Frosted Cinnamon Pop Tart Cookies

Oh my goodness, I just made the best cookies ever! They’re frosted cinnamon pop tart cookies. And guess what? They’re so easy!

These cookies taste just like a warm pop tart, but with soft, chewy goodness. The cinnamon filling is sweet and cozy. I couldn’t stop after just one!

They’re perfect for after-school snacks or a little sweet treat. Super simple to make and super fun to eat. Wanna bake a batch with me?

Let’s grab our ingredients and start baking! I’ll show you how easy it is to make these yummy cookies. Let’s go!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nostalgic Flavor: If you loved Pop Tarts growing up, these cookies will bring back all those sweet memories. The flavor is spot-on!
• Simple and Quick: With only 30 minutes of active preparation time, this recipe is quick and easy to whip up.
• Buttery and Soft: A perfect balance of soft and chewy texture with a hint of crunch from the sugar topping.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are ideal for bake sales, gifts, or just a delicious snack with a cup of coffee or tea.
• Fun to Make: The process of cutting and frosting each cookie feels just like assembling a mini Pop Tart, but without the need for fancy pastry skills!

Required Kitchen Tools

To make these cookies, you won’t need any specialized tools—just some basic kitchen equipment and a little bit of time!

• Baking Sheets: Two baking sheets for the cookies to bake on.
• Parchment Paper: To line the baking sheets and prevent sticking.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need one for the dry ingredients and one for the wet ingredients.
• Electric Mixer: This is optional but will make creaming the butter and sugar much easier.
• Cookie Cutters (Optional): A rectangular cutter or a knife to help shape the cookies into pop tart-like rectangles. You can also make them into rounds if you prefer!
• Cooling Rack: To allow the cookies to cool before frosting.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious cinnamon cookies with frosting (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):

For the Cookie Dough:

• All-Purpose Flour: The base for the cookie dough. Make sure to measure it correctly for the best texture.
• Baking Powder: This helps the cookies rise slightly, giving them that perfect soft and chewy interior.
• Ground Cinnamon: The star spice that gives these cookies that signature pop tart flavor.
• Salt: Just a pinch to balance out the sweetness and enhance the other flavors.
• Unsalted Butter: Softened at room temperature to make the creaming process easier and to provide a rich flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: For sweetness and to help with the creaming process.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a deeper, molasses-like sweetness that balances perfectly with the cinnamon.
• Egg: One large egg to bind the dough together and help with structure.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth of flavor and a subtle sweetness.
• Milk: Just a tablespoon or two to bring the dough together and make it workable.

For the Frosting:

• Powdered Sugar: This makes the frosting smooth and sweet. Be sure to sift it before mixing for a lump-free result.
• Heavy Cream: For that smooth and silky texture, use heavy cream (or milk if you want a thinner glaze).
• Vanilla Extract: A hint of vanilla adds flavor to the frosting, just like the frosting on a traditional pop tart.
• Sprinkles (Optional): For decoration, you can add colorful sprinkles on top of the frosting to make them even more fun!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cookie Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking during baking.

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.

In a separate large bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. The butter and sugar should look pale and smooth—this is key for a tender cookie texture.

Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Once this is done, slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in batches, mixing on low speed to avoid flour spilling everywhere. Scrape the sides of the bowl and mix until just combined.

If the dough feels too soft or sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it firms up to a workable consistency. You want it to hold its shape but still be soft.

2. Roll and Cut the Dough

Place the dough onto a lightly floured surface or between two sheets of parchment paper. Roll it out to about 1/8 inch thickness. If you want uniform cookies, you can use a rolling pin guide to ensure the dough is evenly rolled out.

Once rolled, use a rectangular cookie cutter or a knife to cut the dough into rectangular shapes (about the size of a traditional pop tart, 2×3 inches). Re-roll any leftover dough and continue cutting out cookies.

Arrange the cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If you’d like to make them extra special, gently score the tops of the cookies with a fork to mimic the look of a pop tart.

3. Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still soft. Be sure to keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.

Once the cookies are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

4. Prepare the Frosting

While your cookies are cooling, it’s time to make the delicious frosting that will take these Frosted Cinnamon Pop Tart Cookies to the next level.

In a medium bowl, sift the powdered sugar to remove any lumps. This ensures a smooth, glossy finish for your frosting.

Add the heavy cream (or milk if you’re looking for a thinner frosting) and vanilla extract to the powdered sugar. Stir until everything is fully incorporated. You should have a smooth, thick frosting. If the consistency is too thick, add a little more milk or cream, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired spreadability.

Tip: If you want a colorful, fun touch, feel free to divide the frosting into smaller bowls and add a few drops of food coloring to each. This gives you an opportunity to make different colored glazes for a festive and vibrant look!

5. Frost the Cookies

Once the cookies have cooled completely, it’s time to frost them. Using a spoon or an offset spatula, spread a generous layer of frosting onto each cookie. You can also drizzle the frosting over the cookies for a fun, more casual look.

Optional: If you’re making your cookies extra festive, this is the perfect time to sprinkle on some fun toppings like rainbow sprinkles, cinnamon-sugar, or even edible glitter. This adds not only color but also a bit of texture and sweetness.

6. Allow the Frosting to Set

After frosting each cookie, place them on a cooling rack or a plate. Let the frosting set for about 15-20 minutes before handling or serving. This allows the frosting to firm up slightly, so it won’t smudge or melt when you touch it.

7. Enjoy!

Once the frosting has set, your Frosted Cinnamon Pop Tart Cookies are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them with a glass of milk, tea, or coffee for a delightful treat.

Variations for Frosted Cinnamon Pop Tart Cookies

Want to get creative with these cookies? Here are some fun variations and add-ins you can try to make them your own!

• Add Cinnamon-Sugar Topping: Before baking the cookies, sprinkle a little cinnamon-sugar mixture on top of the unbaked dough for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
• Use Different Frosting Flavors: Experiment with different flavored frostings such as chocolate, strawberry, or even maple for a variety of tastes.
• Add Filling: Want to mimic the traditional Pop Tart experience? Add a spoonful of fruit jam, preserves, or even Nutella to the center of each cookie before baking for a pop of flavor inside!
• Use Gluten-Free Flour: If you have a gluten sensitivity, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a similar texture and taste.
• Add a Dash of Nutmeg or Cloves: For a slightly different twist on the classic cinnamon flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves to the dough.

How to Store Frosted Cinnamon Pop Tart Cookies

These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but if you happen to have leftovers, don’t worry! Here’s how to store them:

• At Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll stay soft and chewy with the frosting intact.
• In the Refrigerator: If you want to extend their shelf life a little longer, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container to avoid the cookies drying out or absorbing any odors from the fridge.
• Freezing the Cookies: If you’ve made a large batch or want to save some for later, these cookies freeze well! Simply place the cookies on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them for about 2 hours. Afterward, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and store them for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature.

How to Serve Frosted Cinnamon Pop Tart Cookies

These Frosted Cinnamon Pop Tart Cookies are incredibly versatile and can be served in several fun ways to suit any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack or serving them at a gathering, these cookies are sure to impress!

Serve with a Hot Beverage

Pair these cookies with your favorite hot drink for a cozy, indulgent treat:

• With Coffee or Tea: The warm, cinnamon-spiced flavor of the cookies is perfect with a cup of coffee or tea. Whether it’s a rich black coffee, a creamy latte, or a fragrant herbal tea, these cookies complement any hot beverage.
• With Hot Chocolate: For a truly decadent experience, serve these cookies with a mug of hot chocolate. You can even top the cocoa with whipped cream or marshmallows for an extra special touch.

As a Dessert Platter

These cookies can be a hit at any party, gathering, or family event. Arrange them on a platter alongside other sweet treats to create a dessert spread that’s sure to wow your guests. You can also serve them at a birthday party or celebration, especially if you add some colorful sprinkles to the frosting for a fun pop of color!

In a Lunchbox or Snack

Want to make your lunchbox or snack time a little sweeter? These cookies are perfect for popping into a lunchbox. They’re portable, easy to store, and won’t get squished, making them a great on-the-go snack for kids and adults alike.

As a Gift

Baking and gifting cookies is a tradition that never goes out of style. These Frosted Cinnamon Pop Tart Cookies are the perfect homemade gift for friends, family, and coworkers. You can present them in a cute gift box or tin, tied with a ribbon, for a personalized and thoughtful touch. Whether for the holidays or as a “just because” treat, they are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face.

Frosted Cinnamon Pop Tart Cookies – Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 210 kcal
• Total Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Sodium: 170 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Sugars: 15 g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0.5 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Serving Size: 1 cookie (approximately 50 g)

Common Questions (FAQs)

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the cookie dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Simply wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the dough and cut the cookies as usual. The frosting can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Can I freeze the dough or baked cookies?

Yes, you can freeze both the dough and the baked cookies. To freeze the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough thaw in the fridge overnight, then roll, cut, and bake.

To freeze the baked cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I make these cookies without frosting?

Yes! If you prefer a simpler version of these cookies, feel free to skip the frosting. The cookies themselves are delicious on their own thanks to the cinnamon flavor. You could also dust them with a little powdered sugar or a cinnamon-sugar mixture after baking for a lighter touch.

Can I use a different type of frosting?

Of course! While the classic vanilla frosting is a great choice, you can experiment with different frosting flavors. Chocolate frosting, maple frosting, or even fruit-flavored icing would work wonderfully on these cookies. Just keep in mind that the frosting’s flavor should complement the cinnamon base.

How can I make these cookies vegan?

To make these cookies vegan, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative and the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). For the frosting, use a dairy-free heavy cream and powdered sugar. This way, you can enjoy these cookies without the dairy!

Conclusion

These Frosted Cinnamon Pop Tart Cookies are the perfect blend of nostalgia, sweetness, and spice. The buttery cinnamon base is complemented by a creamy, sweet frosting, making them a treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re looking for a quick afternoon snack, a gift for a loved one, or a new addition to your holiday cookie tray, these cookies are sure to be a hit. They’re simple to prepare, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to bring smiles to everyone who tries them!

So, the next time you’re craving a Pop Tart-inspired dessert, skip the toaster and bake up a batch of these irresistible cookies. They’re the perfect combination of crispy, chewy, and frosted indulgence. Enjoy!