Poptart Cookie Bars Recipe

There is something utterly joyful about combining two classic treats into one heavenly dessert, and that’s exactly what the Poptart Cookie Bars Recipe delivers. Imagine biting into buttery, tender cookie layers enveloping a luscious strawberry preserve heart, all crowned with a sweet, glossy glaze and a burst of colorful sprinkles. This recipe captures the nostalgic charm of your favorite pop tart but in bar form, perfect for sharing at parties, lunchboxes, or whenever a sweet craving strikes. The balance between soft, chewy cookie dough and fruity jam filling is simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these Poptart Cookie Bars lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the creamy butter that creates that melt-in-your-mouth texture, to the strawberry preserves that add a vibrant fruity punch. The powdered sugar glaze isn’t just for looks – it offers a smooth, sweet finish that pulls everything together beautifully.

• Unsalted Butter (½ cup, room temperature): The rich base that ensures the cookie bars are soft and tender.
• Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Adds sweetness and helps create a perfect crumb texture.
• Large Eggs (2, room temperature): Bind the ingredients and add moisture.
• Vanilla Extract or Vanilla Bean Paste (1 tsp): Provides warm, aromatic flavor that deepens the taste.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 ½ cups + 2 tbsp): The foundation that gives structure to the cookie dough; measuring accurately is key!
• Fine Sea Salt (½ tsp): Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
• Baking Soda (½ tsp): Helps the cookie bars rise just enough for a soft yet sturdy texture.
• Strawberry Preserves (⅔ cup): The star filling offering a burst of sweet, tangy fruitiness.
• Powdered Sugar (1 cup): The base of a smooth, glossy glaze for that sweet finishing touch.
• Whole Milk (1 ½ – 2 tbsp): Thins the glaze to a perfect pourable consistency.
• Vanilla Extract (½ tsp): Adds depth and aroma to the glaze.
• Rainbow Sprinkles: For a festive, colorful decoration that makes these bars pop!

How to Make Poptart Cookie Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Pan and Preheat Oven

Line an 8×8 inch metal baking pan with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over the sides for easy removal later. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready exactly when you need it, ensuring even baking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer, blend the unsalted butter and granulated sugar for about 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air bubbles, giving your bars a tender crumb.

Step 3: Mix in Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat on medium speed just until combined, making sure not to overmix—this keeps the dough soft and luscious.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

Gradually blend in the all-purpose flour, fine sea salt, and baking soda. Stir the mixture until the dough starts to come together in a soft, cohesive ball. This stage builds the structure without toughening the dough.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough and refrigerate for 20 minutes. Chilling firms it up, making it easy to handle and press into the pan without sticking to your hands.

Step 6: Press First Layer of Dough

Divide the chilled dough in half. Press one half evenly into the prepared pan using your fingers or the back of a spoon. This layer forms the bottom of your cookie bars, so smooth it out well.

Step 7: Freeze First Layer

Carefully lift the parchment paper with the pressed dough and place it on a baking sheet. Pop it into the freezer to chill while you prepare the next layer. This step ensures the layers stay distinct and bake perfectly.

Step 8: Prepare Second Layer in Pan and Add Preserves

Line the baking pan again with fresh parchment. Press the remaining cookie dough half evenly into the pan. Then gently spread the strawberry preserves over this dough layer, creating that delicious fruity center.

Step 9: Top with Frozen Dough Layer

Peel the parchment off the frozen dough layer and place it carefully over the preserves layer in the pan. Press down gently but firmly to seal the layers together, trapping that jam in between the soft dough.

Step 10: Bake

Pop the assembled pan into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 28 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the kitchen smells incredible.

Step 11: Cool and Unmold

Allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, use the parchment paper edges to lift them out of the pan, then flip the bars upside down so the bottom becomes the top—this gives a smooth surface for glazing.

Step 12: Prepare Glaze and Decorate

Whisk together powdered sugar, whole milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Pour the glaze evenly over the inverted bars and immediately sprinkle generously with rainbow sprinkles for a fun, festive finish.

Step 13: Set and Serve

Let the bars sit at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours until the icing has set solid. Then slice into 15 generous bars and get ready for pure cookie-licious joy.

How to Serve Poptart Cookie Bars Recipe

Garnishes

While the rainbow sprinkles add a playful pop of color, you can also consider dusting a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for a subtle elegance or dashing a few fresh berries alongside for that fruity boost. Whipped cream or a dollop of vanilla ice cream also complements these bars exquisitely.

Side Dishes

These bars pair wonderfully with a cozy cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness. For a brunch spread, serve them with fresh fruit salads or yogurt parfaits for a well-rounded, delightful meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the bars into bite-sized squares for a party platter, or stack them on a cake stand layered with parchment for an extra special occasion. You can even drizzle some melted chocolate over the glaze before the sprinkles set for a decadent twist that’ll wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once glazed and set, store your Poptart Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They keep their softness and flavor best for up to 3 days, making them perfect to prepare a day in advance.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these bars later, freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag. Frozen bars maintain their quality for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.

Reheating

For that fresh-from-the-oven warmth, reheat sliced bars gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds. This warms the cookie and brings back a fudgy softness, making every bite delightful.

FAQs

Can I use a different fruit preserve for the filling?

Absolutely! While strawberry preserves are classic, raspberry, blueberry, or apricot jam all work beautifully and give your bars a unique twist. Just make sure the preserve isn’t overly runny for easier layering.

Is it necessary to chill the dough before pressing it into the pan?

Yes, chilling the dough helps it firm up, making it easier to handle and preventing it from sticking to your fingers. It also helps the bars bake evenly with distinct layers.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but be mindful that texture might vary slightly. Look for blends that include xanthan gum to maintain the dough’s structure.

What’s the best way to cut the bars without cracking the glaze?

Use a sharp, serrated knife and wipe it clean between cuts. Cutting when the glaze has fully set and the bars are completely cool gives cleaner slices and prevents crumbling.

How long does it take for the glaze to set?

Allow about 1 to 2 hours at room temperature for the glaze to harden completely. This ensures the sprinkles stick and the glaze won’t be sticky to the touch.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to delight both your taste buds and your loved ones, the Poptart Cookie Bars Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. With its perfect balance of buttery cookie, fruity jam, and sweet glaze sprinkled with color, it brings back nostalgic memories while feeling wonderfully fresh. Don’t hesitate to make a batch – these bars are guaranteed to bring smiles at every bite!

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