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’re soft, gooey, and packed with a delightful cinnamon filling that reminds you of those iconic pastries. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with family and friends, this recipe is not only easy to whip up but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

What makes these cookies extra special is their warm, comforting flavor. They’re great for sharing during the holidays or enjoying on a cozy afternoon with a cup of tea. Trust me, once you try these Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and ingredients, these cookies come together quickly, perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love helping out in the kitchen and, of course, devouring the final product!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake them when you’re ready for fresh cookies.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon gives these cookies an irresistible taste that everyone will adore.
• Fun to Decorate: The icing adds a charming touch that makes these cookies festive for any occasion!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to get started. These are pantry staples that you likely already have at home!

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

One of the best things about these cookies is how flexible they are! Feel free to get creative with flavors and toppings.

• Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in some mini chocolate chips into the cookie dough for an extra indulgent treat.
• Try Different Fillings: Substitute the cinnamon filling with your favorite jam or fruit preserves for a fruity twist.
• Make It Festive: Add colorful sprinkles to the icing for birthdays or holidays to make them even more cheerful!
• Swap Flours: If you’re looking to make gluten-free cookies, try using a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular cake flour.

How to Make Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

Step 1: Cream Together Butter and Sugars

Start by adding the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar into your mixing bowl. Beat on medium-high speed for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it helps create air pockets in your dough, leading to softer cookies!

Step 2: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add in your eggs and vanilla extract. Beat everything together for another minute or two until well combined. This mixture should be smooth and creamy—this will contribute to that delicious texture we’re aiming for!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients—cake flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mixing them separately ensures an even distribution throughout your dough. Gradually add this mixture into your wet ingredients while mixing on medium speed until just combined.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Once everything is combined, cover your dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for about an hour. Chilling helps firm up the dough so it’s easier to handle later on.

Step 5: Prepare Your Filling

While waiting for the dough to chill, combine all filling ingredients in a medium bowl. Stir until smooth. This will create that gooey center we all love!

Step 6: Shape Your Cookies

Once your dough has chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Use a large cookie scoop or measuring cup to scoop out portions of dough. Flatten one piece slightly to create a well in the center where you’ll place a ball of filling. Top with another piece of dough and pinch the seams tightly—this seals in all that yummy goodness!

Step 7: Bake Them Up

Arrange your shaped cookie balls on prepared baking sheets about two inches apart. Bake them for 11-13 minutes until they are just set but still soft in the middle. Let them cool slightly before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 8: Ice Your Cookies

While those adorable cookies cool down completely, whisk together your icing ingredients until smooth. Once cooled, drizzle this sweet glaze over each cookie—watching it spread beautifully makes it all worth it! Let them set for about 15 minutes before diving in.

And there you have it—your very own batch of delightful Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

Baking should be a joyful experience, so here are some tips to ensure your Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies come out perfectly every time!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Having your butter and eggs at room temperature helps create a smoother batter, leading to cookies that are tender and fluffy.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least an hour allows the flavors to meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking. This ensures a nice, thick cookie!

• Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon your cake flour into the measuring cup instead of scooping it directly. This prevents packing and guarantees you don’t end up with dry cookies.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should be just set in the middle. They will continue to cook slightly as they cool on the baking sheet.

• Experiment with Fillings: While this recipe features a gooey cinnamon filling, feel free to get creative! Nut butters or fruit preserves can add a delightful twist to your cookies.

How to Serve Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

These delicious cookies make for a delightful treat any time of day! Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them with your morning coffee, here are some ideas on how to present these sweet delights.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and enhances the sweetness without overwhelming the cinnamon flavor.
• Cinnamon Sprinkles: A light dusting of cinnamon over the glaze not only looks beautiful but also complements the cookie’s flavor profile perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the cookies, making it an ideal side dish.
• Coffee or Tea: Pair these cookies with a warm beverage such as coffee or herbal tea for a cozy afternoon treat that’s sure to please.
• Vanilla Non-Dairy Ice Cream: For an indulgent dessert, serve these cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla non-dairy ice cream. The contrast of warm and cold is simply divine!
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a wholesome side that offers a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies.

Enjoy making and sharing your Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies! Each bite is bound to bring smiles and warmth to everyone who tries them.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch and enjoy them throughout the week, making your days just a little sweeter. Here’s how to store them properly so they stay delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, place a piece of bread in the container to help keep them soft.
• Avoid refrigerating, as it can dry them out.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze for about an hour.
• Transfer frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes until they’re just heated through.
• For an extra treat, drizzle with icing after reheating!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these scrumptious cookies.

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

Yes! Dark brown sugar will add a richer flavor and deeper color to your cookies. It may also enhance the gooeyness of the filling.

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

Your cookies are done when the tops are just set and the edges are lightly golden brown. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Can I make Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute cake flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best results.

How long do Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies! They’re not only easy to prepare but also bring back the nostalgic flavors of childhood treats. Enjoy sharing them with friends and family or savoring them all by yourself! Happy baking!