tasty options:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy contrast that pairs well with the soft cookies.

3. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda along with crackers for a savory complement to the sweet flavors of the cookies.

4. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip fruits or cookie pieces into melted chocolate for added indulgence.

5. Nut Mix: A bowl of lightly salted nuts provides a crunchy texture and contrasts nicely with the sweet softness of the cookies.

6. Coffee Cake: A slice of coffee cake alongside these brown sugar delights creates a delightful pairing for brunch or afternoon tea.

7. Apple Slices with Caramel Dip: Crisp apple slices served with caramel dip offer a fun, interactive dessert option that resonates well with cookie lovers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies can be fun, but there are common mistakes you should steer clear of for the best results.

• Bold ingredient measurements: Skipping precise measurements can lead to inconsistent textures. Always use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Bold neglecting dough chilling: Not chilling the dough can make it too sticky to handle. Allow the dough to chill for at least an hour to achieve the right consistency.
• Bold overmixing the batter: Mixing too long can make cookies tough. Mix until just combined for a softer bite.
• Bold ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can result in burnt or undercooked cookies. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.
• Bold rushing cooling time: Removing cookies too soon from the baking sheet can lead to breakage. Let them cool on the sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once solid.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of cake flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may alter the texture slightly. Cake flour provides a lighter cookie.

How do I make these cookies vegan?

You can replace butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs for a vegan version of Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies.

Can I add fruit fillings?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your filling with jams or fruit purees for added flavor.

What if my icing is too runny?

If your icing is too thin, simply add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

How should I store leftover icing?

Store any leftover icing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Rewhip before using again.

Final Thoughts

These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile! With a gooey cinnamon filling and sweet glaze, they remind you of childhood treats while being easy to customize. Try adding different fillings or toppings to make them your own!