Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies: The Ultimate Guide

Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

Introduction

Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies combine the nostalgic flavors of classic brown sugar cinnamon Pop-Tarts with the soft, chewy texture of homemade cookies. These cookies have a delightful balance of brown sugar sweetness, cinnamon warmth, and a tender bite. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a bake sale, or just a sweet treat for yourself, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about baking the perfect Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies.

Ingredients

Cookie Dough:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Filling:

  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter

Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Topping:

  • Crushed brown sugar Pop-Tarts
  • Additional cinnamon sugar for sprinkling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
  3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  4. Mix in vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  6. Cover the dough and chill for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and prevent spreading.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  1. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until a crumbly mixture forms.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Scoop out cookie dough (about 2 tablespoons per cookie) and flatten slightly.
  3. Place a small amount of the cinnamon-sugar filling in the center of each dough round.
  4. Top with another flattened piece of dough and seal the edges to enclose the filling.
  5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
  6. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
  2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies.

Step 5: Add the Toppings

  1. Sprinkle crushed brown sugar Pop-Tarts on top of the glazed cookies.
  2. Lightly dust with additional cinnamon sugar for extra flavor.

Variations

1. Maple Glazed Pop Tart Cookies

  • Replace the vanilla extract in the glaze with 1/2 teaspoon maple extract for a richer flavor.

2. Stuffed Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling

  • Mix 4 oz softened cream cheese with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar and use it as an alternative filling.

3. Brown Sugar Oatmeal Pop Tart Cookies

  • Add 1/2 cup rolled oats to the cookie dough for extra texture.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cookies

  • Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
  • Use a cookie scoop to ensure even-sized cookies for uniform baking.
  • Let the cookies cool completely before adding the glaze to avoid melting.
  • Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to a week.

Conclusion

Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are a delightful fusion of two classic treats. With their warm cinnamon flavor, gooey center, and sweet glaze, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save them for later, they bring a nostalgic, homemade charm to any occasion. Try out different variations and make them your own!

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