Can I use store-bought Pop Tarts in this recipe?

Yes, you can. Crumbling store-bought Pop Tarts on top before baking adds extra crunch and enhances the nostalgic flavor. Choose strawberry or frosted varieties for a colorful finish that matches the homemade glaze.

What if I don’t have strawberry jam?

You can substitute any fruit preserves you have on hand. Raspberry, cherry, or apricot jam all work perfectly. For a tangy twist, mix two flavors together or add a squeeze of lemon juice to balance the sweetness.

How can I make these bars gluten-free?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Brands like King Arthur or Bob’s Red Mill provide excellent texture and taste. Make sure the other ingredients, especially baking powder, are labeled gluten-free as well.

Can I double the recipe for parties or bake sales?

Absolutely. Simply double all ingredients and bake the mixture in a 9×13-inch pan. The bars will take about 5 to 10 minutes longer to bake. Keep an eye on the edges—when they turn golden and the center is set, they’re done.

Can I skip the glaze or use a different topping?

Yes, you can skip the glaze if you prefer less sweetness. However, the glaze gives these bars their signature Pop Tart finish. For alternatives, try melted white chocolate, cream cheese frosting, or a light dusting of powdered sugar.

How do I keep the bars from becoming dry or crumbly?

The key is not to overbake. Remove the bars as soon as the edges turn golden and the center still looks slightly soft. Measure your flour carefully and store the bars in an airtight container to lock in moisture. If they do dry out slightly, a short microwave reheat (5–10 seconds) softens them back up.

Strawberry Pop Tart Cookie Bars: The Best Nostalgic Dessert Ever (Easy Recipe)

Name: Strawberry Pop Tart Cookie Bars: The Best Nostalgic Dessert Ever
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar; ½ cup (100g) brown sugar; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 ¾ cups (345g) all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ¾ cup strawberry jam or preserves; 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional); 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk or cream; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; A few drops of pink or red food coloring; Sprinkles (optional)

Description

Strawberry Pop Tart Cookie Bars are soft, jam-filled dessert bars with a sweet glaze and nostalgic flavor. They’re perfect for parties, brunch, or a cozy weekend bake with the kids.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cookie Base and Top Layer:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

½ cup (100g) brown sugar

2 large eggs, room temperature

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2 ¾ cups (345g) all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

For the Strawberry Filling:

¾ cup strawberry jam or preserves

1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional)

For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar

2 tablespoons milk or cream

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

A few drops of pink or red food coloring

Sprinkles (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.

2. Cream butter and sugars until fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.

3. Mix in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.

5. Gradually add dry to wet until a soft dough forms.

6. Press half the dough into the pan. Spread strawberry jam over the base.

7. Drop spoonfuls of remaining dough on top and gently flatten.

8. Bake 25–30 minutes or until golden. Cool completely.

9. Whisk glaze ingredients until smooth. Tint pink, spread over bars.

10. Top with sprinkles. Let set, then slice and serve.

Notes

Don’t overmix the dough to keep bars soft.

Let bars cool fully before glazing to avoid melting.

Try other fillings like raspberry or blueberry for variations.

Store at room temp 3 days or freeze up to 2 months.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert Bars
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 230
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 90mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 40mg