Homemade Frosted Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tarts: A Nostalgic Classic Made From Scratch

Few things transport us back to childhood mornings like biting into a warm, sweet, cinnamon-laced Pop Tart fresh from the toaster. But what if you could recreate that same comforting experience — elevated with flaky, buttery pastry, rich brown sugar filling, and a dreamy vanilla-cinnamon glaze — right from your own kitchen? That’s exactly what this Homemade Frosted Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart recipe offers: a nostalgic breakfast treat with a gourmet, homemade twist.

Whether you’re baking for weekend brunch, meal-prepping snacks for the kids, or just indulging your inner child, these homemade pop tarts are guaranteed to impress. Made with all-butter pie crust, filled with a gooey brown sugar-cinnamon center, and topped with a silky glaze, they’re leagues above the store-bought kind in both flavor and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for:

• Home bakers looking for a fun, satisfying weekend project.

• Parents who want to offer a less processed version of a childhood favorite.

• Cinnamon lovers who crave a warm, spiced filling in every bite.

• Foodies who appreciate the difference real butter and pure vanilla can make.

The combination of a buttery, flaky pastry and rich cinnamon-spiced filling makes every bite heavenly. Plus, the smooth icing adds the perfect final touch — it sets beautifully, making the tarts both tasty and picture-perfect.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pastry:

• 2 ½ cups (313g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled

• 2 tsp granulated sugar

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

• ½ cup (120ml) ice water

For the Filling:

• ½ cup (100g) packed dark or light brown sugar

• 2 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1 tbsp (8g) all-purpose flour

• Egg Wash: 1 large egg + 2 tsp milk

For the Glaze:

• ¾ cup (90g) confectioners’ sugar, sifted

• 1 tbsp (15ml) milk (plus more as needed)

• ½ tsp ground cinnamon

• ¼ tsp pure vanilla extract

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make your own homemade frosted Pop Tarts, gather the following tools:

• Mixing bowls (large and small)

• Pastry cutter or food processor

• Rolling pin

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Baking sheets

• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats

• Sharp knife or pizza cutter

• Ruler (optional, but helpful for even cuts)

• Whisk

• Spatula

• Fork (for crimping edges)

• Cooling rack

• Airtight storage container

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Pastry Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits. Slowly drizzle in the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring gently until large clumps form.

Form the dough into a ball, divide it in half, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 2 hours.

2. Roll and Cut the Dough

Once chilled, let one dough disc sit at room temperature for 5 minutes. Roll it into a 9×12-inch rectangle about ⅛-inch thick. Cut into 9 rectangles (3×4 inches each). Repeat with the second disc. Place all 18 rectangles on parchment-lined baking sheets and refrigerate while making the filling.

3. Prepare the Filling

In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour. Mix well.

4. Assemble the Pop Tarts

Brush the bottom 9 rectangles with egg wash. Add a heaping tablespoon of filling to the center of each and spread it gently, leaving a ¼-inch border. Place the top pastry pieces (egg wash side down) over the filling and press edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges and a toothpick to poke steam holes in the tops.

Refrigerate the assembled pop tarts uncovered for 20–60 minutes.

5. Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Brush tops with remaining egg wash. Bake for 25–30 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack.

6. Glaze and Set

While pop tarts cool, mix all glaze ingredients until smooth. Add more milk if needed for spreadability. Once pop tarts are completely cool, spoon the glaze over the top and spread it gently. Allow the icing to set for at least 1 hour before serving.

Storage Tips

Homemade pop tarts are best enjoyed fresh but store beautifully:

• At room temperature: Up to 3 days in an airtight container.

• In the fridge: Up to 5 days.

• To freeze: Wrap unglazed pop tarts individually in plastic wrap and place in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.

Reheating Instructions:

Bake in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 10 minutes, or until warm. For a quicker option, pop them in a toaster oven (avoid regular toasters if glazed).

Recipe Variations

Feeling creative? Try these delicious variations:

• Fruit-Filled: Swap the brown sugar filling for your favorite jam (like strawberry, blueberry, or raspberry).

• Chocolate Lovers: Use Nutella or a mix of cocoa powder and sugar with a touch of cream.

• Maple Glaze: Replace the vanilla extract in the glaze with maple extract for an autumnal twist.

• Add Nuts: Mix finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the brown sugar filling for added texture.

Food & Drink Pairings

Pair your homemade Pop Tarts with:

• A frothy latte or cappuccino

• Cold brew or cinnamon-spiced iced coffee

• Warm apple cider for a cozy touch

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Both the dough and assembled (unbaked) pop tarts can be stored in the fridge for several days or frozen for longer storage.

Why is my dough cracking?

Cracking usually means your dough is too dry. Add a bit more water when mixing, and let it rest properly before rolling.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Keep in mind the texture may be slightly different.

Is there a vegan version?

Swap butter with vegan butter and use plant-based milk for the egg wash and glaze. Use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water) as an egg substitute.

My glaze is too runny. What can I do?

Add more sifted confectioners’ sugar a little at a time until the glaze thickens to your liking.

Final Thoughts

These Homemade Frosted Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tarts are a labor of love that rewards you with each bite. From the buttery pastry to the warm spiced filling and sweet glaze, they hit every nostalgic note while elevating your breakfast or snack game.

Whether you’re baking for your family or treating yourself, this recipe brings joy, warmth, and a sweet sense of accomplishment to your kitchen.