These delightful Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. With a gooey cinnamon filling and a sweet cinnamon glaze, they capture the essence of the classic pop tart while being easy to make and store. Whether for a holiday gathering or a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies offer warmth and nostalgia in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: The straightforward steps ensure that even beginner bakers can whip up these cookies with ease.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates a rich, comforting flavor that everyone will love.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for holidays, parties, or just because—these cookies fit any occasion.
- Gooey Filling: The soft center filled with cinnamon goodness adds an extra element of delight.
- Great for Sharing: With 16 servings, these cookies are ideal for sharing with family and friends.
Tools and Preparation
Before you get started on making these scrumptious cookies, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheets
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: This tool helps achieve a light and fluffy cookie dough quickly.
- Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls keeps your wet ingredients from mixing prematurely with the dry ones.
- Baking sheets: Parchment-lined baking sheets ensure easy cookie removal and prevent sticking.
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 Glaze
- 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 Dough
Add the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar to the bowl of a stand mixer or use a hand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes until creamy. Then, add in the vanilla extract and eggs, beating for another 1-2 minutes until light and fluffy.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together all dry ingredients until well combined. Gradually add this mixture to your wet ingredients in the stand mixer. Beat on medium speed until everything is combined, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Cover this dough and chill it in the refrigerator for one hour.
Step 3: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
Step 4: Make the Filling
In another medium bowl, combine all filling ingredients. Stir until smooth. Use about two teaspoons of this filling mixture to create small balls and place them onto your prepared baking sheets.
Step 5: Shape Cookies
Scoop out chilled dough using a 1/4 cup measuring cup or very large cookie scoop. Divide each scoop in half to create two pieces of dough. Form a well in one half of each piece of dough, then place one ball of filling inside it. Press down with the other half to cover it completely; pinch seams to seal.
Step 6: Bake Cookies
Arrange your cookie dough balls on prepared baking sheets, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart. Bake in preheated oven for about 11-13 minutes until tops appear set, and edges are lightly golden brown. Allow cooling on sheets for five minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool fully.
Step 7: Prepare Icing
While cookies cool down, whisk together all icing ingredients until smooth. Place parchment paper under your cooling rack, then spoon icing over each cookie allowing it to spread outwards slightly. Let it set for about 15 minutes before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies!
How to Serve Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate their presentation and flavor by pairing them with various accompaniments. Here are some fun serving suggestions.
With a Glass of Milk
- A classic pairing that enhances the cookie’s sweetness and texture. Whether you choose whole milk or a dairy alternative, the combination is sure to satisfy.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Take two cookies and place a scoop of your favorite ice cream in between. This creates a delicious dessert that’s perfect for warm days.
Drizzled with Chocolate
- Melt some dark or white chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for an elegant touch that adds richness.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve your cookies alongside fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast that balances the sweetness.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each cookie before serving. This adds a light and airy element that complements the chewy texture.
How to Perfect Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
Perfecting these cookies is all about attention to detail and following best practices. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out just right.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature to help create a smooth, well-mixed dough.
- Don’t skip chilling the dough: Chilling helps firm up the dough, making it easier to handle and ensuring your cookies don’t spread too much while baking.
- Measure flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid adding too much flour, which can lead to dry cookies.
- Watch baking time closely: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out.
- Let them cool completely: Allowing cookies to cool completely before icing ensures that the glaze does not melt into the cookie.
Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
Pairing side dishes with your Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies can create a balanced dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream perfectly complements the sweet flavors of the cookies.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds a bright contrast, cutting through the sweetness with its natural acidity.
- Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue bar for dipping your cookies, creating an interactive dessert experience.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over your cookies for extra indulgence.
- Homemade Hot Chocolate: Serve alongside rich homemade hot chocolate for a comforting treat during colder months.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea pairs well, enhancing the cinnamon notes in the cookies while providing a nice balance to their sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies can be fun, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.
- Bold Timing: Rushing the chilling time can lead to dough that spreads too much during baking. Always chill the dough for at least one hour.
- Bold Measuring Ingredients: Not measuring flour accurately can result in dense cookies. Use a kitchen scale or the spoon-and-level method for precise measurements.
- Bold Overmixing: Mixing the dough too much after adding dry ingredients can make the cookies tough. Mix just until combined for a soft texture.
- Bold Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can ruin your cookies. Always preheat the oven and use an oven thermometer if necessary.
- Bold Skipping Cooling Time: Not allowing cookies to cool on the baking sheet can lead to breakage. Let them sit for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.
Freezing Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
- Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- For unbaked dough, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
- Bold Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and warm cookies for 5-10 minutes until heated through.
- Bold Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 15-20 seconds on medium power for a quick warm-up.
- Bold Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 2-3 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies.
Can I use different fillings in Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with various fillings such as fruit preserves or chocolate chips to suit your taste.
How do I know when Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are done?
The edges should be lightly golden brown, and the tops will appear just set. They will continue cooking slightly after being removed from the oven.
What is the best way to store leftover cookies?
Store any leftover Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight or freeze it for later use.
Are these cookies suitable for special occasions?
Definitely! Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies make great treats for holidays, parties, or cozy gatherings with friends and family.
Final Thoughts
These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different fillings and glazes according to your preferences. Try baking them today—your friends and family will love these sweet treats!
Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
Indulge in the delightful world of homemade Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies, where nostalgia meets a modern twist! These soft, chewy cookies are filled with a gooey cinnamon center and topped with a luscious cinnamon glaze. Perfect for any gathering or cozy afternoon snack, they bring warmth and joy to every bite. Easy to prepare and store, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite.
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: About 16 cookies 1x
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 tablespoons cake flour (for filling)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for glaze)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled (for glaze)
- 2 1/2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
Instructions
- In a stand mixer, beat together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy. Add vanilla and eggs; mix until fluffy.
- In a separate bowl, combine dry ingredients (cake flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt). Gradually add to wet mixture until just combined. Chill dough for one hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- For the filling, mix softened butter with brown sugar, cinnamon, and cake flour until smooth.
- Scoop chilled dough into halves; press one half flat, add filling ball, then cover with the other half. Seal edges.
- Bake for 11-13 minutes until lightly golden around edges. Cool on wire racks before icing.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (40g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Experiment with different fillings like fruit preserves or chocolate chips for variety. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal blending. For an extra touch, drizzle chocolate over cooled cookies.
