brown sugar pop tarts

Craving the nostalgic taste of brown sugar pop tarts? Skip the store-bought version and create these delectable pastries in your own kitchen.

These homemade treats feature a buttery, flaky crust filled with a rich brown sugar-cinnamon mixture, topped with a sweet glaze that perfectly complements the filling.

Ingredients List

For the Pastry Dough

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 Tbsp powdered sugar (optional)
• 2 tsp kosher salt (or 1 tsp fine salt)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup vegetable shortening, cold and cubed
• 6-8 Tbsp ice cold water

For the Brown Sugar Filling

• 3/4 cup dark brown sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 1/2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 3-4 Tbsp melted unsalted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 Tbsp light corn syrup
• 1-2 Tbsp whole milk
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Required Kitchen Tools

To create these delicious brown sugar pop tarts, you’ll need the following equipment:

1. Food Processor: Essential for creating the perfect pastry dough
2. Rolling Pin: For rolling out the dough to the correct thickness
3. Baking Sheets: At least 2 large sheets for preparation and baking
4. Parchment Paper: For lining baking sheets
5. Measuring Tools: Both dry and liquid measuring tools
6. Pastry Cutter or Ruler: For cutting uniform rectangles (3.5 x 4.75 inches)
7. Pastry Brush: For applying egg wash
8. Whisk: For mixing filling and glaze
9. Fork: For crimping edges and creating vent holes
10. Cooling Rack: For cooling pop tarts after baking

Dough Preparation

Making the Pastry Dough

1. Combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt in a food processor with quick pulses
2. Add cold butter and shortening cubes, pulse until mixture resembles coarse crumbs
3. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until dough comes together
4. Form dough into two disks, wrap in plastic
5. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight

Preparing the Filling

1. Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, and salt in a bowl
2. Stir in melted butter and vanilla extract until well combined
3. Set aside until ready to use

Assembly and Baking

Shaping and Filling

1. Remove one disk from refrigerator, let rest 5-10 minutes
2. Roll dough on floured surface into 1/4-inch thick rectangle
3. Cut into 3.5 x 4.75-inch rectangles
4. Place half the rectangles on parchment-lined baking sheet
5. Spoon 1 tablespoon filling into center of each rectangle
6. Leave 1/2-inch border around edges
7. Brush borders with egg wash
8. Top with remaining rectangles
9. Seal edges firmly with fork tines
10. Prick tops with fork to create vent holes

Baking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
2. Place assembled pop tarts in refrigerator for 15 minutes
3. Brush tops with remaining egg wash
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown
5. Rotate pan halfway through baking
6. Cool completely on wire rack before glazing

Finishing Touches

Preparing the Glaze

1. Whisk powdered sugar, brown sugar, and corn syrup
2. Add milk gradually until desired consistency
3. Stir in cinnamon and vanilla
4. Glaze should be thick but spreadable

Decorating and Storage

Glazing Technique

1. Once pop tarts are completely cool, place them on wire rack
2. Pour glaze over each pop tart
3. Use offset spatula to spread evenly
4. Allow glaze to set for 30-60 minutes
5. Add sprinkles or additional toppings if desired (optional)

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature Storage

• Store in airtight container
• Keeps fresh for 3-4 days
• Layer with parchment paper between pop tarts
• Keep away from direct sunlight and heat

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze unglazed pop tarts for up to 3 months
• Wrap individually in plastic wrap
• Place in freezer-safe container
• Thaw overnight before glazing

Pro Tips and Variations

Troubleshooting

• If dough becomes too warm, return to refrigerator for 15 minutes
• If filling leaks, seal edges more firmly next time
• If glaze is too thick, add milk 1/2 teaspoon at a time
• If glaze is too thin, add more powdered sugar

Flavor Variations

• Add chopped nuts to filling
• Mix in maple syrup for maple-brown sugar flavor
• Include finely diced apples for apple-cinnamon version
• Try different glaze flavors like maple or vanilla

Conclusion

These homemade brown sugar pop tarts offer a delicious upgrade from store-bought versions.

With their buttery crust, rich filling, and sweet glaze, they’re perfect for breakfast, snack time, or whenever you need a comforting treat.

While they require some time and patience to prepare, the result is well worth the effort. Enjoy them fresh or store them for later – either way, they’re sure to become a family favorite.