Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies! Just saying the name brings back all those delightful childhood memories of tearing open a shiny foil package to reveal a sweet, gooey, and crispy treat that made mornings a little more special. You know those days when you want a quick breakfast that feels like dessert? That’s what inspired me to create these cookies! They combine all the deliciousness of a classic strawberry pop tart with the softness of a fresh-baked cookie. These aren’t just any cookies; they’re filled with strawberry jam and topped with icing, making them an absolute hit.
Whenever I make these cookies, I can’t help but feel like a kid again, soaking in the warm and fuzzy feelings they bring. They make a perfect treat for picnics, lunchboxes, or just grabbing a quick snack when I need a little pick-me-up. Now, let me share the details of this delightful recipe with you!
What’s in Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies?
Butter: The base of the cookie dough, giving it that rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture. I always use unsalted butter to control the amount of salt in the recipe.
Granulated sugar: This sweetener is key for that classic cookie sweetness. It helps get that lovely golden-brown color when baked.
Brown sugar: I love using brown sugar in cookies because it adds a hint of caramel flavor and keeps them chewy.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla brings out all the flavors in the dough. Make sure to use pure vanilla extract for the best taste!
All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of our cookie structure. You can substitute a portion with whole wheat flour for a bit of added health, but the texture may change slightly.
Baking soda: This little leavening agent helps our cookies rise just the right amount.
Salt: Just a pinch is all you need! It enhances all the sweet flavors.
Strawberry jam: This is the star of the show! Use your favorite brand or homemade jam for a burst of fruity goodness in every bite.
Powdered sugar: To make the icing that drizzles oh-so-beautifully on top of the cookies.
Milk: A splash helps to thin out the icing to get that perfect drizzle consistency.
Is Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies Good for You?
Let’s chat about the health aspects! While these cookies are definitely a treat, they do have some redeeming qualities.
Butter: Though it’s delicious and gives a lovely flavor, it’s high in saturated fats. Moderation is key, and maybe enjoy one as a special treat rather than a daily snack.
Strawberry jam: This can offer some fruit benefits, like vitamins and antioxidants. If you choose a low-sugar version, you’ll reduce the overall sugar in the cookies too.
Now, let’s get to the fun part!
Ingredients List
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup strawberry jam
– 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
– 2-3 tablespoons milk (for icing)
This recipe makes about 24 cookies, depending on how big you make them!
How to Make Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. I find this helps prevents sticking and makes clean-up a breeze!
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer or a good old wooden spoon, whichever you prefer!
3. Add in the vanilla extract and mix to combine.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Roll the dough into small balls (about a tablespoon each) and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each ball.
6. Use your thumb to make a small indent in the center of each cookie dough ball; this is where the jam will go!
7. Fill each indent with about a teaspoon of strawberry jam.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden.
9. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with milk until smooth to make your icing. Drizzle it over the cooled cookies and let it set for a bit.
Pop-tastic Tips for Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies!
– Feel free to swap out the strawberry jam for other flavors, like raspberry or apricot!
– For a fun twist, add some sprinkles on top of the icing for color and texture.
– These cookies store well in an airtight container, but let’s be honest—they won’t last long!
I hope you give these Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies a try! They’re perfect for sharing with friends or indulging in on your own (no judgment here!). If you do make them, let me know how yours turn out—I’d love to hear all about your baking adventures! Enjoy every sweet bite!