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Sweet and Chewy Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies to Savor Recipe

4.6 from 58 reviews

These Sweet and Chewy Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies combine the nostalgic flavors of classic pop tarts with a soft, chewy cookie texture. Filled with a cinnamon-spiced brown sugar mixture and topped with a delicate vanilla glaze and optional sprinkles, these cookies are perfect for a comforting treat or an indulgent snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (Consider whole wheat flour for a healthier option.)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder (Helps cookies rise slightly for a fluffy texture.)
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda (Contributes to the cookie’s browning and delightful texture.)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (Enhances sweetness; substitute with sea salt if preferred.)

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened) (Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.)
  • 1 cup brown sugar (packed) (You can opt for light or dark brown sugar.)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar (Dare to try coconut sugar for a crisper texture!)
  • 2 large eggs (Important for binding; substitute with flaxseed meal for a vegan option.)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Pure vanilla works best for flavor.)
  • Milk for brushing (Any milk or plant-based alternative works.)

Filling Ingredients

  • ½ cup brown sugar (for filling) (Provides delightful sweetness.)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (Helps thicken the filling.)
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon (Feel free to adjust to your taste!)

Icing Ingredients

  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing) (Can be flavored with vanilla or stevia for a lighter option.)
  • 23 tablespoons milk (for icing) (Helps achieve desired icing consistency.)
  • Sprinkles (optional) (Fun, colorful decoration.)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Dry Mix: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a stand mixer or large bowl, cream together 1 cup softened unsalted butter, 1 cup packed brown sugar, and ½ cup granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender texture.
  3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in 2 large eggs one at a time to bind the dough, followed by 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract for flavor, mixing until combined.
  4. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing just until incorporated to avoid overworking the dough, which can lead to toughness.
  5. Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two equal disks, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour to firm up, making it easier to roll out.
  6. Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, combine ½ cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Mix well to create a smooth, thick filling mixture and set aside.
  7. Preheat Oven and Roll Dough: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Using a knife or cookie cutter, cut the dough into 3×4 inch rectangles. Repeat with second disk.
  8. Assemble Cookies: Place half of the rectangles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the cinnamon-brown sugar filling onto each. Cover each with a remaining rectangle and seal the edges by pressing with a fork to prevent filling leakage.
  9. Brush and Bake: Lightly brush the tops of the cookies with milk to promote browning and sheen. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and set.
  10. Cool Cookies: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet to firm up, about 10 minutes.
  11. Prepare Icing and Decorate: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons milk until smooth to form a drizzle consistency. Drizzle icing over cooled cookies and add sprinkles if desired for a festive touch.

Notes

  • For a healthier option, substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour.
  • Light or dark brown sugar can be used depending on desired depth of flavor.
  • To make these cookies vegan, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use plant-based butter and milk.
  • Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming and better texture.
  • Chilling the dough is essential for easier handling and prevents spreading during baking.
  • Use a fork to seal edges well to avoid the filling leaking out while baking.
  • Adjust cinnamon to taste for a more or less spiced filling.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature.

Keywords: brown sugar cookies, pop tart cookies, chewy cookies, cinnamon filling, homemade cookies, sweet treats, dessert recipes