Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies

Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that brings back childhood memories with each bite. These cookies feature a soft, buttery exterior filled with sweet strawberry jam and topped with colorful sprinkles. Perfect for any occasion from birthdays to casual gatherings, they offer a fun twist on the classic Pop Tart. The unique combination of flavors and textures makes them a standout dessert that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, these cookies can be prepared in just 20 minutes.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of strawberry jam and buttery cookie creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.
• Fun for All Ages: Kids will love helping out, especially when it comes to decorating with sprinkles.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies are perfect for parties, bake sales, or simply as a sweet snack at home.
• Cute Presentation: The colorful sprinkles not only add flavor but also make these cookies visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

To make Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies, having the right tools on hand will simplify the process. Here’s what you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cookie scoop
• Rolling pin
• Fork (for crimping)

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool makes it easy to cream butter and sugar together, ensuring a light and fluffy cookie base.
• Cookie scoop: Using a scoop ensures uniform size for each cookie, leading to even baking.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy, allowing you to focus on enjoying your cookies.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies are soft, buttery cookies filled with sweet strawberry jam and topped with colorful sprinkles, mimicking the nostalgic taste of a classic Pop Tart in cookie form.

For the Cookie Dough

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 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)

For the Filling and Decoration

• ¾ cup strawberry jam or preserves
• Sprinkles (for decoration)

How to Make Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This preparation step is crucial for achieving perfectly baked cookies.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
2. Set aside this dry mixture for later use.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl:
1. Beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).

Step 4: Add Eggs and Extracts

1. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
2. Stir in the vanilla extract and optional almond extract, blending until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet Mixture

Gradually add the dry mixture from Step 2 into the wet ingredients:
1. Mix on low speed until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

For each cookie:
1. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball.
2. Flatten into a 2-inch disc.
3. Create a small well in the center for the filling.

Step 7: Fill with Strawberry Jam

Fill half of your cookie discs:
1. Place about 1 teaspoon of strawberry jam in each well.

Step 8: Top with Another Disc

Cover each jam-filled disc:
1. Top with another disc of dough.
2. Seal by crimping edges together using a fork.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Place cookies in the preheated oven:
1. Bake for about 10–12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
2. Allow cooling on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 10: Decorate (Optional)

For an extra touch:
1. Drizzle icing made from powdered sugar mixed with milk over cooled cookies.
2. Finish by decorating with colorful sprinkles for that fun pop!

How to Serve Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies

Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies are delightful on their own, but they can be even more enjoyable when paired with the right accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing, milk complements the sweetness of the cookies and balances their buttery flavor.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange these cookies alongside other treats like brownies and mini cupcakes for a colorful dessert spread.

Warmed with Ice Cream

• Serve the cookies warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a deliciously melty treat.

With Fresh Berries

• Fresh strawberries or raspberries on the side add a refreshing contrast to the sweet cookies.

Drizzled with Icing

• Enhance each cookie by drizzling homemade icing made from powdered sugar and milk over them just before serving.

How to Perfect Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies

To create the ultimate Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your cookies come out perfectly every time.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.

• Use Quality Jam: Opt for high-quality strawberry jam or preserves for maximum flavor and sweetness in each bite.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough only until combined to maintain a tender texture; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures, as ovens can vary significantly.

• Add Sprinkles Before Baking: Sprinkle colored sprinkles on top of each cookie before baking for added color and fun.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies can enhance your dessert table. Here are some great options you might consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is the perfect complement to these sweet cookies.

2. Chocolate Mousse – Rich chocolate mousse adds an elegant touch and contrasts beautifully with the fruity flavors.

3. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad featuring seasonal berries provides freshness and balance to the sweetness of the cookies.

4. Cheesecake Bites – Mini cheesecake bites offer a rich, creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the crunchy cookies.

5. Caramel Sauce – Serve warm caramel sauce for dipping, giving guests an indulgent option alongside their cookies.

6. Lemonade – A refreshing glass of lemonade cuts through the sweetness and adds a zesty twist to your dessert table.

7. Coffee or Tea – Brewed coffee or tea provides a comforting beverage choice that balances out dessert flavors nicely.

8. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries – These elegant treats mirror the strawberry theme while adding a touch of sophistication.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make your cookies tough. Mix until just combined to keep them soft.
• Not chilling the dough: Skipping this step can lead to overly flat cookies. Chill your dough for at least 30 minutes for better shape.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter and eggs will not blend well, affecting texture. Ensure your butter is softened and eggs are at room temperature.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Baking directly on the sheet can cause sticking. Always line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different; using an oven thermometer helps ensure accuracy. Preheat correctly for even baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Cover cookies in a skillet over low heat, warming them gently for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies:

How do I make strawberry jam-filled cookies?

To make strawberry jam-filled cookies, create small wells in cookie dough discs, fill them with jam, and seal with another disc of dough.

Can I use other types of jam?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with any fruit jam or preserve that you prefer, such as raspberry or apricot.

How long do Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies last?

These cookies can last up to 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature.

What if I don’t have almond extract?

If you don’t have almond extract, you can simply omit it or replace it with an equal amount of vanilla extract for added flavor.

Can I decorate these cookies differently?

Yes! You can customize the decoration by using colored icing or different types of sprinkles based on your preference or occasion.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies offer a delightful twist on a classic treat. Their soft texture and sweet filling make them perfect for any dessert table. Feel free to customize these cookies by experimenting with different jams or icing styles to suit your taste. Enjoy baking!