Name: Indulgent Frosted Cinnamon Pop Tart Cookies You'll Crave
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup brown sugar (packed); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup cinnamon baking chips; 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted); 2 tablespoons milk (adjust as needed); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Frosted Cinnamon Pop Tart Cookies - Savory Splash

As I pulled a tray of cookies from the oven, the warm aroma of cinnamon enveloped my kitchen, instantly transforming it into a cozy haven. It was one of those days when I craved something delightfully sweet and comforting, yet didn’t want to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. That’s when I decided to whip up these Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Baking Chips Cookies, a recipe that seamlessly combines simplicity with scrumptious flavor.

Imagine biting into a cookie that boasts a golden edge and a soft, chewy center, each mouthful infused with bursts of warm cinnamon goodness. They're the perfect antidote to the fast-food rut, offering a rich homemade experience that’s ideal for anyone—whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned kitchen pro. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort required, this delightful treat can easily become your go-to dessert for any occasion. So grab your mixing bowl, and let's bring the sweet allure of cinnamon to life!

Why Are Frosted Cinnamon Pop Tart Cookies Irresistible?

Delightful Experience: Each bite is a nostalgic journey back to childhood, reminiscent of beloved Pop Tarts but in cookie form!
Simple Setup: With just a few easy steps, you can create a batch without getting overwhelmed in the kitchen.
Bold Flavor: The cinnamon and sweetness combine beautifully, making every cookie a comforting treat.
Perfect Pairing: These cookies are ideal for sharing! Serve them alongside coffee or milk for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
Make Ahead: Bake a big batch and store them for future cravings, or freeze them for a warm treat anytime.
Get ready to indulge in these cookies that will quickly become your new favorite homemade dessert!

Frosted Cinnamon Pop Tart Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Unsalted butter – Creamy base for rich flavor; ensure it's softened to room temperature for the best results.
Brown sugar – Adds deep sweetness with a hint of molasses; pack it tightly when measuring.
Granulated sugar – Balances the flavors and contributes to a delightful crispness.
Large egg – Essential for binding ingredients and adding moisture for a chewy texture.
Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile with a touch of aromatic sweetness.
All-purpose flour – Forms the backbone of the cookie, giving it structure and stability.
Cornstarch – Ensures wonderfully soft and tender cookies, so don’t skip this important ingredient.
Cinnamon – Infuses the cookie with warm spice and connects back to the delightful nostalgia of cinnamon treats.
Baking powder – Provides a slight rise, keeping the cookies light and airy.
Salt – Balances and enhances the sweetness, bringing out the flavors beautifully.
Cinnamon baking chips – Offers distinct bursts of cinnamon flavor, making each bite a rewarding experience.

For the Frosting

Powdered sugar – Creates a sweet and smooth frosting; sift for a fluffy texture.
Milk – Adjusts the consistency of your frosting; add a little at a time for the perfect spreadability.
Vanilla extract – Adds an extra layer of flavor to the frosting; the same aromatic goodness ties it all together.

Get ready to whip up these Frosted Cinnamon Pop Tart Cookies and indulge in a delightful baking experience!

How to Make Frosted Cinnamon Pop Tart Cookies

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, ready for those delicious cookies.
Cream Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter, packed brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this should take about 3-5 minutes.
Mix in Egg and Vanilla: Add a large egg and a splash of vanilla extract to the bowl, mixing until everything is well combined for a smooth batter.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt until fully incorporated. This mixture will create the structure of your cookies.
Blend Wet and Dry Mixture: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep your cookies tender!
Fold in Cinnamon Chips: Gently fold in the cinnamon baking chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough, so every bite is bursting with flavor.
Scoop Dough: Using a tablespoon, drop portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space in between for the cookies to spread as they bake.
Bake Cookies: Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden, and the centers appear set but soft.
Cool Down: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

For the Frosting:

Mix Frosting Ingredients: In a bowl, combine powdered sugar, a splash of milk, and a touch of vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Adjust milk as needed for desired consistency.
Frost Cookies: Once your cookies have cooled completely, generously spread the frosting over the top of each cookie, allowing it to flow into that delightful, inviting shape.

Optional: Sprinkle with additional cinnamon for a beautiful finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Cinnamon Baking Chips Variations

Embrace your creativity and explore delightful twists on this classic recipe!

Chocolate Chip: Swap cinnamon chips for semi-sweet chocolate chips for a rich, decadent treat. The chocolate will add a pleasing contrast to the warm spice.
Nutty Addition: Stir in 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for a pleasant crunch, enhancing the texture while balancing flavors.
Spiced Sugar: Sprinkle a blend of cinnamon and sugar on top before baking for an extra sweet and spiced crust. This simple step elevates flavor and presentation!
Gluten-Free: Use a blend of gluten-free flour and starch to make this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive friends. The cookies will remain soft and delicious!
Maple Glaze: Drizzle a simple maple icing using powdered sugar and maple syrup for a delightful twist on traditional frosting. This adds a new layer of flavor to every bite.
Zesty Twist: Incorporate the zest of one orange or lemon into the dough for a refreshing citrusy brightness that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to give your cookies a surprising warming heat that'll tantalize the taste buds.
Oatmeal Infusion: Mixing in 1 cup of quick oats will create a heartier cookie while adding chewy texture and maintaining that cinnamon richness.

Each variation invites you to make this recipe uniquely yours, sparking joy with every delicious bite!

Make Ahead Options

These Soft and Chewy Cinnamon Baking Chips Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients but refrain from adding the cinnamon chips just yet. Store the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its fresh quality and prevent any browning. When you're ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto a baking sheet, fold in the cinnamon baking chips, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until golden. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies any day of the week with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Frosted Cinnamon Pop Tart Cookies

Airtight Container: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their moist and chewy texture.

Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy a freshly baked experience, reheat frozen cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

Frosting Storage: If you have leftover frosting, store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 1 week; add a splash of milk before reusing if needed.

What to Serve with Frosted Cinnamon Pop Tart Cookies?

Warm and inviting, these cookies are perfect for a cozy gathering or a sweet treat just for you.

Freshly Brewed Coffee: The rich flavors of the coffee pair wonderfully with the sweet cinnamon, enhancing your treat's warmth and comfort.
Glass of Milk: A classic companion to any cookie, milk offers a creamy, refreshing contrast to the sweet spice.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Savor every bite by sandwiching a warm cookie with a scoop of melting vanilla ice cream for an indulgent experience.
Chai Tea: The spicy notes in chai harmonize beautifully with the cinnamon, creating a soothing afternoon treat full of robust flavors.
Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate the cookies with a drizzle of melted chocolate; it's an unexpected twist that adds richness to each bite.
Apple Slices: Crisp and tart apple slices make for a refreshing contrast, lightening up the sweetness while echoing the cinnamon flavor.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel over the cookies for an extra layer of decadence, creating a dessert that's even more irresistible!
Hot Chocolate: Enjoy these cookies as a delicious pairing with a mug of hot cocoa for a comforting dessert experience on a cold day.

These delightful combinations will elevate your Frosted Cinnamon Pop Tart Cookies to a meal that stays sweetly memorable!

Helpful Tricks for Frosted Cinnamon Pop Tart Cookies

Butter Softness Matters: Make sure your unsalted butter is softened to room temperature, about 30 minutes out of the fridge. This helps achieve that light, fluffy texture in your cookie dough.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the tender, soft Frosted Cinnamon Pop Tart Cookies you desire.
Cool Properly: After baking, allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them. This helps set their structure and prevents breakage.
Frosting Consistency: Adjust the milk in your frosting gradually to achieve the perfect spreadable consistency. Too much liquid can make it too runny, while too little may make it too thick.
Storage Tips: Store your Frosted Cinnamon Pop Tart Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness. They'll keep their deliciousness for up to a week!

Frosted Cinnamon Pop Tart Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of cinnamon baking chips should I use?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I recommend using high-quality cinnamon baking chips. You can find them in most grocery stores or online. If you can't find cinnamon baking chips, you can substitute with white chocolate chips and add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the dough to mimic that delightful cinnamon flavor!

How should I store leftover cookies?
To keep those lovely cookies fresh, simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. I often use a cookie jar lined with wax paper to help absorb any moisture while keeping them soft and chewy.

Can I freeze the Frosted Cinnamon Pop Tart Cookies?
Certainly! To properly freeze your cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag, making sure to squeeze out excess air. These can be kept for up to 3 months. When you're ready to indulge, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes for that just-baked experience!

What should I do if my cookie dough is too crumbly?
If your dough seems crumbly, it might be due to insufficient moisture. Try adding a tablespoon of milk or an extra egg yolk to help bind it together. Always add liquids gradually! If you find the dough too wet, add a bit more flour until you reach the desired consistency.

Are these cookies safe for pets?
No, it's best not to share these cookies with your furry friends. They contain ingredients like chocolate and sugar that can be harmful to dogs. Always keep treats made for humans away from pets, and make sure to have some pet-friendly treats on hand for them!

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Yes! You can certainly prepare the frosting a few days in advance. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Before using, let it come to room temperature and give it a quick stir to restore its creamy texture.