Homemade Strawberry Pop-Tarts Recipe

Homemade Strawberry Pop-Tarts are super easy to make, taste way better than store-bought, and save you money! You only need a few ingredients, and since you already plan to make jam, you’re halfway there! 🍓✨

Homemade Strawberry Pop-Tarts Recipe

Makes: About 6 Pop-Tarts

Ingredients:

🟢 For the Pastry:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold & cubed
• 2-3 tbsp ice-cold water

(💡 Shortcut: You can use store-bought pie crust if you don’t want to make the dough!)

🟢 For the Filling:

• ½ cup homemade strawberry jam
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, helps thicken)

🟢 For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp milk (or lemon juice for a tangy glaze)
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• (Optional: Red or pink food coloring for a classic look)
• (Optional: Sprinkles for fun!)

Instructions:

1. Make the Dough (or Use Pre-Made)

1️⃣ In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt.
2️⃣ Cut in cold butter (use a fork or pastry cutter) until it looks like coarse crumbs.
3️⃣ Slowly add ice water, 1 tbsp at a time, mixing until the dough sticks together.
4️⃣ Shape into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.

(Shortcut: Skip this step if using store-bought pie crust!)

2. Roll & Cut the Dough

1️⃣ Roll out dough on a floured surface into a ¼-inch thick rectangle.
2️⃣ Cut into 3x4-inch rectangles (you’ll need two per Pop-Tart).

3. Add the Filling & Seal

1️⃣ Mix strawberry jam & cornstarch in a bowl (this prevents leaking).
2️⃣ Spoon 1 tbsp of jam onto half of the rectangles, leaving space at the edges.
3️⃣ Place another rectangle on top, then press edges together with a fork.
4️⃣ Poke holes in the top with a fork (this helps steam escape).

4. Bake the Pop-Tarts

1️⃣ Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2️⃣ Place Pop-Tarts on a lined baking sheet.
3️⃣ Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown.
4️⃣ Let cool completely before adding the glaze.

5. Make the Glaze & Decorate

1️⃣ Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
2️⃣ If using food coloring, add a drop for a pink glaze.
3️⃣ Drizzle or spread the glaze on cooled Pop-Tarts.
4️⃣ Add sprinkles while the glaze is still wet.
5️⃣ Let set for about 15 minutes before eating!

Storage & Tips

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temp or 1 week in the fridge.
• Freeze unbaked Pop-Tarts and bake later! Just add 3-5 extra minutes in the oven.
• Reheat in the toaster (but be careful with the glaze melting).

Will This Save You Money?

Yes! A box of Pop-Tarts costs $3-4, but making your own:
✅ Costs less per Pop-Tart, especially if using homegrown strawberries!
✅ No preservatives or artificial ingredients.
✅ Tastes fresher & crispier!