Strawberry Pop-Tarts

Name: Strawberry Pop-Tarts
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp granulated sugar; 1 cup cold butter, cubed; ½ cup cold water; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 12 tbsp strawberry preserves; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1-2 tbsp milk; Red sanding sugar (optional, for decoration)

Isabella

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Indulge in the nostalgic joy of homemade Strawberry Pop-Tarts! These delightful pastries, filled with sweet strawberry preserves and topped with a simple powdered sugar glaze, are perfect for breakfast or a satisfying snack. With a golden, flaky crust and a burst of strawberry flavor, this recipe brings a classic treat to your kitchen with a homemade touch.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

2½ cups all-purpose flour

2 tbsp granulated sugar

1 cup cold butter, cubed

½ cup cold water

1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Filling:

12 tbsp strawberry preserves

For the Icing:

1 cup powdered sugar

1-2 tbsp milk

Red sanding sugar (optional, for decoration)

Directions:

Prepare the Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and granulated sugar.

Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Stir in the cold water and vanilla extract until a dough forms.

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Roll and Cut:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness.

Cut the dough into rectangles, approximately 3×4 inches each.

Fill and Seal:

Place a spoonful of strawberry preserves in the center of half of the rectangles.

Top with the remaining rectangles, pressing the edges to seal and crimping with a fork to ensure the filling stays inside.

Bake:

Place the filled rectangles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Allow to cool on a wire rack.

Ice and Decorate:

While the pop-tarts cool, prepare the icing by mixing powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of milk until smooth.

Drizzle the icing over the cooled pop-tarts and sprinkle with red sanding sugar, if desired.

Serving Tips:

Serve Warm:

For the best taste, enjoy the pop-tarts slightly warm. You can pop them in the toaster for a few seconds or warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

Pair with a Beverage:

These pop-tarts pair wonderfully with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or a hot tea, making them a great breakfast or snack option.

Add a Touch of Freshness:

Consider serving with a side of fresh strawberries or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat.

Kids’ Favorite:

These pop-tarts make a fun and nostalgic snack for kids. You can even let them help with decorating the icing and sanding sugar for a hands-on activity.

Storage Tips:

Room Temperature:

Store leftover pop-tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This will keep them fresh and prevent them from becoming soggy.

Refrigeration:

If you want them to last a bit longer, you can refrigerate them. Place the pop-tarts in an airtight container and they should stay fresh for up to 1 week.

Freezing:

For longer storage, freeze the pop-tarts. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the toaster or oven.

Reviving the Crispiness:

To restore some of the crispiness, reheat the pop-tarts in a toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. This will help to get them closer to their fresh-baked texture.

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FAQs:

Can I use a different flavor of preserves?

Yes, you can customize your pop-tarts with different flavors of preserves or jams. Try raspberry, blueberry, or apricot for a unique twist. Just be sure to use a thick, fruit preserve to avoid excessive leakage during baking.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before rolling it out to make it easier to handle.

Can I freeze the unbaked pop-tarts?

Yes, you can freeze unbaked pop-tarts. Assemble them as directed, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake directly from the freezer, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time.

What can I use instead of red sanding sugar for decoration?

If you don’t have red sanding sugar, you can use other types of sprinkles or colored sugar for decoration. Alternatively, you can skip the decoration altogether or drizzle the pop-tarts with additional icing for a simple yet delicious finish.

Conclusion:

Enjoy these homemade Strawberry Pop-Tarts fresh from the oven or stored in an airtight container for a quick treat. Perfectly crispy, sweet, and utterly delicious, these pop-tarts will become a favorite in your recipe repertoire!

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