Description
Delight in these homemade Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies featuring a flaky, buttery crust filled with a rich brown sugar cinnamon filling. These cookies are baked to golden perfection, then optionally drizzled with a sweet vanilla glaze and colorful sprinkles for a nostalgic treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon milk (or more if needed)
Brown Sugar Cinnamon Filling
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Glaze and Decoration (optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Sprinkles (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
- Prepare the cookie dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until well combined. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. If the dough is too dry, add milk a tablespoon at a time until it achieves a smooth, slightly stiff consistency. Divide the dough into two balls, wrap in plastic, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Make the brown sugar cinnamon filling: In a small bowl, combine the packed brown sugar, ground cinnamon, softened butter, and flour. Stir until the mixture forms a thick, paste-like filling. Set aside.
- Shape and assemble the cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out one chilled dough ball on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness. Cut into rectangles or desired shapes such as castle towers. Place a spoonful of the cinnamon filling in the center of half the cutouts. Top with the remaining cutouts and pinch the edges to seal, using a fork to crimp edges decoratively.
- Bake the cookies: Arrange the assembled cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, until edges are golden and centers are set. Allow cookies to cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Glaze and decorate: For an optional sweet finish, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies and decorate with sprinkles as desired.
Notes
- Make sure the butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
- Chilling the dough is crucial to prevent spreading and helps achieve the perfect cookie texture.
- You can customize the shape of the cookies for themed parties or holidays.
- The glaze is optional but adds a lovely sweetness and decorative flair.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with a vegan butter and use plant-based milk.
