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- 1 package (1 lb) refrigerated pie crusts - 1/2 cup of your favorite fruit preserves or jam - 1 egg for egg wash - 1 cup powdered sugar - 2 tablespoons milk or cream - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract - Optional: Sprinkles or colored sugar for decoration Gather these simple ingredients to make your homemade pop tarts. You can find refrigerated pie crusts at any grocery store. They save time and keep things easy. Choose your favorite fruit preserves or jam. Strawberry, blueberry, or mixed berry work great. The egg acts as glue to seal the pop tarts. For the icing, you will need powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla extract. This mix gives your pop tarts a sweet finish. Finally, consider adding sprinkles or colored sugar for fun. This makes your treat even more exciting! When you have everything ready, you can start making your delightful pop tarts. The process is simple and fun! {{ingredient_image_2}} - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - On a floured surface, roll out the pie crusts to about 1/8 inch thick. - Cut the dough into 3x4 inch rectangles. You need 8 rectangles: 4 for the bottoms and 4 for the tops. - Take 4 rectangles and place 1 tablespoon of fruit preserves in the center of each. Leave a small border around the edges. - Brush the edges of the filled rectangles with the beaten egg. This will help seal them. - Place the remaining rectangles on top of the filled ones. Press down gently on the edges. - Use a fork to crimp the edges together for a secure seal. - Poke 2-3 small holes in the tops to let steam escape. - Brush the tops with the remaining beaten egg for a golden finish. - Bake the pop tarts in the oven for 20-25 minutes. They should be lightly golden brown and flaky. - While the pop tarts bake, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla in a bowl. - Whisk until smooth and glossy. If too thick, add more milk, one teaspoon at a time. - Once the pop tarts cool, drizzle the icing over the tops. - Add colorful sprinkles if you like. Allow the icing to set before serving. Enjoy your delightful homemade pop tarts warm or at room temperature! To seal the edges well, use the beaten egg as glue. Brush it around the edges before placing the top crust. Press firmly to make sure the filling stays in. A fork works great for crimping the edges. This adds a nice touch and keeps everything sealed tight. When adding fruit preserves, use about one tablespoon per pop tart. Choose your favorite flavor, like strawberry or blueberry. Make sure to leave space around the edges. This helps with sealing and keeps the filling from oozing out. You’ll know your pop tarts are done when they turn golden brown. Check for a flaky texture on the top. If they look pale, give them a few more minutes. Common mistakes include overfilling or not poking holes. Overfilling causes the filling to burst out. Poking holes lets steam escape and prevents sogginess. Always remember to poke 2-3 holes in the top before baking. To get the perfect icing consistency, mix powdered sugar with milk. Start with two tablespoons of milk. If it’s too thick, add a tiny bit more. The icing should flow but not be runny. For icing decoration, get creative! Use colorful sprinkles or a drizzle of chocolate. You can even add food coloring to the icing for fun designs. Pro Tips Choose Quality Preserves: Use high-quality fruit preserves or jam for the best flavor. Homemade or gourmet brands can elevate your pop tarts significantly. Don’t Skip the Egg Wash: Brushing the tops with egg wash not only gives your pop tarts a beautiful golden color but also helps the icing adhere better. Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to try different combinations of jams or even add chocolate or nut butter for a unique twist on traditional pop tarts. Cool Before Drizzling: Allow your pop tarts to cool slightly before adding icing. This prevents the icing from melting and ensures a nice finish. {{image_4}} You can mix things up with your pop tarts. Here are some ideas: - Fruit Preserves: Try different flavors like raspberry, peach, or apricot. Each jam gives a new taste. - Chocolate Fillings: Instead of fruit, use Nutella or chocolate spread. This adds a sweet twist. If you have special diets, you can still enjoy these pop tarts: - Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pie crusts. Many brands offer good options that taste great. - Vegan Adaptation: Replace the egg wash with almond milk. For the icing, use plant-based milk and powdered sugar. Make your pop tarts fun and festive: - Holiday Sprinkles: Use colored sprinkles for different holidays. They add a bright touch. - Custom Icing Designs: Get creative! Use a piping bag to create fun shapes on top. You can even write messages. These variations let you enjoy pop tarts your way. To keep your homemade pop tarts fresh, follow these tips: - Short-term storage: Place them in an airtight container. They stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days. - Long-term freezing: Wrap each pop tart in plastic wrap. Then, store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy your pop tarts again, use these methods: - Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pop tarts on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. - Microwave: Heat them on a plate for about 10-15 seconds. This method is quick but may make them a bit soft. Homemade pop tarts last about three days at room temperature. If you freeze them, they can last up to three months. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature for the best taste. Yes, you can use homemade pie crust! Just make sure it’s rolled out thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. The crust needs to be firm enough to hold the filling. Homemade crust adds a personal touch and can taste even better. Your pop tarts are done when they turn golden brown. Look for a flaky texture on top. It usually takes about 20-25 minutes at 375°F. If the edges start to brown faster, check them often. Absolutely! You can prepare your fruit filling a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge. Make sure to let it come to room temperature before using it in your pop tarts. This helps with even baking. You can use other fillings like Nutella, peanut butter, or cream cheese. Just ensure the filling isn’t too runny. You can even use fresh fruits mixed with a little sugar. This gives you a fresh taste. Pop tarts taste best fresh from the oven. However, you can store them. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to a month. Just reheat before eating! Making homemade pop tarts is simple and fun. You learned about the key ingredients and step-by-step instructions. I shared tips for great results and ways to personalize your pop tarts. Don’t forget the icing ideas to make them shine. With options for different flavors and dietary needs, there’s something for everyone. You can store these treats well, and enjoy them later. Experiment with your fillings and decorations. You’ll impress friends and family with your tasty creations. Get baking and enjoy your delicious pop tarts!

The Easiest Homemade Pop Tarts

Delicious homemade pop tarts filled with your favorite fruit preserves and topped with icing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (1 lb, contains 2 crusts)
  • 1/2 cup your favorite fruit preserves or jam (strawberry, blueberry, or any berry jam)
  • 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk or cream (adjust for icing consistency)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • optional sprinkles or colored sugar for decoration

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
  • On a lightly floured surface, roll out the refrigerated pie crusts until they're about 1/8 inch thick. Cut the dough into rectangles measuring approximately 3x4 inches.
  • Take one half of the rectangles (4 pieces) and place about 1 tablespoon of your chosen fruit preserves in the center of each, leaving a small border around the edges.
  • Brush the edges of these rectangles with the beaten egg to assist with sealing.
  • Carefully place the remaining rectangles on top of the filled ones to create a sandwich. Press down gently on the edges and use a fork to crimp the edges together.
  • Use a fork to poke 2-3 small holes in the tops of each pop tart.
  • Brush the tops of the pop tarts with the remaining beaten egg.
  • Place the pop tarts in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden brown and flaky.
  • While the pop tarts are baking, prepare the icing by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy.
  • Once the pop tarts are done baking, let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. Drizzle the prepared icing over the tops and sprinkle with colorful sprinkles if desired.
  • Allow the icing to set for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Indulge in your delightful homemade pop tarts while they're warm or at room temperature for a tasty treat any time of day!
Keyword dessert, fruit preserves, homemade, pop tarts