Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter , brown sugar , and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs , one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract .
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour , baking soda , and salt . Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a smooth dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
Pro Tip: Chill the dough for 15–20 minutes if it feels too soft for easier handling.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a small mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon . If desired, stir in melted butter to create a slightly sticky filling.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Roll the cookie dough into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each). Flatten each ball slightly with your palm or the bottom of a glass.
Spoon a small amount of the cinnamon-sugar filling onto half of the flattened dough pieces. Top each with another piece of dough, gently pressing the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges and ensure the filling stays inside during baking.
Tip: If the cookies feel too large, adjust the size based on preference.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes , or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.
Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Glaze
While the cookies cool, prepare the glaze. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar , milk , vanilla extract , and optional pinch of cinnamon until smooth and pourable. Adjust the milk as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve
Once the cookies have cooled completely, drizzle the glaze generously over the tops. Optionally, sprinkle with colored sprinkles or crushed cinnamon candies for added flair.
Let the glaze set slightly before serving. Enjoy these warm, chewy, and cinnamon-spiced cookies straight from the kitchen—or pack them up for a sweet gift!
Customization Ideas
While the classic version of these cookies is irresistible, here are some ideas to switch things up:
- Different Flavors : Swap the cinnamon-sugar filling for Nutella, peanut butter, or fruit jam.
- Spicy Twist : Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger to the filling for warmth.
- Chocolate Kiss : Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate before glazing for extra decadence.
- Nutty Crunch : Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds on top of the glaze while it's still wet.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Brown Sugar Pop-Tart Cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Seal the Edges Well : Press firmly around the edges to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- Don’t Overfill : Use just enough filling to avoid overflow—start small and adjust as needed.
- Cool Completely Before Glazing : Applying glaze to warm cookies can cause it to melt and slide off.
- Store Properly : Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
Conclusion
These Brown Sugar Pop-Tart Cookies bring the best of nostalgia and homemade baking together in one delightful treat. Their chewy texture, spiced filling, and sweet glaze make them impossible not to love.
So gather your ingredients, grab your favorite rolling pin, and let’s bake something truly special. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or shared with friends and family, these cookies are sure to become a cherished part of your dessert repertoire!
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to explore our other sweet and nostalgic recipes. Happy baking, and may your kitchen adventures always end in success! 🍴✨