Introduction
Who can resist the warm, nostalgic charm of cookies? Especially when they are inspired by the beloved pop tart! These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies combine the delightful sweetness of brown sugar and the buttery goodness of a homemade cookie, all punctuated with bits of pop tart goodness. They’re perfect for any occasion — whether it’s a cozy afternoon treat or a sweet surprise for a gathering. Let’s dive into this easy and scrumptious recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup brown sugar pop tart pieces (unfrosted)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for icing)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help your cookies bake evenly and prevent sticking!
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
- Add in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined and even smoother.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want your cookies to be tender!
- Gently fold in the brown sugar pop tart pieces until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough, adding bursts of sweet flavor in every bite.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart for room to spread.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The center may look soft, but that’s just how you want them!
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth, glossy icing.
- Drizzle the icing over the cooled cookies and let it set before serving. This final touch adds a delightful sweetness that ties everything together!
Notes or Tips
For an added twist, feel free to experiment with flavored pop tarts or add some sprinkles to your icing for a festive touch! These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for several days, but trust me, they won’t last long!
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the art of cookie baking involves a few simple techniques! Make sure your butter is well-softened to achieve that light and fluffy texture when creaming with sugar. Also, be gentle when folding in the mix-ins to avoid breaking them up too much. And, of course, keeping an eye on the cookies as they bake will help you achieve that perfect golden edge!
FAQ
Can I use different flavors of pop tarts? Absolutely! Feel free to mix it up with your favorite flavors. Just keep in mind that the overall sweetness may vary.
How do I store the leftover cookies? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week for maximum freshness.
Can I freeze the dough? Yes, you can freeze the dough! Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-lock bag. They can be baked straight from the freezer; just add a minute or so to the baking time.
Conclusion
These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are a delightful fusion of childhood nostalgia and adult indulgence. With their warm, inviting flavor and charming appearance, they’re sure to bring smiles to everyone who tastes them. Bake up a batch today and watch them disappear – they’re simply irresistible!