Ah, the joy of baking! As the warm sun streams through my kitchen window, I fondly recall the day I first experimented with Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies. It was a rainy afternoon, and I found myself craving the nostalgic flavors of my childhood, those flaky, pastel packages of joy with that unmistakable strawberry filling. As I mixed the ingredients, the sweet aroma of butter and sugar filled the cozy air, creating a warm hug of comfort. Each bite of these cookies is like a little slice of nostalgia – buttery, soft, and crammed with vibrant strawberry jam, they bring a smile to every face. If you’re a fan of fun twists on classic recipes, I promise you’ll love these delightful cookies just as much as I do!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Perfect for bakers of all skill levels, these cookies only require simple ingredients and a bit of love!
- Quick to Prepare: You can whip them up in under an hour – perfect for those last-minute sweet cravings or surprise guests!
- Fluffy and Flavorful: Each cookie is soft and chewy, bursting with sweet strawberry goodness.
- Adorable and Fun: With the beautiful glaze and playful sprinkles, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!
- Nostalgic Treat: Captures the beloved flavors of childhood, making each bite a delightful trip down memory lane.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Room temperature butter creates a creamy base for the cookies — no cold lumps here!
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetener extraordinaire that brings a beautiful texture and delightful sweetness.
- 1 egg: Works as a binder and adds moisture to keep these cookies tender.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of this warm flavor brings everything together beautifully.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of our cookie dough, helping to create that perfect chewy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: This little leavener gives our cookies a lovely rise – they’ll puff up beautifully!
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a hint of salt enhances all the sweet, buttery flavors.
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam: The star of the show! Choose your favorite brand for a burst of fruity goodness right in the middle.
- Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweet powdered sugar creates the perfect finish.
- 2 tablespoons milk: Just enough to create a smooth glaze that drizzles perfectly over cookies.
- Food coloring: Optional, but a few drops of red or pink adds that pop of color.
- Sprinkles: Because who doesn’t love a little extra fun?
Full recipe card is below.
How to Make It
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). The anticipation of warm cookies wafting through your home always makes my heart skip a beat!
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until fluffy. You’ll know it’s ready when it turns light and fluffy, almost like a cloud of sweetness!
3. Beat in Egg and Vanilla
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the bowl and beat until well combined. The warm, sweet aroma of vanilla mingling with buttery goodness is heavenly!
4. Whisk Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This mixture will help our cookies achieve that perfect balance of chewy and fluffy!
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix – we want these cookies to stay tender and delightful!
6. Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough and cut it into rectangles. This step can be as therapeutic as it is fun! Don’t stress too much about the shape; a little imperfection adds character.
7. Add Strawberry Jam
Place half of the rectangles on a lined baking sheet and add a small spoonful of strawberry jam in the center of each. Just imagine that gorgeous burst of flavor waiting to happen!
8. Top and Seal
Top with the remaining rectangles and seal the edges with a fork. This adds a lovely little design and helps keep the jam in!
9. Bake
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The scent of cookies baking is pure bliss. I often find myself dancing around the kitchen at this stage!
10. Cool and Glaze
Allow cookies to cool before preparing the glaze. Mix powdered sugar with milk and a touch of food coloring until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cookies and top with sprinkles for that extra festive touch!
Pro Tips for Success
- Use room-temperature ingredients for the best mixing experience.
- Don’t overbake – cookies should be just lightly golden at the edges.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before glazing to avoid a melty mess!
- Experiment with the jam thickness; thicker jam will hold its shape better!
- Have fun with your shapes – cut them into fun designs for added whimsy!
Flavor Variations
- Jam Swap: Try using raspberry, blueberry, or even apricot jam for a new flavor twist!
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for warm undertones.
- Seasonal Hits: During the holidays, add crushed peppermint or festive colored sprinkles to the glaze.
Serving Suggestions
These charming cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of hot cocoa, milk, or even a refreshing glass of lemonade. For a cute presentation, stack them on a beautiful platter, and don’t forget those extra sprinkles for a pop of color!
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months! Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Baked cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Leftovers
If you find yourself with a few cookies left over (though that’s rare in my house!), crumble them into a delicious strawberry shortcake or mix them into ice cream for a delightful treat.
Freezing
Yes, these cookies can be frozen! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy!
Reheating
For the best reheating method, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. This will bring back that freshly-baked coziness.
FAQs
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While butter gives the best flavor and texture, margarine can be used in a pinch.
Can I skip the glaze?
Absolutely! These cookies are delicious on their own, or you can dust them with powdered sugar if you prefer.
How thick should I roll the dough?
Aim for about 1/4 inch thickness for the best balance of chewiness and flair.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and you’ll be golden!
Final Thoughts
As I wrap up this sugary adventure, I hope you’re as excited as I am to bake these delightful Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies! They’re the perfect blend of nostalgia and sweetness, bringing smiles with every bite. So gather your ingredients, turn up your favorite tunes, and let your kitchen fill with love and laughter. Happy baking, friends! 🍓❤️
Enjoy every bite,
Chef Caroline from TasteItRecipes.com
Strawberry Pop Tart Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
Cookie Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Room temperature butter creates a creamy base for the cookies — no cold lumps here!
- 1 cup granulated sugar Provides sweetness and texture.
- 1 large egg Acts as a binder and adds moisture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds warm flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour Base of the cookie dough.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder Gives cookies a lovely rise.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt Enhances sweetness.
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam The star of the show!
Glaze Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar Creates the perfect glaze.
- 2 tablespoons milk For smoothing the glaze.
- Food coloring Optional for added color.
- Sprinkles For decoration.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the bowl and beat until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough and cut it into rectangles.
- Place half of the rectangles on a lined baking sheet and add a small spoonful of strawberry jam in the center of each.
- Top with the remaining rectangles and seal the edges with a fork.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool before preparing the glaze. Mix powdered sugar with milk and food coloring until smooth.
- Drizzle over the cooled cookies and top with sprinkles.