These Homemade Pop Tarts are a delightful twist on the classic breakfast treat! With a golden, flaky crust and a sweet fruit filling, they’re just like the ones you remember, but better because you can control the quality of ingredients and flavors. The pop tarts are easy to make using store-bought pie crust, and they come together quickly, making them perfect for busy mornings or a fun family baking project. You can customize the filling with your favorite fruit jam or preserves and add a touch of sweetness with homemade frosting and sprinkles.
Homemade Pop Tarts
8
servings25
minutes40
minutes300
kcalIngredients
1 package refrigerated pie crust (or homemade pie crust if preferred)
1/2 cup fruit jam or preserves (strawberry, raspberry, or blueberry work well)
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon milk or cream (for frosting)
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Sprinkles (optional, for decoration)
Directions
- Prepare the Pie Crust:
– Roll out the pie crust on a flat surface. If using store-bought pie crusts, allow them to come to room temperature before unrolling. You can use a rolling pin to slightly flatten them further if needed. - Cut the Dough:
– Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the pie dough into rectangles (about 3 x 4 inches). You should be able to cut 8 pieces, 4 for the bottom and 4 for the tops. - Assemble the Pop Tarts:
– Place about 1 1/2 tablespoons of your chosen fruit jam in the center of each bottom rectangle, leaving about a 1/4-inch border around the edges.
– Brush a little beaten egg around the edges of the dough for sealing.
– Place the second rectangle of dough on top of each filled base. Press down the edges with a fork to seal them tightly, making sure no jam escapes during baking. - Create Vent Holes:
– Poke a few holes on top of each pop tart using a fork to allow steam to escape while baking. - Apply the Egg Wash:
– Brush the top of each pop tart with the remaining beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish once baked. - Bake:
– Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the pop tarts on the sheet.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the pop tarts are golden brown. - Cool and Frost:
– Allow the pop tarts to cool for a few minutes before frosting. While cooling, prepare the frosting by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk (or cream), and vanilla extract until smooth.
– Once cooled, spread the frosting over the top of each pop tart and add sprinkles, if desired. - Serve:
– Let the frosting set for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade pop tarts warm or at room temperature!
Notes
- Filling Variations:
Feel free to get creative with the fillings! Try Nutella, peanut butter and jelly, cinnamon sugar, or even a savory filling like ham and cheese. - Crust Variation:
If you’re looking for a flaky, buttery crust, make your own pie crust instead of using store-bought. - Freezing Pop Tarts:
If you want to store them longer, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to restore their crispiness.
Making Homemade Pop Tarts at home is a simple, rewarding process that yields delicious, customizable pastries. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or storing them for later, these homemade treats are sure to become a family favorite. With endless filling possibilities, this recipe is a great way to enjoy a nostalgic snack with a personal touch. Try them out, and you may never want to go back to the store-bought kind again!