Easy Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies Recipe

Imagine all the sweet nostalgia of a classic Pop Tart wrapped up in a thick, chewy cookie. These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies take everything you love about brown sugar and cinnamon flavors and deliver them in a soft, buttery treat with a gooey center and a drizzled glaze. Perfect for cozy afternoons, cookie exchanges, or just because you need a little extra sweetness in your day.

These cookies are loaded with rich brown sugar goodness both inside and out, offering layers of flavor in every bite. And don’t worry—they’re much easier to make than they look! Even if you’re a beginner baker, you’ll find this recipe approachable and so rewarding.

Why You’ll Love These Brown Sugar Cookies

• Soft and Chewy: Thanks to the cake flour and cornstarch combination, each cookie stays tender.
• Hidden Surprise: A sweet brown sugar-cinnamon filling tucked inside makes every bite exciting.
• Homemade Glaze: Drizzled on top for that signature Pop Tart look and taste.
• Perfect for Sharing: These generously sized cookies are meant for indulging—and sharing!
• Fun to Customize: You can easily adapt the flavors or add extra toppings.

PIN FOR LATER!

Ingredients for Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

For the Cookies:

• Unsalted Butter: Provides rich flavor and a soft texture when creamed properly.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and slight crispness to the edges.
• Light Brown Sugar: Boosts moisture and enhances the cookie’s caramel-like flavor.
• Eggs: Help bind the dough and keep it tender.
• Vanilla Extract: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor.
• Cake Flour: Creates a finer, softer crumb than all-purpose flour.
• Cornstarch: Lightens the dough and keeps the cookies thick.
• Baking Soda & Baking Powder: Provide leavening for a soft, puffy cookie.
• Kosher Salt: Balances the overall sweetness.

For the Brown Sugar Filling:

• Unsalted Butter: Softened for easy mixing.
• Light Brown Sugar: Intensifies the rich, molasses flavor.
• Cinnamon: Provides that classic warm spice.
• Cake Flour: Helps the filling hold together during baking.

For the Brown Sugar Glaze:

• Powdered Sugar: Forms the silky base of the icing.
• Cinnamon: Adds a subtle warmth to the glaze.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness to the glaze.
• Milk: Helps achieve the perfect drizzling consistency.

How to Make Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies

Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together on medium-high speed for 2 to 3 minutes until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until fully combined. Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for one hour to firm up.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the dough chills, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cake flour together in a medium bowl until smooth. Scoop heaping teaspoons of the filling and roll into small balls. Place on a lined baking sheet until ready to use.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.

Scoop out the chilled dough using a ¼-cup measuring cup or large cookie scoop. Break each scoop of dough in half, form a small well in one half, place a filling ball inside, and cover it with the second half of the dough. Pinch the seams to seal and roll gently into a smooth ball.

Place the cookie dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

Bake the cookies for 11–13 minutes, or until the tops are just set and the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

While the cookies cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, cinnamon, melted butter, and milk until smooth. Spoon the glaze over each cookie, letting it naturally spread toward the edges. Let the glaze set for about 15 minutes.

PIN FOR LATER!

Equipment Needed

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop or ¼-cup measuring cup
• Cooling rack

Tips for Success

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: They mix more easily and evenly.
• Chill the Dough: This helps control spreading and keeps the cookies thick.
• Seal the Filling: Make sure the dough is well-sealed around the filling to prevent leaks.
• Don’t Overbake: Take the cookies out when they are just set for a soft, chewy center.
• Cool Before Glazing: Make sure the cookies are fully cooled before adding the glaze or it will melt right off.

Variations to Try

• Add a Drizzle: Top with a thin drizzle of white chocolate or caramel sauce.
• Change the Filling: Use Nutella, peanut butter, or even jam for a fun twist.
• Mini Cookies: Make smaller versions for a bite-sized treat.
• Holiday Twist: Add seasonal spices like nutmeg or ginger around the holidays.
• Extra Cinnamon: Sprinkle a little cinnamon-sugar mixture over the glaze for a crunchy finish.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a glass of cold milk for a classic treat.
• Pair with coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy afternoon snack.
• Arrange on a festive platter for birthdays, showers, or holiday parties.
• Gift them in a decorative tin for friends and family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies deliver a bakery-quality experience right from your own kitchen. With their gooey brown sugar-cinnamon center, buttery cookie exterior, and dreamy glaze, they’re impossible to resist.

Whether you’re a fan of Pop Tarts or just love homemade Brown Sugar Cookies, this fun and flavorful mash-up is sure to become a new favorite. Serve them at your next gathering, gift them during the holidays, or keep them all to yourself (we won’t tell!).

They’re sweet, satisfying, and packed with cozy flavors perfect for any season. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to fall in love—one delicious bite at a time.

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