Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe moment I pulled these Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies from the oven, the sweet aroma of cinnamon wrapped around me like a warm hug, instantly transporting me back to carefree childhood days. Memories flooded in—sitting at the breakfast table with a crispy, gooey Pop-Tart in hand, the sugary glaze glistening in the morning sun. This recipe is my beloved twist on that nostalgic treat, bringing a soft, cake-like texture and an irresistible cinnamon-brown sugar filling right to your kitchen. Not only are these cookies a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth, but they also make for the perfect quick-bake treat to impress your friends and family. So, are you ready to indulge in a homemade experience that marries the comfort of nostalgia with modern baking? Let’s dive in! Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible? Nostalgic Comfort: Every bite of these Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies brings back childhood memories of sweet, crispy treats, now enhanced with a gooey center that melts in your mouth. Quick and Easy: Simplistic and straightforward, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels, allowing you to whip up a batch in no time. Flavorful Fusion: Rich brown sugar and cinnamon meld beautifully, delivering a flavor explosion that’s impossible to resist, especially with that delightful glaze on top! Versatile Indulgence: Perfectly suited for any occasion, from weekend treats to elegant gatherings, these cookies are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Make-Ahead Magic: Prep the dough in advance for last-minute cravings, ensuring that you always have a warm batch of joy ready to share! For more indulgent treats, check out these Cosmic Brownie Cookies or these delightful Velvet Cheesecake Brownies. Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies Ingredients • Get ready to indulge in a delightful treat that fuses nostalgia with homemade goodness. For the Cookie Dough Butter – Provides richness and moisture; use unsalted for better control over sweetness. Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth; feel free to substitute with light brown sugar for a milder flavor. Granulated Sugar – Contributes to the cookie structure and overall sweetness. Eggs – Bind ingredients together and add moisture; ensure they are at room temperature to mix in easily. Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste. Cake Flour – Gives a tender texture; you can substitute with all-purpose flour mixed with cornstarch for an equally soft result. Cinnamon – Infuses the classic Pop-Tart flavor; adjust the quantity based on your personal taste. For the Filling Softened Butter – Blends smoothly with the sugar and cinnamon to create a gooey center. Brown Sugar – Essential for that rich, sweet filling; use a mix of dark and light brown sugars for a deeper taste. Cinnamon – Enhances the filling and gives a warm, comforting flavor; feel free to add a pinch more if you love cinnamon. For the Glaze Powdered Sugar – Forms the basis of the glaze, providing smoothness and sweetness. Milk – Activates the glaze for perfect drizzle consistency; any milk or dairy-free alternative works well. Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s get baking those delightful Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies and take a trip down memory lane! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies Step 1: Cookie Dough Preparation Start by creaming ½ cup of unsalted butter with ½ cup granulated sugar and 1 cup brown sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Next, beat in 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract until well incorporated. Gradually mix in 2 cups of cake flour and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon until just combined. Chill the cookie dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up. Step 2: Filling Preparation While your dough chills, prepare the filling by mixing together ¼ cup softened butter, ¾ cup brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon in a medium bowl. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour until a thick, smooth mixture forms. Use about 2 teaspoons of the filling to roll into small balls, which will give your cookies that gooey center once baked. Set these filling balls aside as you prepare for assembly. Step 3: Assemble Cookies Once the dough is chilled, divide ¼ cup portions of it in half. Lightly flour your surface, then press one half into a disc about ¼ inch thick. Place a filling ball in the center, then cover with the other half of the dough, gently sealing the edges together. Roll the filled dough ball in your hands to ensure it’s smooth and well-formed. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling balls. Step 4: Baking Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Space the assembled Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies on the baking sheet, leaving room for spreading. Bake for 11-13 minutes or until the edges are set and lightly golden. After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Step 5: Glaze Application To create the sweet cinnamon glaze, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of milk until smooth. The glaze should be thick yet pourable. Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle the glaze generously over the top of each cookie using a spoon or a piping bag for precision. Allow the glaze to set for about 15 minutes before serving these delightful Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies. Expert Tips for Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies Chill the Dough: Chilling your dough is crucial for achieving soft and gooey Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies. It helps to firm up the texture and prevents spreading while baking. Use Cake Flour: For a tender bite, stick with cake flour in your recipe. If using all-purpose flour, remember to mix in some cornstarch to replicate that lovely softness. Perfect Filling Balls: Ensure your filling balls are about 2 teaspoons each—too large, and they’ll overwhelm the cookie; too small, and you’ll miss that gooey surprise! Watch the Baking Time: Baking these cookies for just 11-13 minutes is key for optimal texture. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies, so keep an eye on them! Glaze Tips: For a beautiful drizzle, aim for a glaze consistency that is thick yet pourable. Adjust the milk as needed until you achieve the perfect pour. Store Wisely: To keep your Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Enjoy the warmth and comfort they bring! What to Serve with Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies Warm cookies create delightful moments that call for the perfect accompaniments to enhance your experience. Glass of Milk: A classic pairing that balances sweetness while complementing the gooey texture of the cookies. Fresh Berries: Light and refreshing, the tartness of raspberries or strawberries adds an enchanting contrast to the rich flavors. Coffee or Espresso: Perfect for an adult indulgence, the bold notes of coffee bring out the spices in the cookies beautifully. Cinnamon Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy ice cream infused with cinnamon takes your nostalgic treat to the next level of indulgence. Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For those seeking a rich and decadent twist, a warm chocolate dip can amplify the sweetness of your cookies. Cream Cheese Frosting: A light spread of cream cheese frosting adds a tangy dimension that pairs perfectly with cinnamon and brown sugar. Nutty Granola: Crushed nutty granola sprinkled on top creates a delightful crunch that complements the cookie’s soft texture beautifully. Warm Apple Cider: A cozy beverage that fits snugly with the warmth of the cookies, whisking you away to autumnal gatherings. Brown Sugar Bourbon Cocktail: A sweet twist on classic cocktails, this drink enhances the brown sugar notes of your cookies while keeping the mood festive. Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies Variations Feel free to get creative and personalize these cookies with these fun and delicious ideas! Sugar Swap: Use a mix of golden and dark sugars for a deeper flavor profile in your cookies. The combination gives a rich sweetness that tantalizes the taste buds. Choco-licious Upgrade: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the cookie dough for a delightful twist. The melty chocolate pairs beautifully with the cinnamon filling, making each bite even more indulgent. Nutty Surprise: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the cookie dough for extra crunch. Nuts add texture and a savory contrast to the sweet cinnamon flavor. Spiced Up: Increase the cinnamon or add a dash of nutmeg for a spicier filling. This twist brings warmth and holiday vibes that are perfect for cozy gatherings. Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a dairy-free milk for the glaze. Enjoy the same gooey texture with a lighter, plant-based twist! Fruity Filling: Incorporate a layer of fruit jam or apple pie filling for a fruity surprise. The burst of flavor offers a delightful contrast to the rich, cinnamon filling. Glazed Over: For added indulgence, dip half of each cookie in chocolate or white chocolate after glazing. This additional layer elevates the presentation and flavor, turning your cookies into true showstoppers! For more mouthwatering treats, check out these Brownie Ice Cream and get ready for deliciousness! How to Store and Freeze Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies Room Temperature: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft and gooey texture. Fridge: For longer freshness, store cookies in the fridge for up to 1 week. Ensure they are in a well-sealed container to prevent drying out. Freezer: Freeze unglazed cookies by placing them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before glazing. Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, pop them in the microwave for 10–15 seconds after thawing, ensuring a cozy, gooey experience every time! Make Ahead Options These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by chilling it in the refrigerator, which helps enhance flavors. Additionally, the filling can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; simply roll it into small balls and keep them covered. When you’re ready to bake, form the cookies and bake as instructed; they’ll turn out just as delicious as when made fresh. To maintain their quality, be sure to store assembled cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days after baking. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have warm, gooey cookies at your fingertips anytime! Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best ingredients for these cookies? Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, opt for unsalted butter for better control over sweetness. For the richest flavor, use dark brown sugar, or a mix of light and dark for a unique taste. Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing. And always look for high-quality vanilla extract—pure is best! How should I store leftover cookies? Very! Store your Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their delightful softness. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be sure to seal them well to avoid drying out! Can I freeze these cookies for later? Absolutely! To freeze unglazed cookies, arrange them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. They can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature before glazing. If you want that fresh-baked feel, microwave thawed cookies for about 10-15 seconds! What if my cookies spread too much while baking? No worries! If your cookies spread more than desired, it may be due to not chilling the dough long enough or having a warm baking sheet. Always chill your dough for at least an hour. If you’re still facing issues, try adjusting the oven temperature by reducing it by 25°F (about 15°C) to help them hold their shape better. Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe? Good question! This cookie recipe contains common allergens like eggs, dairy, and gluten. If you’re baking for someone with allergies, consider using egg substitutes such as flaxseed meal or applesauce, and look for gluten-free flour alternatives. Just be aware that this might alter the texture slightly. Always check the individual ingredients for specific allergy concerns. Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time? Very much so! You can prepare the dough and keep it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before proceeding with the filling and baking instructions. This makes it super convenient for those sudden sweet cravings! Gooey Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies That Spark Nostalgia Indulge in these Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies with a soft, cake-like texture and a gooey filling that evokes childhood memories. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 1 hour hrCook Time 13 minutes minsChill Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 2 hours hrs 13 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookie Dough½ cup unsalted butter softened1 cup brown sugar light or dark½ cup granulated sugar2 large eggs room temperature1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract2 cups cake flour or all-purpose flour with cornstarch1 tablespoon cinnamon adjust to tasteFor the Filling¼ cup softened butter¾ cup brown sugar mix of dark and light1 tablespoon cinnamon adjust to taste2 tablespoons flourFor the Glaze1 cup powdered sugar2-3 tablespoons milk or dairy-free alternative Equipment Mixing bowlBaking sheetParchment paperWire Rack Method Cookie Dough PreparationCream the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.Beat in the eggs and vanilla until well incorporated.Gradually mix in cake flour and cinnamon until just combined.Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.Filling PreparationIn a medium bowl, mix together softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.Stir in flour until a thick mixture forms.Roll small portions into balls, about 2 teaspoons each, and set aside.Assembling CookiesDivide chilled dough into ¼ cup portions, flatten into discs.Place a filling ball in the center and cover with another disc, sealing edges.Roll the filled dough ball to ensure it's smooth.BakingPreheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.Space cookies on the sheet and bake for 11-13 minutes until edges are golden.Cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.Glaze ApplicationWhisk together powdered sugar and milk until smooth.Drizzle the glaze over cooled cookies and allow to set for about 15 minutes. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 30mgSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg NotesChilling the dough is crucial for soft and gooey cookies. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!