Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies
Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies bring a delightful twist to the traditional cookie experience. Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, chewy cookie that encapsulates the sweet, fruity essence of fresh strawberries paired with a crumbly cookie texture, reminiscent of the childhood classic Pop-Tarts. This recipe is not only an homage to a nostalgic favorite but also a fantastic treat that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. These cookies are easy to prepare with step-by-step instructions, making them perfect for a family baking session or a fun weekend project.
Crafting these cookies is worth every moment in the kitchen. Not only will you indulge in a delectable treat, but you’ll also fill your home with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked goods. It’s an excellent way to create lasting memories with loved ones, and who wouldn’t want to share the joy of these delightful Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies recipe is the epitome of simplicity and deliciousness. With easy prep and minimal ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time! Ideal for making with your kids or for surprising guests, these cookies are perfect for any occasion.
They’re also versatile; whether you’re hosting a birthday party, a cozy family gathering, or just treating yourself, these cookies are sure to impress. Their vibrant look and sweet flavor make them a fantastic addition to any dessert table. Plus, with the charm of handmade cookies, you’ll bring that personal touch to your baking.
Ingredients for Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies
To create these scrumptious Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies, you will need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: This provides the rich base for your cookies, making them tender and flavorful.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and contributes to that delightful, soft texture.
- 2 large eggs: These bind the ingredients together and add moisture to the dough.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, sweet flavor that perfectly complements the strawberries.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The essential structure for the cookie, giving it that classic sugar cookie feel.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise and become light and airy.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor.
- 1 cup strawberry jam: The star ingredient that provides that classic Strawberry Pop Tart flavor.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Essential for the sweet glaze that adds a beautiful finish.
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (for glaze): Helps achieve the desired consistency for the glaze.
- Sprinkles (optional): Adds a fun, festive touch to your cookies!
Step-by-Step Directions for Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies
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Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
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Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer.
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Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
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Combine dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies tender.
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Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut the rolled dough into rectangles, resembling Pop-Tarts.
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Assemble the cookies: Place half of the rectangles onto a lined baking sheet and spoon a small amount of strawberry jam onto each. Top with the remaining rectangles, pressing the edges to seal. This will help keep the jam from oozing out while baking.
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Bake the cookies: Place the prepared baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are lightly golden brown around the edges.
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Cool completely: Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Glaze your cookies: To make the glaze, mix the powdered sugar with milk until smooth. Drizzle this lovely glaze over the cooled cookies and add sprinkles if desired for a festive touch.
Tips & Tricks for Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies
- Chill the dough: For easier handling, you can chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling it out. This helps in shaping the cookies more easily.
- Use different jams: While strawberry jam is classic, feel free to experiment with other flavors like raspberry or apricot for a unique twist.
- Glazing variations: Add a splash of almond extract to the glaze for an extra layer of flavor or mix in food coloring to match your party’s theme.
- Extra decoration: Instead of just sprinkles, consider adding edible glitter or colored sugar for an extra pop of color and fun.
- Make it a sandwich: For a more indulgent dessert, consider sandwiching two cookies together with a layer of jam in between!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
When it comes to serving these Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies, the possibilities are endless. Serve them on a vibrant platter, allowing their cheerful colors to shine. Pair these cookies with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of tea or coffee to complement the sweet flavor beautifully.
For a delightful dessert table, mix them with other cookies, brownies, and seasonal fruit tarts. You could even use them as a creative topping for ice cream by crumbling them over a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream, adding a scoop of whipped cream for an extra treat!
Nutritional Information
These Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies, while indulgent, can be enjoyed mindfully. On average, each cookie contains around 120 calories, factoring in the butter, sugar, and jam. The delightful balance of carbohydrates and fats makes them a treat for your taste buds, perfect for parties or as an occasional snack. However, moderation is key for keeping your sweet tooth in check!
Storing Tips & Variations for Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies
To store your Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer shelf life—just layer them carefully with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature.
For healthier swaps, consider using coconut oil instead of butter and a natural sweetener. Variations could include using different flavored jams, or even adding chocolate chips for a fun twist. Get creative and enjoy the process!
Conclusion for Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies
Don’t miss out on the chance to create these Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies in your kitchen today! They are the perfect blend of nostalgia and new, bringing a delightful twist to traditional cookies. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet cravings, these cookies are sure to please. So grab your ingredients, follow the step-by-step directions, and enjoy the delicious journey of baking!
FAQs
1. Can I use any flavor of jam for this recipe?
Yes! While strawberry jam is traditional, feel free to get creative with your favorite flavors or seasonal jams.
2. How can I ensure my cookies stay soft?
Avoid overbaking your cookies; they should look slightly underbaked when you take them out. They will continue to cook as they cool.
3. Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before rolling and baking.
4. What’s the best way to store these cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain fresh for about a week.
5. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Certainly! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.
Enjoy baking and sharing these wonderful Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies!
Print
Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful twist on traditional cookies, these Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies are soft and chewy, filled with sweet strawberry jam and topped with a sweet glaze.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup strawberry jam
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
- Sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract until incorporated.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into rectangles.
- Place half of the rectangles on a lined baking sheet and spoon a small amount of strawberry jam onto each. Top with remaining rectangles and press edges to seal.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden brown.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Mix powdered sugar with milk to make the glaze and drizzle over cooled cookies; add sprinkles if desired.
Notes
Chill the dough for easier handling and try different flavors of jam for a unique twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
