Easy Cookies and Creme Pop Tarts Copycat Recipe At Home

Cookies and Creme Pop Tarts Copycat Recipe: a delightful homemade version of the classic treat, featuring a rich chocolate crust and creamy filling.

This recipe recreates the iconic toaster pastry, delivering a delightful balance of chocolate and vanilla flavors in every bite. The homemade version features a buttery, chocolate-infused crust encasing a sweet, creamy center, offering a satisfyingly nostalgic experience.

The contrast between the slightly crumbly, cocoa-rich pastry and the smooth, vanilla-scented filling creates a textural and flavorful harmony. Each bite evokes memories of childhood mornings, amplified by the warm, comforting aroma that fills the kitchen during baking.

While commercially produced Pop-Tarts have their place, crafting them from scratch allows for control over ingredients and customization of flavors. This homemade approach transforms a convenience food into a delectable treat made with care and attention to detail.

The recipes adaptability is a key advantage, it is welcome to those who seek to modify sweetness levels, experiment with different extracts, or cater to dietary preferences. The process is approachable for bakers of all skill levels, promising a rewarding outcome with minimal fuss.

Common variations include adding a drizzle of melted chocolate on top, incorporating crushed cookies into the filling, or experimenting with different flavored extracts in the dough. These homemade pastries pair perfectly with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee, making them ideal for breakfast or dessert.

Eager to recreate this childhood favorite in your own kitchen? The following recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating these delightful homemade pastries, ensuring a delicious and satisfying treat for all.

Recipe Metadata

• Categories: Baking, Holiday Recipes
• Courses: Desserts, Breakfast
• Cuisines: American
• Keywords: Pop Tarts, Cookies and Cream, Chocolate, Pastry, Homemade, Snack

Estimated Cost: $12.00 total

Preparation Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Recipe Yield: Makes 8 Pop Tarts

Ingredients

• For the Crust:
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1/2 cup cold vegetable shortening, cubed
  • 6-8 tablespoons ice water
• For the Filling:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos)
• For the Glaze (Optional):
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk
  • Sprinkles, for decoration

Instructions

• Step 1: Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter and shortening using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Step 2: Add Water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
• Step 3: Chill the Dough: Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
• Step 4: Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, beat together the powdered sugar and softened butter until smooth and creamy. Add the milk and vanilla extract, and mix well. Fold in the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies.
• Step 5: Assemble the Pop Tarts: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough into a large rectangle about 1/8 inch thick. Use a knife or pastry cutter to cut out 16 rectangles (approximately 3×4 inches each).
• Step 6: Add Filling and Top: Place half of the rectangles onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread a generous spoonful of filling onto each rectangle, leaving a small border around the edges. Top with the remaining rectangles.
• Step 7: Seal the Edges: Use a fork to crimp the edges of each Pop Tart to seal the filling inside. Prick the tops of the Pop Tarts with a fork to allow steam to escape.
• Step 8: Bake: Preheat oven to 375F (190C). Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the crusts are golden brown.
• Step 9: Cool and Glaze (Optional): Let the Pop Tarts cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk for the glaze, and drizzle over the cooled Pop Tarts. Sprinkle with sprinkles, if desired.

For a richer chocolate flavor, use dark cocoa powder. If you don’t have vegetable shortening, you can use all butter, but the crust may not be as flaky.

Nutritional Information

Approximate nutritional values per serving (1 Pop Tart). Values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Essential Cooking Equipment

• Mixing bowls (various sizes)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pastry blender or food processor
• Rolling pin
• Knife or pastry cutter
• Fork
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet
• Wire rack

Variations

The Cookies and Creme Pop Tarts Copycat Recipe offers numerous opportunities for customization. Ingredient substitutions, regional adaptations, and dietary modifications allow for a personalized baking experience.

• Ingredient Swaps: Consider using different flavored sandwich cookies, such as peanut butter or mint, in the filling. Alternative extracts, like almond or peppermint, can enhance the flavor profile. The cocoa powder in the crust can be substituted with an equal amount of espresso powder for a mocha flavor.
• Regional Twists: Incorporate spices commonly used in regional baking traditions, such as cinnamon or cardamom, into the dough or filling. A small amount of citrus zest, like orange or lemon, can add brightness to the pastries.
• Dietary Adjustments: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. A dairy-free alternative can be achieved by using plant-based butter and milk. To reduce sugar content, use a sugar substitute in both the filling and glaze.

Serving Suggestions

These homemade pastries are versatile and can be served at various times of the day. They make a delightful breakfast treat alongside a cup of coffee or tea. Alternatively, they can be served as a dessert, either warm or at room temperature. Consider serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an elevated dessert experience.

Storage Tips

To preserve freshness, Cookies and Creme Pop Tarts Copycat Recipe should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature. When stored properly, these pastries can maintain their quality for up to 3 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before serving. Ensure pastries are completely cooled before storing to prevent moisture buildup.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Question 1: Can the dough be made ahead of time? The dough can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before rolling out.
• Question 2: Can the Pop Tarts be baked ahead and reheated? The baked pastries can be prepared a day in advance and reheated briefly in a toaster or oven.
• Question 3: What is the best way to prevent the filling from leaking? Ensure the edges are sealed tightly with a fork. Pricking the tops of the pastries with a fork allows steam to escape, preventing the filling from bursting out.
• Question 4: Can I use pre-made pie crust instead of making the dough from scratch?Pre-made pie crust can be used, but the texture and flavor may differ from the homemade version. Be sure to use a chocolate-flavored crust if available.

Summary & Final Thoughts

This Cookies and Creme Pop Tarts Copycat Recipe brings a beloved childhood treat into your kitchen, offering a homemade touch that elevates its flavor and quality. Imagine biting into a warm, chocolatey pastry with a creamy, cookie-filled center it’s a comforting and delightful experience you won’t want to miss!

What’s great is that you can easily customize this recipe to suit your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different cookie flavors, add a hint of espresso to the dough, or even use a gluten-free flour blend. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a pastry that perfectly matches your taste.

So, why not give this recipe a try? We’re confident you’ll love the process of creating these delicious treats from scratch. Don’t forget to share your results with us we’d love to see your culinary creations or hear about any fun variations you’ve tried!

Happy cooking! Let us know how yours turns out!