These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are a fun and nostalgic twist on the classic toaster pastry, reimagined as soft, chewy cookies. With a buttery brown sugar cookie base, a creamy vanilla filling, and a drizzle of sweet glaze, they’re like biting into a homemade Pop-Tart in cookie form!
Makes: 24 cookies (12 sandwich cookies)
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter , softened
- 1 cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup marshmallow fluff (or homemade marshmallow creme)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Sprinkles (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
- Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes .
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a small bowl, stir together the marshmallow fluff, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Step 3: Shape and Bake the Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Use a round cookie cutter (about 2-3 inches in diameter) to cut out circles of dough. Re-roll scraps as needed.
- Place half of the circles on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. These will be the bottom halves of the cookies.
- Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the filling onto the center of each circle on the baking sheet. Leave a small border around the edges.
- Cut out additional circles for the top halves of the cookies. Carefully place a top circle over each filled bottom circle and press the edges gently with a fork to seal.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes , or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges. Let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, if needed to reach a drizzling consistency.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies using a spoon or piping bag. Add sprinkles on top for a festive touch, if desired.
Step 5: Serve and Store
- Allow the glaze to set for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days , or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week .
Tips for Success:
- Use homemade marshmallow fluff: If you prefer, make your own marshmallow creme by whipping egg whites, sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Customize flavors: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a spiced twist, or swap the vanilla extract for almond extract in the filling.
- Make ahead: Assemble and bake the cookies in advance, then glaze them just before serving for a fresh finish.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, makes 24):
- Calories: ~180
- Protein: ~2g
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
- Fat: ~8g
Enjoy these Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies as a playful, homemade treat that combines the best of cookies and Pop-Tarts. They’re soft, sweet, and full of nostalgia—perfect for kids and adults alike!