Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies: Soft, Chewy, and Cinnamon-Sweet

Inspired by the classic breakfast pastry, these cookies feature a gooey cinnamon-sugar center and a sweet glaze

Introduction: A Cookie That Tastes Like Childhood

If you grew up eating Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop-Tarts, you know the joy of biting into that warm, sugary filling wrapped in a flaky crust. These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies channel that same magic into a soft, chewy cookie with a cinnamon-sugar swirl and a drizzle of glaze. They’re comforting, nostalgic, and just the right amount of indulgent.

Whether you’re baking for a cozy weekend, a cookie exchange, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these cookies deliver big flavor with a playful twist.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s explore what makes these cookies so irresistible:

Cookie Dough Base:

• Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened)
  Adds richness and helps create a soft texture.
• Brown sugar (1 cup, packed)
  Adds moisture and deep caramel flavor.
• Granulated sugar (½ cup)
  Balances sweetness and helps with structure.
• Eggs (2 large)
  Bind the dough and add richness.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
  Adds warmth and enhances the cinnamon flavor.
• All-purpose flour (2¾ cups)
  Provides structure and chewiness.
• Baking soda (1 tsp)
  Helps cookies rise and spread.
• Salt (½ tsp)
  Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.

Tip: Use room temperature ingredients for best texture.

Cinnamon-Sugar Filling:

• Brown sugar (½ cup)
• Ground cinnamon (1 tbsp)
• Flour (1 tbsp)
• Butter (2 tbsp, melted)

Mix together to form a thick, spreadable filling.

Optional: Add a pinch of salt or vanilla for extra depth.

Glaze:

• Powdered sugar (1 cup)
• Milk or cream (2–3 tbsp)
• Vanilla extract (½ tsp)

Whisk until smooth and drizzle over cooled cookies.

Tip: Adjust milk for desired consistency.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large bowl:

• Cream butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).

Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.

In a separate bowl:

• Whisk flour, baking soda, and salt.

Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture.

Mix until just combined.

Optional: Chill dough for 30 minutes for thicker cookies.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a small bowl:

• Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, and melted butter until combined.

Set aside.

Tip: Filling should be thick but spreadable.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

Scoop cookie dough into balls (about 2 tbsp each).

Flatten slightly and add a small spoonful of cinnamon filling to the center.

Top with another piece of dough and seal edges.

Place on parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart.

Optional: Sprinkle tops with cinnamon sugar before baking.

Step 4: Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, until:

• Edges are golden
• Centers are set but soft

Let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.

Tip: Don’t overbake—cookies will continue to set as they cool.

Step 5: Glaze

Once cookies are cool:

• Whisk glaze ingredients until smooth.

Drizzle over cookies using a spoon or piping bag.

Let glaze set before serving.

Presentation Tip: Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or edible glitter for flair.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

• Bake sales
• Cookie swaps
• Afternoon tea
• Cozy weekends

Pair with:

• Hot coffee
• Chai latte
• Cold milk

Tip: Warm cookies slightly before serving for gooey centers.

Variations to Try

Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:

Pop Tart-Inspired

Add a layer of cinnamon filling between two flattened dough discs for a true “stuffed” effect.

Chocolate Cinnamon

Add mini chocolate chips to the dough or filling.

Nutty Crunch

Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling.

Vegan Version

Use plant-based butter, egg substitute, and dairy-free glaze.

Fruity Twist

Swap cinnamon filling for strawberry jam and glaze with pink icing.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Make-Ahead: Prepare dough and filling up to 2 days in advance.
• Refrigerate: Store baked cookies in airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Freeze dough balls or baked cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.

Tip: Reheat cookies in microwave for 10 seconds for fresh-baked texture.

Nutrition Notes (Per Cookie, ~1 of 24)

• Calories: ~220
• Protein: ~2g
• Carbohydrates: ~28g
• Fat: ~10g
• Sugar: ~18g
• Sodium: ~120mg
• Fiber: ~1g

These cookies are:

• Comfort food approved
• Kid-friendly
• Perfect for gifting
• Great for leftovers

Final Thoughts

These Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies are more than just dessert—they’re a nostalgic hug in cookie form. Whether you’re baking them for a party or sneaking one with your morning coffee, they’re guaranteed to bring smiles.