Let’s be honest: store-bought pop tarts can be a letdown. You open the package, hoping for a sweet, flaky pastry, only to get a dry, thin crust with a disappointing smear of filling. That’s why making pop tarts with pie crust at home is a game-changer! These homemade pop tarts are buttery, crisp, and packed with flavor.
Whether you’re a fan of strawberry pop tarts, brown sugar cinnamon, or something unique, this homemade pop tarts recipe is foolproof. If you’re in the mood for more nostalgic treats, check out these Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies for another fun twist!
Why You Will Love These Homemade Pop Tarts
Why settle for store-bought when you can make pie crust pop tarts with simple ingredients?
- Super Easy to Make: No need for fancy pastry skills!
- Flaky, Buttery Texture: The pie crust gives these pop tarts a delicious crunch.
- Customizable Fillings: From strawberry pop tart flavors to Nutella, peanut butter, or fruit preserves.
- Perfect for Kids: Let them help with cutting, filling, and decorating.
- Generous Icing: Because no one wants a pop tart with barely any frosting!
For another flaky, delicious treat, check out these German Chocolate Cookies—rich, chocolatey, and oh-so-good!
Ingredients and Substitutions
Making homemade pop tarts requires just a handful of ingredients.
Pastry:
- 2 pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp milk or water
Filling:
- ½ cup strawberry jam (or any jam of choice)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, thickens the filling)
Icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk or heavy cream
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Sprinkles (optional, but fun!)
Need more icing-covered treats? Try The Best Spritz Cookies Recipe—perfect for holidays or just because!
Step-By-Step Instructions: How to Make Pop Tarts With Pie Crust
1. Roll Out the Pie Crust
If using store-bought crust, let it warm up for easier handling. Roll it out slightly on a floured surface to remove creases. If making homemade dough, roll it to about ¼ inch thick.
2. Cut Into Rectangles
Use a pizza cutter or knife to slice the dough into 3 x 4-inch rectangles. Keep them uniform to ensure even baking. Got extra scraps? Roll them out again and cut more shapes—no waste!
3. Add the Filling
Spoon about 1 ½ tablespoons of strawberry jam into the center of half the rectangles. Keep it away from the edges to prevent leakage.
4. Seal the Pop Tarts
Place another dough rectangle on top of the filled ones. Press the edges together with your fingers, then crimp them using a fork to fully seal.
5. Brush with Egg Wash
Whisk the egg and milk together, then lightly brush over the tops. This step makes your pie crust pop tarts golden and crispy.
6. Poke Holes & Bake
Use a fork to poke tiny holes in the top to let steam escape. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown.
How to Make the Icing
While your homemade pop tarts cool, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle or spread over the pastries and add sprinkles before the icing sets.
Love easy, no-fuss desserts? Check out these No Bake Peanut Butter Cookies—simple and satisfying!
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Don’t Overfill: Too much jam will ooze out when baking.
- Seal Properly: Press edges firmly and use a fork for double security.
- Cool Before Icing: If you ice them warm, the frosting will melt.
- Use a Pizza Cutter: It makes slicing the dough into rectangles easier.
Storage and Reheating Tips
How to Store Homemade Pop Tarts
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep in a sealed container for 4-5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze un-iced pop tarts for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat
- Oven: Bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Heat at 375°F for 2-3 minutes.
- Avoid the Toaster: The filling might leak out and make a mess.
Flavor Variations & Fun Twists
Bored of strawberry pop tarts? Try these creative flavors!
- Brown Sugar Cinnamon: Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter.
- S’mores: Fill with chocolate and marshmallows, then top with graham cracker crumbs.
- Lemon Curd: Bright and tangy for citrus lovers.
- Nutella & Banana: Chocolate and banana—a perfect match!
If you love seasonal treats, check out these Chocolate Peppermint Cookies—perfect for winter!
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
Can I use puff pastry instead of pie crust?
Yes, but expect a flakier, more croissant-like texture.
How do I prevent my pop tarts from leaking?
Don’t overfill, seal well, and use cornstarch to thicken jam.
Can I make these vegan?
Yes! Use a vegan pie crust and swap egg wash with almond milk.
What’s the best jam for homemade pop tarts?
Strawberry, raspberry, apricot, and blueberry all work great!
Can I freeze homemade pop tarts?
Absolutely! Freeze un-iced pop tarts, then bake or air fry from frozen.
Pop Tarts With Pie Crust
Ingredients
- 2 pre-made pie crusts store-bought or homemade
- 1 egg for egg wash
- 1 tbsp milk or water
- ½ cup strawberry jam or any fruit jam of choice
- 1 tbsp cornstarch optional, for thickening
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk or heavy cream
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Sprinkles optional
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll Out Dough: If using store-bought pie crust, let it come to room temperature and roll it out slightly to remove creases.
- Cut Rectangles: Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut dough into 3 x 4-inch rectangles.
- Add Filling: Spoon 1 ½ tablespoons of strawberry jam into the center of half the rectangles, leaving space around the edges.
- Seal the Pop Tarts: Place another dough rectangle on top of the filled ones. Press edges together and crimp with a fork.
- Brush with Egg Wash: Whisk egg and milk together, then lightly brush over the tops for a golden, crisp finish.
- Poke Holes & Bake: Use a fork to poke small holes in the top. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool & Ice: Mix powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk into a smooth icing. Spread on cooled pop tarts and add sprinkles.
Notes
- Don’t overfill! Too much jam will leak out while baking.
- Seal well! Crimp the edges tightly to prevent leaks.
- Cool before icing! If iced while warm, the glaze will melt into the crust.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temp for 2 days, refrigerated for 4-5 days, or frozen for 3 months.
There’s nothing like pop tarts with pie crust made fresh at home. They’re flaky, flavorful, and completely customizable. Whether you stick with a classic strawberry pop tart or try something new, this homemade pop tarts recipe is a must-try.
Hungry for more? Check out these German Chocolate Cookies—rich, chewy, and full of coconut goodness!
