Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 3/4 cups
- Unsalted butter (softened): 1 cup
- Granulated sugar: 3/4 cup
- Large egg: 1
- vanilla powder: 1 teaspoon
- Strawberry or Raspberry jam: 1/2 cup
- Confectioners' sugar (for icing): 1 1/2 cups
- Milk or heavy cream (for icing): 2-3 tablespoons
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and alcohol-free vanilla extract. Gradually incorporate the flour until a cohesive dough forms. Wrap the dough tightly and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Step 2: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Divide the dough in half and roll out one half on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into equal rectangles (approximately 2×3 inches). Repeat with the remaining dough.
- Step 3: Place all the rectangles on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are just barely golden. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Step 4: Once cooled, assemble the "Pop Tarts." Spread approximately 1 teaspoon of jam onto the center of half the cookie rectangles, leaving a clean border. Place a second cookie rectangle on top and lightly crimp the edges together using the tines of a fork to seal the filling inside.
- Step 5: Prepare the icing by whisking the confectioners' sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of milk until smooth and thick. Spread or drizzle the icing generously over the assembled cookies. Allow the icing to set completely before serving (optional: add colorful sprinkles immediately after icing).
Notes
- Store fully cooled, iced, and set cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, separating the layers with parchment paper to protect the delicate frosting.
- If you enjoy a warm center like a classic toaster pastry, microwave an assembled cookie for just 5 to 8 seconds, being careful not to overheat, as the icing may begin to melt quickly.
- Serve these fun treats with a cold glass of milk, or elevate the presentation by dusting the platter with a light shower of extra freeze-dried berry powder matching your chosen jam flavor.
- To ensure your jam filling stays perfectly sealed, lightly brush the inner border of the bottom cookie with a touch of milk before placing the top rectangle on and crimping the edges with a fork.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American