Pop Tart Cookie Bars Recipe

Get ready to indulge in the ultimate treat with these delightful Pop Tart Cookie Bars. Imagine the nostalgic joy of a Pop Tart mixed with the comforting crumb of a sugar cookie, all layered with luscious strawberry preserves and topped with a sweet glaze and colorful sprinkles. This recipe transforms a classic childhood favorite into a fun, shareable bar that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a sweet afternoon pick-me-up or a crowd-pleasing dessert, these Pop Tart Cookie Bars will quickly become your go-to delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Pop Tart Cookie Bars come together with simple pantry staples that pack a world of flavor. Each ingredient has its role, from the rich butter that gives the cookie dough tenderness, to the strawberry preserves that add that lovely fruitiness, and the glaze that brings it all together with a sweet finish and a pop of color from the sprinkles.

• Unsalted butter, ½ cup: Room temperature butter ensures smooth creaming with sugar for a tender cookie base.
• Granulated sugar, 1 cup: Sweetens and helps achieve that perfect balance in your cookie dough.
• Large eggs, 2: Adds moisture and binds the dough together beautifully.
• Vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste, 1 teaspoon: Infuses a warm, fragrant depth that elevates the cookie flavor.
• All-purpose flour, 2 ½ cups + 2 tablespoons: The foundation for the perfect texture, be sure to measure carefully for best results.
• Fine sea salt, ½ teaspoon: Enhances all the sweet flavors for a well-rounded taste.
• Baking soda, ½ teaspoon: Gives the cookie dough just the right lift and slight chewiness.
• Strawberry preserves, ⅔ cup: The star of the filling, providing that classic fruity Pop Tart essence.
• Powdered sugar, 1 cup: For the smooth, sweet glaze that tops off the bars.
• Whole milk, 1 ½ to 2 tablespoons: Thins out the glaze to the perfect consistency without making it too runny.
• Rainbow sprinkles: Because what’s a Pop Tart Cookie Bar without a colorful sprinkle celebration on top?

How to Make Pop Tart Cookie Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven

Begin by lining an 8×8 square metal baking pan with parchment paper, allowing the paper to hang over the edges for easy lifting later. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). The parchment lining not only keeps your bars from sticking but also helps with a smooth release after baking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a stand mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together for about three minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and airy. This step is key for a tender texture and that melt-in-your-mouth feel in your cookie bars. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl to mix everything evenly!

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste. Combine just until incorporated to keep the dough silky and smooth. These ingredients bring moisture and a fragrant warmth that’s essential to the Pop Tart Cookie Bars’ deliciousness.

Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in the flour, fine sea salt, and baking soda, stirring until the dough just starts to come together. Be careful not to overmix here — you want a dough that’s soft but holds its form, perfect for pressing into the pan.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Refrigerate the dough for about 20 minutes. This step firms up the dough, making it easier to spread and layer in the baking pan without sticking to your hands or tools.

Step 6: Layer the Cookie Bars

Press half of the chilled cookie dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Carefully lift this layer out of the pan using the parchment and place it on a baking sheet, then pop it in the freezer to firm it up. Replace the parchment in your pan, then press the remaining dough evenly into the pan on top of the parchment.

Step 7: Assemble the Filling and Top Layer

Spread the strawberry preserves evenly over the dough in the pan. Then, take the chilled cookie dough from the freezer and gently peel away the parchment before pressing this layer on top of the jam. Press firmly so the layers stick together, creating that signature Pop Tart Cookie Bar look.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake your assembled bars for 25 to 28 minutes, or until the top turns a gorgeous golden brown. The aroma in your kitchen will be utterly irresistible!

Step 9: Cool and Flip

Allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack, then carefully lift them out of the pan using the parchment edges. Flip them upside down so the bottom becomes the top—this way, the smooth cookie surface will be ready for the glaze.

Step 10: Glaze and Sprinkle

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until silky smooth. Pour this decadent glaze over the top of your bars and immediately sprinkle generously with rainbow sprinkles. Let the glaze set for 1 to 2 hours at room temperature—it’s worth the wait to ensure perfect slices without messy drizzle.

How to Serve Pop Tart Cookie Bars

Garnishes

For an extra playful touch, add more rainbow sprinkles or even tiny edible glitter on top. Fresh strawberry slices alongside each bar also complement the jammy center perfectly and add a burst of fresh fruitiness.

Side Dishes

Serve these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to make every bite indulgently dreamy. They’re also fantastic paired with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat any time of day.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut your Pop Tart Cookie Bars into fun shapes using cookie cutters before glazing to create themed treats for parties or holidays. Alternatively, layer several bars in a pretty box for a gorgeous edible gift that friends and family will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Pop Tart Cookie Bars tightly wrapped in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps the cookie layers soft and the glaze deliciously fresh.

Freezing

You can freeze these bars for up to 2 months by wrapping them individually or in portions with plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature before serving for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Warm up individual bars in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds to bring back that freshly baked softness. Avoid reheating glazed bars in the oven as it may melt the icing and sprinkles.

FAQs

Can I use different jam flavors in the Pop Tart Cookie Bars?

Absolutely! While strawberry is classic, feel free to get creative with grape, blueberry, or raspberry preserves. Each will bring a delicious unique twist.

Do I have to chill the dough before baking?

Yes, chilling helps the dough firm up, making it much easier to spread and ensures the bars hold their shape and bake evenly.

What kind of pan works best for this recipe?

Use a square metal 8×8 baking pan with straight edges for the best bake and texture. Glass or ceramic pans can affect cooking time and texture.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

You can substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but results may vary slightly. Make sure your baking soda and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

How long will the glaze stay fresh?

The glaze is best enjoyed within a day or two of making. After that, it can start to absorb moisture and lose its smooth finish.

Final Thoughts

These Pop Tart Cookie Bars are the perfect marriage of fun nostalgia and homemade comfort in one delicious package. Once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made them sooner. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and dive into making these bars that are as delightful to bake as they are to eat. Your taste buds will thank you!

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