Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
These delicious Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavor of pop tarts with the soft, chewy texture of homemade cookies. Each cookie is filled with a gooey cinnamon mixture and topped with a luscious cinnamon glaze, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just want a sweet snack, these cookies will surely impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these cookies in no time.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates a warm, comforting taste that feels like home.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or just an afternoon snack—these cookies fit any occasion.
- Great for Storing: These cookies store well, allowing you to enjoy them over several days without losing their delightful texture.
- Fun to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or experiment with different fillings!
Tools and Preparation
To create these amazing Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your baking process and ensure perfect results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Helps achieve a light and fluffy dough by efficiently combining ingredients.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for separating dry and wet ingredients before combining them.
- Baking sheets: Provides a stable surface for baking multiple batches of cookies at once.

Ingredients
These soft Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are packed with a gooey cinnamon filling and topped with a cinnamon glaze. They taste just like the classic pop tart and are easy to make and store.
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 2 eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 3/4 cups cake flour
- 2 Tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
For the Filling
- 5 Tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 Tablespoon cake flour
For the Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
- 2 1/2 Tablespoon milk
How to Make Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
- In a bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar.
- Beat on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes until creamy.
- Add in the eggs and vanilla extract. Beat again for another 1-2 minutes until light and fluffy.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt until well combined.
- Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients in your stand mixer. Mix on medium speed for about 1-2 minutes, scraping down the sides as necessary.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for one hour.
Step 3: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 4: Make the Filling
- In a medium bowl, mix together softened butter, light brown sugar, cinnamon, and cake flour until smooth.
- Using a heaping teaspoon (about 2 teaspoons), scoop out filling mixture into small balls and place them on one of your prepared baking sheets.
Step 5: Form Cookies
- Use a 1/4 cup measuring cup or large cookie scoop to portion out chilled cookie dough.
- Divide each dough ball in half and create a well in one half.
- Place one ball of filling in each well then cover it with the other half of dough. Pinch seams to seal.
Step 6: Bake Cookies
- Arrange cookie dough balls on your prepared sheet about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for about 11-13 minutes until tops are set but edges are lightly golden brown.
- Let cool on baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare Icing & Finish Cookies
- Whisk together all icing ingredients until smooth in consistency.
- Place parchment paper under cooling racks; spoon icing over each cookie allowing it to spread outwards towards edges.
- Let icing set for about 15 minutes before enjoying!
How to Serve Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
These delicious Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, here are some great serving suggestions.
With a Glass of Milk
- Freshly poured milk enhances the sweetness of the cookies and complements their gooey filling.
Warm with Ice Cream
- Serve these cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat that’s hard to resist.
Drizzled with Extra Glaze
- For those who love extra sweetness, drizzle additional cinnamon glaze over the top for added flavor and presentation.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Arrange your cookies alongside fruits and other baked goods for a colorful dessert platter that guests will love.
How to Perfect Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
To ensure your Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the butter and sugars cream together smoothly for a light texture.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough prevents spreading and helps maintain the cookie’s shape during baking.
- Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for consistent results.
- Don’t Overbake: Remove the cookies when they are just set; they will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Experiment with Fillings: Try different fillings like fruit preserves or chocolate chips for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
Pairing side dishes with your Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options to consider.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
- Cheese Plate: Include a variety of cheeses, such as creamy brie or sharp cheddar, which provide savory contrast.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing side that complements the flavors of the cookies.
- Chocolate Fondue: Melted chocolate offers a fun dipping option that adds richness to your dessert spread.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage pairs wonderfully, enhancing the cookie’s flavors while providing warmth.
- Nut Mix: A selection of roasted nuts adds crunch and a savory element that contrasts nicely with sweet cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies can be delightful, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure they turn out perfect every time.
- Bold Ingredients Measurement: Always measure ingredients accurately. Too much or too little flour can change the texture of the cookies.
- Bold Overmixing Dough: After adding the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Bold Skipping Chilling Time: Don’t skip the chilling step! Chilling the dough helps develop flavor and prevents spreading during baking.
- Bold Ignoring Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated correctly. An incorrect temperature can result in uneven baking.
- Bold Not Using Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep them at room temperature for best texture.
Freezing Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
- Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 5 minutes until soft.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie for 10-15 seconds on a microwave-safe plate.
- Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of cake flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may affect the texture. Cake flour gives a softer cookie.
How do I know when my cookies are done?
Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden brown, and the tops appear set.
Can I add chocolate chips to the recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding chocolate chips or nuts to suit your taste.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness.
Final Thoughts
These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different fillings or toppings to suit your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for any occasion!
Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies
Indulge in the delightful world of Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies, where the beloved pop tart flavor meets the soft, chewy goodness of homemade cookies. These treats are filled with a gooey cinnamon mixture and topped with a sweet cinnamon glaze, making them perfect for any occasion—from holiday celebrations to afternoon snacks. With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, these cookies can impress anyone, whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand for the first time. Customize them with your favorite toppings or fillings for an exciting twist on this classic treat!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 2 eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 3/4 cups cake flour
- 2 Tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 5 Tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 Tablespoon cake flour
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
- 2 1/2 Tablespoon milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a stand mixer, cream together unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together cake flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for one hour.
- For the filling, combine softened butter, light brown sugar, cinnamon, and cake flour until smooth.
- Scoop portions of dough and create wells; fill with cinnamon mixture before sealing.
- Bake for 11-13 minutes until lightly golden; cool before icing with a blend of powdered sugar, cinnamon, melted butter, and milk.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (40g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg