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Pop Tart Cookie Bars

Soft, chewy cookie bars layered with fruity jam and topped with creamy vanilla icing for a nostalgic bakery-style dessert.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 28 minutes
Total Time 48 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Autumn
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cookie Batter
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 0.5 tsp baking soda
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 0.5 tsp nutmeg
  • 0.25 tsp cloves optional
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 0.75 cup brown sugar packed
  • 1 egg large
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 0.75 cup apple cider
Filling
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1.5 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2-3 tbsp cream or milk

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
  3. In another bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
  4. Gradually mix in dry ingredients, alternating with apple cider, until a soft batter forms.
  5. Spread half the dough into a lined baking pan and add a layer of fruit jam.
  6. Add remaining dough on top and bake 25–30 minutes until golden and set.
  7. Beat softened butter with powdered sugar and vanilla. Add cream to reach desired filling consistency.
  8. Frost cooled bars, slice, and serve.

Notes

Best served fully cooled for clean slicing. Use thick jam for best layering results.