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Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies Recipe

4.7 from 95 reviews

Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies combine a soft, buttery cookie dough filled with a cinnamon-spiced brown sugar filling. These cookies are finished with a sweet cinnamon glaze that mimics the classic pop tart flavor, making them a delightful treat perfect for snacking or dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Cookie Dough

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
  • 2 eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 3/4 cups cake flour
  • 2 Tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Filling

  • 5 Tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
  • 3/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 2 Tablespoons cake flour

Icing

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 3 Tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
  • 2 1/2 Tablespoons milk

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Add the butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes until light and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and eggs, then beat for an additional 1-2 minutes until the mixture is fluffy.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together cake flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt until well combined. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients in the mixer bowl and beat on medium speed for 1-2 minutes, scraping the bowl as needed to fully incorporate the ingredients. Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for one hour to firm up.
  3. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  4. Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, light brown sugar, cinnamon, and cake flour. Stir together until the filling is smooth and thoroughly mixed. Using a heaping teaspoon (about 2 teaspoons), scoop out the filling, roll it into balls, and set aside on a plate.
  5. Assemble Cookies: Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup or large cookie scoop, portion the chilled dough. Break each portion in half and create a small well or indentation in one half. Place one ball of the cinnamon brown sugar filling into the well, then cover it with the other half of the dough. Pinch the seams tightly to seal the filling inside, and gently roll into a smooth ball.
  6. Bake Cookies: Arrange the filled cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 11-13 minutes until the tops are set and the edges begin to turn a light golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
  7. Prepare and Add Icing: While the cookies cool, whisk together powdered sugar, cinnamon, melted and cooled butter, and milk in a small bowl until the icing is smooth and spreadable. Place a piece of parchment paper beneath the cooling rack to catch drips, then spoon the icing over each cooled cookie. Let the icing set for 15 minutes before serving to enjoy the full flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Make sure the butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal dough texture and easier mixing.
  • Chilling the dough is important to prevent excessive spreading while baking.
  • Use cake flour for a tender, soft cookie texture; all-purpose flour can be substituted but may result in a firmer cookie.
  • The cinnamon in the filling and icing is key to replicating that classic pop tart flavor—don’t skip it!
  • If you want a thicker icing, reduce the milk slightly; add more milk for a thinner glaze.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Keywords: Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies, cinnamon cookies, filled cookies, pop tart inspired, soft cookies, cinnamon sugar filling, dessert cookie recipe