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
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Cover the dough and chill for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and prevent spreading.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until a crumbly mixture forms.
Step 3: Assemble the Cookies
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop out cookie dough (about 2 tablespoons per cookie) and flatten slightly.
- Place a small amount of the cinnamon-sugar filling in the center of each dough round.
- Top with another flattened piece of dough and seal the edges to enclose the filling.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- 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
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies.
Step 5: Add the Toppings
- Sprinkle crushed brown sugar Pop-Tarts on top of the glazed cookies.
- 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!
