Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies

These Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies are a delightful twist on classic sugar cookies. Bursting with the flavor of chopped Strawberry Pop Tarts and topped with colorful sprinkles, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a birthday, or just craving something sweet, these cookies will impress everyone. Their soft and buttery texture combined with the sweetness of strawberry makes them truly irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip these up in no time.
• Flavorful Surprise: Each bite offers a delightful crunch from the Pop Tarts, which adds a unique twist to traditional cookies.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, picnics, or as an everyday snack; they fit perfectly into any occasion.
• Fun for Kids: Decorating with sprinkles is a fun activity that kids will enjoy; they can even help in the kitchen!
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The colorful sprinkles make these cookies visually appealing and perfect for sharing on social media.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together for a light texture.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Baking sheets: Provides even heat distribution while baking cookies for consistent results.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and allows for easy cleanup after baking.

Ingredients

These Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies are made with soft and buttery sugar cookies that are loaded with chopped Strawberry Pop Tarts and colorful sprinkles.

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1½ cups (285g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) pure vanilla extract
• 3 cups (420g) all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Mix-Ins and Topping

• 4 Frosted Strawberry Pop Tarts, chopped
• ¼ cup sprinkles

For the Icing

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 5-7 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
• Sprinkles for garnish

How to Make Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. 1 cup unsalted butter
2. 1½ cups granulated sugar

Beat them together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes using your mixer.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add:
1. 2 large eggs
2. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
1. 3 cups all-purpose flour
2. ½ teaspoon baking soda
3. ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
4. ¼ teaspoon salt

Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in Pop Tarts and Sprinkles

Gently fold in:
1. 4 chopped Frosted Strawberry Pop Tarts
2. ¼ cup sprinkles

Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Scoop onto Baking Sheets

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop portions of dough onto lined baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.

Step 8: Cool and Decorate

Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks. Once cooled, prepare icing by mixing:
1. 2 cups powdered sugar
2. Add enough heavy whipping cream (5-7 tablespoons) to achieve a drizzling consistency.

Drizzle icing over cooled cookies and top with additional sprinkles if desired! Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies!

How to Serve Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies

Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether for a party, family gathering, or just a sweet indulgence at home, these cookies offer versatility in presentation and pairing.

Pairing with Milk

• Classic Option: Enjoy these cookies with a glass of cold milk for a nostalgic experience reminiscent of childhood snacks.
• Flavored Milk: Try pairing them with strawberry milk for an extra burst of flavor that complements the cookies perfectly.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Ice Cream Delight: Create an ice cream sandwich by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies. Vanilla or strawberry ice cream works wonderfully.

Dessert Platter

• Sweet Sharing: Arrange the cookies on a dessert platter alongside other treats like brownies and cupcakes for an appealing dessert spread.

Coffee Companion

• Perfect Pairing: Serve these cookies with coffee or tea. The sweetness of the cookies balances well with the bitterness of coffee.

Kids’ Treat Box

• Fun Snack: Pack these cookies in lunchboxes or snack bags for kids. They make an excellent after-school treat.

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How to Perfect Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies

To ensure your Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature to achieve a smooth dough.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for about 30 minutes before baking helps maintain their shape and enhances texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined when adding flour. This keeps the cookies tender and fluffy.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies

These Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies can be paired with various side dishes that enhance their flavor and make your dessert table more appealing.

1. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies. Consider using strawberries, blueberries, and melons.
2. Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a balanced side that pairs well with these sugary delights.
3. Chocolate Fondue: Create a fun dipping station with melted chocolate where guests can dip their cookies for added indulgence.
4. Cheese Board: A cheese board with soft cheeses can complement the sweetness of the cookies while providing savory elements.
5. Pudding Cups: Individual cups of vanilla or chocolate pudding serve as a creamy contrast to the crunchy textures of the cookies.
6. Nut Mix: A mix of roasted nuts offers crunch and savory flavors that balance out the sweetness of Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies.
7. Mini Cupcakes: Serve mini cupcakes in complementary flavors like vanilla or strawberry to create an enticing dessert ensemble.
8. Homemade Whipped Cream: A side of homemade whipped cream can elevate each bite, making it feel extra special.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies, even small oversights can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold butter can affect the texture of your cookies. Always ensure your butter is at room temperature for the best results.
• Skipping the chill time: Not chilling the dough can result in cookies that spread too much while baking. Allowing the dough to chill helps maintain their shape.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can make your cookies tough. Mix just until combined to keep them soft and tender.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Spoon and level your flour for accuracy.
• Neglecting to check for doneness: Baking time may vary depending on your oven. Check the cookies a minute or two before the recommended time to avoid overbaking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze for about 1-2 hours, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, placing the cookie in for about 30 seconds until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies unique?

These Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies stand out because they combine classic sugar cookie flavors with pieces of real strawberry pop tarts and colorful sprinkles, creating a fun and delicious treat.

Can I customize my Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add different flavors of pop tarts, mix in chocolate chips, or use various types of sprinkles based on your preference.

How do I know when my Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies are done?

The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden and they appear set in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Are Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies suitable for special diets?

These cookies contain butter and eggs, which may not be suitable for vegan or dairy-free diets. However, you could substitute these ingredients with vegan alternatives if needed.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Pop Tart Cookies offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that appeal to both kids and adults alike. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various mix-ins or toppings. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to please everyone!