If you’re a fan of the classic brown sugar cinnamon Pop-Tarts, you’ll love these homemade Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars! This recipe is a fun twist on a childhood favorite, combining the sweet cinnamon flavor with a buttery crust and a creamy glaze. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a dessert, these bars are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Why You’ll Love These Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars
- Nostalgic Flavor: These bars capture the essence of your favorite Pop-Tarts but with a homemade touch.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for all skill levels.
- Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness or add a drizzle of icing to make them extra special.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving them at a brunch, packing them for a road trip, or enjoying them as an after-school snack, these bars are versatile and delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- For the Crust:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the Filling:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- A pinch of cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a crumbly dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
- Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool.
2. Make the Filling:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour.
- Stir in the melted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
3. Bake the Bars:
- Place the pan back into the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan.
4. Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. If you want an extra cinnamon kick, add a pinch of cinnamon to the glaze.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the glaze has set, cut the bars into squares or rectangles and serve. Enjoy these Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars with a cold glass of milk or your favorite cup of coffee!
Tips for the Best Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars
- Chill the Dough: If your dough is too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before pressing it into the pan.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the crust and the bars while they bake to ensure they don’t overcook. The goal is a golden-brown color and a soft, chewy texture.
- Custom Glaze: Feel free to adjust the glaze consistency by adding more milk for a thinner drizzle or more powdered sugar for a thicker coating.
Serving and Storage Tips for Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars
Serving Tips
- Warm or Room Temperature: These bars are delicious whether served warm or at room temperature. For a comforting treat, you can slightly warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.
- Pairings: These bars go perfectly with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk. You can also serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert option.
- Presentation: If you’re serving these bars at a gathering, cut them into uniform squares or rectangles for a clean presentation. For an extra touch, dust a light layer of powdered sugar or cinnamon on top before serving.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store your Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. This keeps them soft and chewy without drying out.
- Refrigeration: If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate the bars. Store them in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap. They will last for up to 5-7 days in the fridge.
- Freezing: To extend the shelf life, you can freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Thaw them at room temperature or warm them up in the microwave for a quick treat.
1. Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of making the crust from scratch?
- Yes, you can use store-bought pie crust as a time-saving alternative. Simply press the pre-made crust into the baking pan and proceed with the rest of the recipe. Keep in mind that homemade crust offers a richer, buttery flavor, but store-bought works well in a pinch.
2. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
- Absolutely! To make these bars gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Ensure the butter and other ingredients are gluten-free as well. The texture may vary slightly, but they will still be delicious.
3. How do I prevent the glaze from being too runny?
- If your glaze is too runny, simply add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk, about a teaspoon at a time, until it’s just right for drizzling over the bars.
4. Can I add other fillings to these bars, like fruit or chocolate?
- Yes! You can customize these bars by adding different fillings such as jam, fruit preserves, or even chocolate chips. Simply spread a layer of your chosen filling over the crust before adding the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a fun twist on the classic flavor.