Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies Recipe
If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the nostalgic charm of your favorite childhood pop tarts with the buttery, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of sugar cookies, you’re in for a treat! These Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies are exactly that—a delightful mashup where soft, tender sugar cookies cradle a sweet burst of strawberry jam, finished with a sprinkle-topped icing that feels like a celebration in every bite. They’re perfect for sharing with friends or sneaking as a secret indulgence when no one’s looking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the best recipes begin with simple, quality ingredients that each play a vital role. For these Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies, every element from the flour to the sprinkles is essential for achieving that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and a pop of color that makes them so irresistible.
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that creates a tender yet substantial cookie structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and gives a slight chewiness.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: Adds just enough lift for a soft crumb.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: The richness that makes each bite luxuriously tender.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds crunch and sweetness to the cookie exterior.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Contributes to a melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweetness.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together, giving structure and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A warm, floral note that elevates the cookie’s flavor.
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional): Adds a subtle nutty depth to the taste.
- ¾ cup strawberry jam or preserves: The luscious, fruity center that’s the heart and soul of these cookies.
- Sprinkles (for decoration): Fun, colorful, and totally festive for that final touch.
How to Make Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Baking Sheets
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. This step ensures your cookies bake evenly and come off the tray smoothly, preserving their beautiful shape.
Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Combining these first will guarantee an even distribution of leavening agents and salt, which leads to perfectly textured cookies.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
Using a mixer, beat your softened butter with the granulated and powdered sugar until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and almost cloud-like—this usually takes about three to four minutes. This step is crucial for that tender crumb and sweet flavor.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Extracts
Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to make sure everything’s fully incorporated and smooth. Stir in vanilla extract and the almond extract if you’re opting for that extra depth. These extracts enhance and brighten the cookie’s flavor profile wonderfully.
Step 5: Bring Together Wet and Dry Mixtures
Slowly add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients on low speed, just mixing until everything comes together. Avoid overmixing here because we want to keep the cookies tender, not tough.
Step 6: Shape Your Cookies and Form Wells
Scoop out about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Then gently flatten each ball to a two-inch disc. Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, create a small well in the center of each disc—this is where the magic, the strawberry jam, will go.
Step 7: Fill the Centers with Strawberry Jam
Place about one teaspoon of your favorite strawberry jam right into each well on half the cookie discs. Don’t skimp here, as this jam-filled center is what transforms these cookies into Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies.
Step 8: Sandwich the Cookies and Seal Edges
Top each jam-filled well with a plain disc of dough, then press the edges together and crimp them with a fork to seal. This keeps the jam neatly inside as they bake and gives a charming, rustic look.
Step 9: Bake and Cool
Bake your assembled cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges turn lightly golden and irresistible. Let them cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring to a wire rack—this cool-down period helps them set perfectly without breaking.
Step 10: Finish with Icing and Sprinkles
For a final festive flourish, drizzle a quick icing made from powdered sugar and a touch of milk over the cooled cookies, then sprinkle colorful sprinkles on top. This step adds sweetness, texture, and a playful look reminiscent of the classic pop tart frosting.
How to Serve Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies
Garnishes
A simple drizzle of icing and bright sprinkles can make these cookies feel special and celebratory. For grown-up gatherings, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh strawberry slices on the side adds a lovely touch. The visual appeal makes them just as fun to give as they are to eat.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of tea or coffee—perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert. Think about pairing with fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies on a colorful platter decked out with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for a lovely spring or summer vibe. For a party, individual cookies wrapped in cellophane tied with a ribbon make for adorable edible favors or gifts that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Keeping them sealed prevents the cookies from drying out and protects the jam center’s fresh flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookies either before or after baking. For unbaked dough, shape and freeze them on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. For baked cookies, freeze in an airtight container with parchment in between layers to avoid sticking; they’ll keep their shape and flavor wonderfully.
Reheating
Warm your cookies slightly in the microwave for about 10 seconds or in a low oven for 5 minutes to bring them back to their soft, fresh-from-the-oven magic. This little trick revives the strawberry center and makes the butter flavor sing again.
FAQs
Can I use other types of jam instead of strawberry?
Absolutely! The recipe works wonderfully with raspberry, blueberry, or even apricot jam. Each brings its own twist on flavor while keeping that jammy pop you love.
Is almond extract necessary?
Not at all! Almond extract adds a lovely nutty undertone but you can skip it or replace it with an extra half teaspoon of vanilla extract if preferred.
How do I prevent the jam from leaking out while baking?
Make sure to create a well in the cookie dough discs and seal the edges firmly by crimping with a fork. Using slightly thicker jam or preserves can also help reduce leakage.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
If you substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that’s a 1:1 replacement, you can make the cookies gluten-free. Just keep in mind texture might vary slightly depending on your flour blend.
What can I use instead of sprinkles?
If you don’t have sprinkles on hand, try mini chocolate chips, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, or colored sanding sugar for decoration. Each brings their own fun look and taste twist.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so joyful about biting into a Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookie that immediately brings a smile. Whether you’re baking for a party, a cozy afternoon, or just because you deserve a treat, this recipe blends comfort and excitement in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try these and share the happiness they bring with those you love!
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Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully sweet and buttery Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies that combine the flaky texture of pop tarts with the fun of sugar cookies. These homemade treats are filled with luscious strawberry jam and decorated with colorful sprinkles, perfect for a nostalgic snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Filling and Decoration
- ¾ cup strawberry jam or preserves
- Sprinkles (for decoration)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside for use later.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: Using a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This should take about 3 to 4 minutes, ensuring a creamy base for your cookies.
- Add Eggs and Extracts: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in both the vanilla extract and almond extract if using, to enhance the flavor profile.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so mix gently.
- Shape Dough Discs: Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Flatten each ball into a 2-inch disc and use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create a small well in the center of each disc for the filling.
- Add Strawberry Jam: Spoon approximately 1 teaspoon of strawberry jam into the well of half the cookie discs. This will create the delicious filling reminiscent of pop tarts.
- Assemble Cookies: Place a plain dough disc on top of each jam-filled disc, then carefully seal the edges by pinching and crimping with a fork to secure the filling inside.
- Bake the Cookies: Arrange the assembled cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake them for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn light golden brown. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Decorate (Optional): If desired, drizzle the cooled cookies with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk, then add colorful sprinkles for a festive touch and extra sweetness.
Notes
- Do not overmix the dough to maintain a tender, flaky texture.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative.
- The almond extract is optional but adds a lovely nutty note that complements the strawberry jam.
- Ensure cookies are fully cooled before icing to prevent melting the glaze.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0.1g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies, Sugar Cookies, Jam-Filled Cookies, Homemade Sugar Cookies, Strawberry Jam Cookies
