Introduction
There’s something incredibly nostalgic about the combination of buttery dough and sweet filling, and these Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies serve up a delightful twist on a classic treat! Imagine biting into a soft, tender cookie that has a rich, cinnamon-sugar filling, all topped with a drizzle of creamy icing and colorful sprinkles. Whether you’re enjoying them with a warm cup of coffee or sharing them at a gathering, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and happy memories. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, making them the perfect baking project for both novice and experienced cooks alike!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup brown sugar cinnamon filling (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for icing)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (for icing)
- Sprinkles (optional, for decoration)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is delightful, light, and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, stirring until everything is well combined and smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, creating a dry mix.
- Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Divide the dough into two equal parts and shape each into a rectangle. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up the dough.
- On a floured surface, roll out one rectangle of dough to about 1/8-inch thickness and use a knife or cookie cutter to cut it into rectangles for the cookie base.
- Place half of the rectangles on the prepared baking sheet. Spread about a teaspoon of brown sugar cinnamon filling on top of each rectangle, spreading it evenly.
- Roll out the second rectangle of dough and cut out matching rectangles to create the top layer for your cookies.
- Carefully place the top rectangles over the filled ones and press the edges gently to seal in all that delicious filling.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn a beautiful, light golden color. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
- For the icing, combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl and mix until smooth. Adjust the consistency as needed by adding more milk or sugar.
- Once the cookies are cool, drizzle the icing over the tops and feel free to sprinkle on some colorful decorations if desired!
Notes or Tips
For those who prefer an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the icing. You can also experiment with different fillings like fruit preserves or chocolate spread for a personalized touch. And don’t worry if your icing isn’t perfect; a little rustic charm adds to the homemade appeal!
Cooking Techniques
Properly creaming your butter and sugars is essential for achieving a light, tender texture. Allowing the dough to chill not only makes it easier to handle but also helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking. Lastly, be sure not to overbake; slightly under-baking them will result in a softer cookie that stays moist and chewy!
FAQ
Can I make these cookies in advance?
You definitely can! These cookies store well in an airtight container for up to a week. You can also freeze them before baking; just thaw and bake when you’re ready for a fresh treat!
What can I substitute for the brown sugar cinnamon filling?
Feel free to get creative! You can use homemade pie filling, Nutella, or even a simple mixture of cinnamon and sugar if you’re in a pinch.
Conclusion
These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are an absolute delight, combining all the comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar in a fun, handheld format. Perfect for an afternoon treat or a special gathering, they are sure to be a hit with friends and family alike. So roll up your sleeves, embrace your inner baker, and enjoy the sweet joy of creating something delicious from scratch!