Homemade Pop Tarts

Introduction

Get ready to indulge in a delightful childhood favorite with a homemade twist – Homemade Pop Tarts! These flaky pastries filled with delicious jams or spreads are a perfect breakfast treat or anytime snack. Originating in the United States, Pop Tarts have been a beloved staple in many households for years.

What sets these Homemade Pop Tarts apart is the ability to customize flavors, control ingredients, and enjoy a fresher, more flavorful version than the store-bought variety. Whether you’re a fan of classic fruit fillings or adventurous with savory options, these Homemade Pop Tarts are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (240g)
• 1 tbsp sugar (12g)
• 1 tsp salt (5g)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes (226g)
• 1/2 cup cold water (120ml)

For the Filling

• 1/2 cup fruit jam or spread of choice (120g)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (8g)

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar (120g)
• 2-3 tbsp milk (30-45ml)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (2.5ml)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and salt for the dough. Add the cold, cubed butter and cut it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add cold water gradually, mixing until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a rectangle, wrap in plastic, and chill for 1 hour.
3. For the filling, mix the fruit jam or spread with cornstarch in a small bowl. Set aside.
4. Roll out each dough rectangle into a 1/8-inch thickness. Cut out 3×5-inch rectangles from each dough portion.
5. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of half of the rectangles. Brush the edges with water, place another dough rectangle on top, and press the edges to seal.
6. Poke holes in the tops of the tarts to vent steam. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
7. For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla in a bowl until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled tarts.
8. Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Serving Size: 6 servings
Yield: 12 pop tarts
Difficulty: Medium

Tips & Variations

• For a golden crust, brush the top of the tarts with beaten egg before baking.
• Experiment with different fillings like Nutella, almond butter, or savory options like cheese and ham.
• Store leftover pop tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven for a crispy texture.

Nutritional Information

Estimated values per serving:
Calories: 320
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 17g
Fiber: 1g

Conclusion

Homemade Pop Tarts are a fun and delicious treat that are sure to bring joy to your breakfast table or snack time. Get creative with flavors, involve the family in the baking process, and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade goodness. Try this recipe today and let your taste buds rejoice!

Pair these Homemade Pop Tarts with a steaming cup of coffee or a tall glass of milk for the perfect snack experience. Share your creations with us and let us know your favorite fillings and glaze combinations!