Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies Recipe
If you’ve ever dreamed of capturing that nostalgic pop tart experience in a cookie form, your wish has been answered with these delightful Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies. Each bite offers a buttery, tender cookie packed with a warm cinnamon and brown sugar filling that perfectly mimics the sugary charm of a pop tart, but with a homemade twist that makes them even more irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon treat or a special gathering, these Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies bring comfort and sweetness together in a way that’s simply unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies lies in their simple yet thoughtful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in shaping the cookie’s dreamy texture, rich flavor, and that perfect pop tart vibe. From the creamy butter that keeps things tender to the warm cinnamon filling that provides cozy sweetness, every ingredient is essential.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: The key to a soft, rich dough that melts in your mouth.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds deep caramel notes and moisture to the dough.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and helps with the perfect cookie texture.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to the cookie’s structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the sweet flavors with a lovely aromatic touch.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure while keeping the cookies tender.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the dough rise just enough for a tender crumb.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the baking powder to achieve the perfect rise and chewiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweet ingredients and enhances flavor complexity.
- 1 cup brown sugar (for filling): Infuses the cinnamon filling with sweet, caramel richness.
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon: Brings warmth and that iconic pop tart flavor.
- 1/4 cup milk: Adds moisture and helps bind the filling ingredients.
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing): Creates a smooth, sweet glaze to finish with flair.
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (for icing consistency): Adjusts the glaze to the perfect drizzle consistency.
- Sprinkles (optional, for decoration): Adds a fun, festive touch reminiscent of classic pop tarts.
How to Make Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
Step 1: Cream the Butters and Sugars
Start by beating the softened butter with the brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and beautifully creamy. This step is the foundation for cookies that will have a melt-in-your-mouth texture, so don’t rush — a good 2 to 3 minutes with your mixer will set you up for success.
Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to maintain that silky dough texture. Follow it up with the vanilla extract for a burst of sweet aroma that will soften the edges of your batter and make everything irresistible.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures your leavening agents and salt are evenly distributed, which is vital for consistent rise and flavor balance in your Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, stirring just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix here — the moment the flour disappears is your cue to stop stirring. Overworking can lead to tough cookies, and we want tender treats.
Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Brown Sugar Filling
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon for the filling. This mixture will slide into the heart of your cookies and deliver that classic pop tart taste.
Step 6: Divide and Roll Out the Dough
Split the dough into two equal portions. Lightly flour your surface and roll each portion out to about 1/4 inch thickness. This thickness helps the cookies bake evenly while giving you enough dough to create nice, substantial layers.
Step 7: Cut Dough into Rectangles
Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, slice the rolled dough into rectangles approximately 3 by 4 inches — the perfect size to hold the filling and give you that classic pop tart look.
Step 8: Assemble the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place one rectangle on the baking sheet, spoon a tablespoon of the cinnamon brown sugar filling in the center, then gently press a second rectangle on top. Seal the edges by pinching or gently pressing with a fork to keep that filling locked inside as it bakes.
Step 9: Bake
Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes or until they turn a lovely light golden brown, signaling they’re perfectly cooked. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 10: Glaze and Decorate
Mix powdered sugar and milk until smooth and drizzle this glaze over cooled cookies. Add sprinkles if you like for that whimsical pop tart feel — it’s all about making these cookies as fun and inviting as possible!
How to Serve Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
Garnishes
To really wow those you share your Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies with, a simple drizzle of glaze topped with colorful sprinkles adds a delightful crunch and playful vibe. You can also dust with a little cinnamon sugar for extra warmth and sparkle.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a cozy cup of tea, a robust coffee, or even a cold glass of milk. For a heartier treat, serve alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance that sweet, cinnamon richness with fresh or creamy notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack these cookies on a rustic wooden board or arrange them neatly on a pretty platter for parties and gatherings. You can even package a few as thoughtful homemade gifts — just tie them up with a ribbon and include a handwritten note about the magic of Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to 4 days — perfect for enjoying a sweet treat throughout the week without any hassle.
Freezing
If you want to save your cookies for later, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Properly stored, they’ll keep well for up to 3 months, so you can always have a stash of Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies ready when cravings strike.
Reheating
For that freshly-baked taste and that soft, warm bite, reheat frozen cookies in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes. This brings back their perfect texture and allows the cinnamon sugar filling to become irresistibly gooey again.
FAQs
Can I use brown sugar substitutes in the filling?
While brown sugar gives a specific molasses flavor that’s hard to replicate, you can experiment with coconut sugar or a mixture of granulated sugar and molasses to get a similar taste. Just keep in mind the texture and final flavor might change slightly.
Do I have to use both baking powder and baking soda?
Yes, both work together to ensure your cookies rise properly while maintaining a chewy texture. Baking soda balances acidity while baking powder provides lift, so omitting one could impact the cookie’s texture.
Can I add other spices to the filling?
Absolutely! Nutmeg, cloves, or allspice can add exciting warmth to the filling. Just start with small amounts to keep the classic Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies flavor front and center.
Is it okay to freeze these cookies unbaked?
You can freeze the assembled but unbaked cookies on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. When you’re ready to bake, add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time — it’s a great way to prepare ahead!
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend meant for baking, you can enjoy a gluten-free version. Just make sure your blend includes xanthan gum or another binder to keep the dough from falling apart.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about homemade Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies — they combine the perfect balance of nostalgic flavors and cozy textures with a homemade heart. I can’t recommend these enough to anyone looking to savor a timeless treat with a fresh twist. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to fall in love bite by bite with your very own batch of Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies!
Print
Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies, which capture the nostalgic flavor of your favorite breakfast treat in a soft, chewy cookie form. With a cinnamon and brown sugar filling hugged by a tender dough, these cookies are iced with a simple powdered sugar glaze and optionally decorated with sprinkles for a fun, festive touch.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Filling
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
Icing
- 1/4 cup milk (for dough)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (for icing consistency)
- Sprinkles (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
- Cream the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step helps incorporate air for a tender cookie.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon; set aside.
- Divide and roll out dough: Split the dough into two equal parts. Roll out one portion on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut dough into rectangles: Cut the rolled dough into 3×4 inch rectangles. Repeat this with the second portion of dough.
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Assemble cookies: Place one rectangle on the baking sheet, spoon about one tablespoon of the cinnamon-sugar filling in the center, then cover with another rectangle. Press the edges gently to seal the filling inside.
- Repeat assembly: Continue assembling the remaining cookies in the same manner.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are just lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare icing and decorate: Whisk together powdered sugar and 1-2 tablespoons of milk until smooth and drizzleable. Drizzle over cooled cookies and optionally decorate with sprinkles. Allow the icing to set before serving.
Notes
- Make sure butter is softened but not melted to get the best creaming results.
- If dough is too sticky to roll, chill it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before rolling.
- Sealing edges well prevents the filling from leaking during baking.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with vegan margarine and milk with a plant-based milk alternative.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: brown sugar cookies, pop tart cookies, cinnamon sugar filling, baked cookies, dessert snack
