If you grew up loving the sweet nostalgia of fruit-filled pop-tarts, you are in for an absolute treat with this homemade Strawberry Pop-Tarts Recipe. It brings together the flaky, buttery crust and the vibrant burst of strawberry preserves into a delightful handheld pastry that feels like a hug from the inside. Nothing compares to biting into one fresh from the oven, topped with that glossy, sugary glaze and a pop of red sparkle. Whether for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or anytime you want to brighten your day, these pop-tarts will quickly become your new favorite indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Strawberry Pop-Tarts Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to build the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and appearance, making the end result irresistible. From the rich buttery dough to the sweet strawberry preserves and the final glaze, every component plays a crucial role in delivering that classic pop-tart experience.
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a flaky, tender crust that holds all the delicious filling.
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar: Adds just a hint of sweetness to the dough, balancing the tang of the strawberries.
- 1 cup cold butter, cubed: Key for that irresistible flaky texture, use chilled butter for best results.
- ½ cup cold water: Helps bring the dough together without warming the butter.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, sweet aroma that enhances the dough’s flavor.
- 12 tbsp strawberry preserves: The star ingredient with the vibrant, fruity filling that makes these pop-tarts unforgettable.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Used to make the silky glaze that finishes off these pastries with a touch of sweetness.
- 1-2 tbsp milk: Just enough to create a smooth icing consistency for drizzling.
- Red sanding sugar (optional): Adds a playful sparkle and festive finish once everything is iced.
How to Make Strawberry Pop-Tarts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by combining the flour and sugar in a large bowl. The sugar will subtly sweeten the dough, making it a perfect base for strawberry filling. Next, cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs—don’t rush this step, as those buttery bits are what create flaky layers. Stir in the cold water and vanilla extract just enough to bring the dough together, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step is vital for the dough to relax and makes rolling easier.
Step 2: Roll and Cut
Once chilled, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly flour a surface and roll the dough out to about ¼-inch thickness—thin enough to be flaky but sturdy to hold filling. Then, cut the dough into neat 3×4-inch rectangles. This size is perfect for individual pop-tarts that fit comfortably in your hand and bake evenly. Keep your shapes uniform for consistent baking results.
Step 3: Fill and Seal
Place a generous spoonful of the luscious strawberry preserves in the center of half of the cut rectangles. The preserves add that unforgettable fruity jammy kick. Cover each with another rectangle and press the edges together carefully. To really seal the filling in and add a charming touch, crimp the edges with a fork. This step helps prevent leaks while baking and gives your pop-tarts that classic look.
Step 4: Bake
Arrange the pop-tarts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and bake for 15 minutes or until the dough turns a golden brown. Baking time ensures the crust is perfectly cooked—crispy on the edges and tender inside. Once baked, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before icing. Cooling is essential so the glaze doesn’t melt away.
Step 5: Ice and Decorate
Mix the powdered sugar with milk to create a smooth glaze for drizzling. This icing gives your pop-tarts a sweet, glossy finish and pairs beautifully with the strawberry filling. Drizzle liberally over the cooled pastries, then sprinkle with red sanding sugar if you want to add a festive sparkle. This final step not only enhances flavor but also makes these pop-tarts downright irresistible to the eye.
How to Serve Strawberry Pop-Tarts Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of color and texture, try adding a fresh strawberry slice or a dollop of whipped cream alongside your pop-tarts. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add an elegant touch. These garnishes elevate the simple pastry into an eye-catching treat, perfect for serving guests or making your daily breakfast feel special.
Side Dishes
Pairing your Strawberry Pop-Tarts Recipe with a side of Greek yogurt or a small fruit salad enriches the flavor experience. The creamy yogurt balances the sweetness, while fresh seasonal fruits echo the lovely strawberry notes, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal or snack.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Layer your pop-tarts on a rustic wooden board with fresh strawberries, edible flowers, and small bowls of extra preserves or cream cheese frosting for dipping. You can also cut them into mini squares for bite-sized treats at parties. These creative presentations turn a homemade pop-tart into a conversation star.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Strawberry Pop-Tarts Recipe pastries, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep the crust crisp. For longer freshness, refrigeration is an option but may slightly soften the crust.
Freezing
These pop-tarts freeze beautifully. Wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you want a quick treat, just thaw them at room temperature or warm gently in the oven for that fresh-baked feel.
Reheating
To enjoy pop-tarts warm, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This brings back the flaky texture and melts the filling slightly, giving you that perfect fresh-from-the-oven experience any time.
FAQs
Can I use different fruit preserves instead of strawberry?
Absolutely! While this recipe shines with strawberry preserves, feel free to experiment with raspberry, blueberry, or apricot preserves. Just ensure they aren’t too runny to prevent soggy pop-tarts.
Is there a way to make these gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend designed for pastries. Keep in mind the texture might differ slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Definitely! The dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before rolling and assembling, making it easier to manage busy days or meal prep.
How can I make the glaze thicker or thinner?
Adjust the milk amount to control the glaze consistency. Add less milk for a thicker glaze that sits on top or more milk for a thinner glaze that drizzles smoothly.
What is the best way to avoid the filling leaking?
Ensure you press the edges securely with a fork to seal the pop-tarts. Also, avoid overfilling; use just enough preserves to allow sealing without spills during baking.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend trying this Strawberry Pop-Tarts Recipe enough if you love sweet, comforting pastries with a homemade touch. It’s a perfect blend of flaky, buttery dough and bright, fruity filling that feels like a little celebration with every bite. Give it a go—you might just find a new favorite recipe to make again and again.
Print
Strawberry Pop-Tarts Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Delight in homemade Strawberry Pop-Tarts with a flaky, buttery crust filled with sweet strawberry preserves. These classic breakfast pastries are easy to make from scratch and topped with a simple powdered sugar glaze and optional red sanding sugar for a festive touch. Perfect for a nostalgic treat or special breakfast occasion.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 cup cold butter, cubed
- ½ cup cold water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Filling
- 12 tbsp strawberry preserves
Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp milk
- Red sanding sugar (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and granulated sugar. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the cold water and vanilla extract until a dough forms. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill and firm up.
- Roll and Cut: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a knife or a rectangular cutter to cut the dough into rectangles roughly 3×4 inches in size.
- Fill and Seal: Place a spoonful of strawberry preserves in the center of half of the dough rectangles. Top each filled rectangle with a plain rectangle. Press the edges together to seal, then crimp the edges with a fork to ensure they stay closed during baking.
- Bake: Arrange the sealed pop-tarts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Ice and Decorate: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar with 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk until smooth to create the glaze. Drizzle the icing evenly over the cooled pop-tarts. If desired, sprinkle red sanding sugar on top for a decorative, festive finish. Let the icing set before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the butter and water are very cold to help create a flaky crust.
- Don’t overfill the pop-tarts to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- Allow the pop-tarts to cool completely before glazing to avoid melting the icing.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- You can substitute strawberry preserves with any other fruit jam or preserves you prefer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast Pastry
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
