Introduction
Welcome to a delightful journey of baking! Today, we’re diving into the world of homemade cookies with a twist that will surely bring back cherished childhood memories. These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are soft, delicious, and filled with a sweet cinnamon-sugar filling that offers a comforting burst of flavor in every bite. Topped with a smooth icing and a sprinkle of colorful fun, these cookies are perfect for sharing or indulging in all by yourself. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get baking!
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup brown sugar (for filling)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (for icing)
- Sprinkles (for topping, optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, creating a non-stick surface for your delicious cookies.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside to work its magic.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, packed brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth, fluffy, and sumptuous—about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs to the mixture one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Follow this with the vanilla extract, which will add a lovely aroma.
- Gradually mix in the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until everything is just combined. You want a soft, slightly sticky dough.
- In a small bowl, combine the ¾ cup of brown sugar and the ground cinnamon to create the filling. This will add a sweet touch to our delightful cookies.
- Take a small section of the dough and flatten it out in your hands. Place about a teaspoon of the cinnamon-sugar filling in the center.
- Carefully fold the dough over the filling, sealing the edges with a fork to create a lovely pocket of sweetness. Place the filled cookie on the prepared baking sheet.
- Repeat the process with the remaining dough and filling, making sure to space the cookies about 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
- Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they turn lightly golden brown. Your kitchen will soon be filled with an irresistible aroma!
- Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet while you prepare the icing.
- In a medium bowl, mix the powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of milk until you reach a smooth, drizzle-able consistency.
- Drizzle the icing over the cooled cookies, and if you’re feeling festive, sprinkle on some colorful sprinkles to finish them off.
Notes or Tips
- Make sure your butter is properly softened; it will help achieve that fluffy texture when creamed with sugar.
- Feel free to get creative with the filling! Add a little chocolate chips, nuts, or even a dash of vanilla to personalize your cookies.
- To store your cookies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Cooking Techniques
Baking these cookies is a wonderful way to practice combining ingredients in the right order for the best texture. Creaming the butter and sugars properly is key to achieving a light and fluffy result. Additionally, ensuring that the dough is not overmixed will help maintain a tender bite. Enjoy the therapeutic process of rolling and filling the dough—it’s a fantastic way to unwind and embrace your culinary creativity!
FAQ
- Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked cookies. Just shape them, place them on a baking sheet to freeze, and then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. - What can I use instead of brown sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar on hand, you can substitute it with granulated sugar, though the cookies will lack some of the rich flavor. You could try adding a tablespoon of molasses to your granulated sugar for a closer match.
Conclusion
These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are a delightful blend of nostalgia and sweetness, perfect for any occasion—from cozy family gatherings to simple afternoons at home. Each bite is a comforting reminder of how homemade treats can fill our hearts with joy. So, gather your loved ones around and share a plate of these delicious cookies. Happy baking!