Introduction to Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
What are Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies?
If you're a fan of sweet treats that take you back to childhood, you're in for a delightful experience with these brown sugar pop tart cookies. Imagine a soft, chewy cookie filled with a warm, gooey cinnamon filling that mirrors the classic pop tart flavor we all know and love. These cookies not only elevate the iconic snack but also bring that nostalgic crunch to a whole new level with a delectable cinnamon glaze on top.
Perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!), these cookies are incredibly easy to make and store. They feature a simple dough made with room-temperature butter and light brown sugar, which adds that rich sweetness we crave. The filling is a comforting mix of brown sugar and cinnamon, giving you that familiar taste in every bite.
Whether you whip these up for a weekend treat, a cozy gathering with friends, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, brown sugar pop tart cookies quickly become a go-to recipe. Curious about how to make them? Stick around to explore the full recipe, including tips for perfecting this scrumptious dessert!
Ingredients for Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
Baking brown sugar pop tart cookies at home provides not just a delightful treat but also an engaging experience! Here’s a rundown of the key ingredients you’ll need for these scrumptious cookies, guaranteed to transport you back to your childhood with their nostalgic flavors.
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature for the best texture)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (this adds a nice sweetness)
- 1 cup light brown sugar (packed for that rich, caramel flavor)
- 2 eggs (room temperature helps with mixing)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for a lovely aromatic touch)
- 3 ¾ cups cake flour (creamy and soft texture)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (this keeps the cookies tender)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda (for the perfect lift)
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder (ensuring they’re fluffy)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (to balance the sweetness)
For the Brown Sugar Filling
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- ¾ cup light brown sugar (the star of the filling)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (adds delicious warmth)
- 2 tablespoons cake flour (to help thicken the mixture)
For the Brown Sugar Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for sweetness and smoothness)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (because you can never have too much!)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
- 2 ½ tablespoons milk (to achieve that perfect drizzle)
With these ingredients in hand, you’re just a few steps away from enjoying your homemade brown sugar pop tart cookies! If you’re curious about storage or variations, read on to discover more delicious tips.
Step-by-Step Preparation of Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
Creating the perfect batch of brown sugar pop tart cookies is not only a fun project but also a fantastic way to indulge your sweet tooth. Let’s walk through each step of this delicious journey together!
Gather Your Ingredients
First things first, let's make sure you have everything you need on hand. Gather the following ingredients for both the cookie dough and the brown sugar filling:
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For the Cookies:
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1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
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½ cup granulated sugar
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1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
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2 large eggs (room temperature)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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3 ¾ cups cake flour
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2 tablespoons cornstarch
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
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1 teaspoon kosher salt
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For the Brown Sugar Filling:
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5 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
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¾ cup light brown sugar (packed)
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1 teaspoon cinnamon
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2 tablespoons cake flour
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For the Brown Sugar Glaze:
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1 cup powdered sugar
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½ teaspoon cinnamon
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
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2 ½ tablespoons milk
Now that you’re all set, let’s move on!
Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), beat together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar for about 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. Add in the vanilla and eggs, mixing for another 1-2 minutes. In a separate bowl, whisk the dry ingredients—cake flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt. Gradually mix it into your wet ingredients, ensuring everything is combined perfectly. Once done, cover the dough and let it chill in the refrigerator for about an hour. Chilling is crucial—it helps your cookies maintain their shape and prevents them from spreading too much while baking!
Make the Brown Sugar Filling
As your dough chills, it’s time to whip up the filling! In a medium bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cake flour until you have a smooth, creamy texture. This filling will give your cookies that nostalgic pop tart flavor—trust me, it’s worth it!
Assemble the Cookies
Once the dough has chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. To assemble, scoop out about a quarter cup of dough and break it in half. Create a well in one half and place a small ball of filling in the center. Then, cover it with the other half of the dough, pinching the edges to seal. Roll it into a ball and place it on the baking sheet. Repeat this process until your baking sheets are filled, ensuring there’s space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
Bake and Cool the Cookies
Bake your cookies for 11-13 minutes until the tops are just set and the edges take on a light golden brown hue. Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Meanwhile, you can prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, cinnamon, melted butter, and milk. Once your cookies are cool, drizzle the glaze over each cookie and allow it to set.
Enjoy your homemade brown sugar pop tart cookies warm or at room temperature! They're perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!
Variations on Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
Chocolate Chip Filling
For a delightful twist, swap out the traditional filling with a rich chocolate chip filling. Just mix miniature chocolate chips into the dough or create a chocolate ganache center by melting chocolate with a splash of cream. This variation transforms your brown sugar pop tart cookies into little indulgent treats that chocolate lovers won't be able to resist. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a gooey chocolate surprise?
Fruity Pop Tart Cookies
If you’re in the mood for something fruity, consider using fruit preserves or jam as your filling. Raspberry or strawberry preserve creates a fresh, tart contrast to the sweet cookie, reminiscent of classic fruit pop tarts. Simply spoon a small amount of your favorite preserve into the cookie, seal it up, and enjoy this bright, summery twist on your brown sugar pop tart cookies.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
When making these delightful brown sugar pop tart cookies, a few handy tips will ensure your baking experience is successful and enjoyable:
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Butter Temperature Matters. Ensure your butter is at room temperature; it should be cool to the touch. Warm butter is often the culprit behind flat cookies. Ideally, let it sit out for just 1-2 hours before starting.
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Chill for Best Results. After mixing your dough, chilling it for at least an hour helps maintain structure while baking. If you chill it longer, let it warm slightly at room temperature for easier handling.
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Smart Storage. Store your cookies in an airtight container for up to three days at room temperature or keep them in the fridge for a week. To enjoy them later, freeze the baked cookies (without icing) in a freezer bag for up to three months.
For more great baking tips, check out The Kitchn for in-depth guides and advice!
Serving Suggestions for Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
When it comes to enjoying your brown sugar pop tart cookies, the possibilities are endless! Here are some delightful ways to elevate your cookie experience:
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Pair with Coffee or Tea: Nothing beats a warm cookie and a hot drink. Try matching these cookies with a cappuccino or a soothing herbal tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
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Ice Cream Sandwiches: Make a special dessert by sandwiching your favorite ice cream between two cookies. Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream works beautifully here.
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Breakfast Treat: Enjoy these cookies as a sweet breakfast option. They provide a break from the ordinary and can be a quick grab-and-go snack.
Feel free to get creative! You could even drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce for added indulgence. What will you try first?
Time Breakdown for Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
Getting ready to whip up some delightful brown sugar pop tart cookies? Here’s a helpful time breakdown to keep you on track:
Preparation Time
The preparation will take approximately 20 minutes, where you’ll gather all your ingredients and mix the dough.
Cooking Time
Once your dough is ready, baking your cookies will take around 10 minutes. Just keep an eye on them for that perfect golden-brown finish!
Total Time
In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including a chilling period to ensure those cookies bake up soft and delicious. So, grab your apron and let’s get baking!
Want to dive deeper into cookie perfection? Check out this baking tip guide to improve your skills!
Nutritional Facts for Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
Calories per cookie
Each brown sugar pop tart cookie contains approximately 420 calories. This makes them a delightful treat, perfect for an indulgent afternoon snack or dessert.
Protein content
These cookies pack some fun nutrition too! Each cookie offers about 5 grams of protein. So while you’re satisfying your sweet tooth, you’re also giving your body a bit of a boost!
Sugars and fats
You should note that these cookies have about 37 grams of sugar and 18 grams of fat, which mainly comes from the butter used in the recipe. The sweet, gooey center might make you say “yum,” but it’s good to indulge mindfully! For a more balanced diet, enjoy these cookies in moderation and pair them with a protein-rich drink or low-sugar snack.
For more insight on nutrition, the USDA Database is a great resource for looking up various food items, while Healthline offers tips on balancing treats within a healthy lifestyle.
FAQs about Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
Can I use different sugars?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for light brown sugar and granulated sugar to achieve that sweet, chewy texture, feel free to experiment with other sugars. Dark brown sugar will lend a richer flavor, while coconut sugar can provide a subtle caramel taste. Just remember that the moisture content may vary, which can affect the final consistency of your brown sugar pop tart cookies.
How do I store leftover cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you're looking to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for about a week. Just ensure they’re fully cooled before sealing them up!
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze both the cookies and the cookie dough! For baked brown sugar pop tart cookies, place them without icing on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months. For the dough, scoop and freeze it before baking. When you’re ready, bake directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time. Check out this freezing guide for more tips!
Conclusion on Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
In summary, these brown sugar pop tart cookies are not just a nostalgic treat; they're also simple to prepare and store. Whether you enjoy them as an afternoon snack or a dessert, their gooey cinnamon filling and delightful glaze are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Get ready to indulge!
Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
Equipment
- Stand Mixer
- baking sheets
- parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
Ingredients
Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar packed
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ¾ cups cake flour
- 2 Tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Brown Sugar Filling
- 5 Tablespoons unsalted butter softened
- ¾ cup light brown sugar packed
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 Tablespoon cake flour
Brown Sugar Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter melted and cooled
- 2 ½ Tablespoon milk
Instructions
Preparation
- Add the butter, sugar, and brown sugar to the mixer. Beat on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes. Add the vanilla and eggs, beat until light and fluffy.
- Whisk the dry ingredients in a separate bowl, add to the wet ingredients, and beat until combined, about 1-2 minutes.
- Cover and chill the dough for one hour.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix the filling ingredients in a medium bowl until smooth, scoop and roll into balls.
- Scoop chilled dough, create a well, place filling ball inside, pinch seams, and roll into a ball.
- Arrange on baking sheets and bake for 11-13 minutes.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes and transfer to a wire rack.
- Make the icing by whisking all icing ingredients until smooth, spoon over cookies, and allow to set for 15 minutes.
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