Homemade Poptarts

Author & Photographer: Nikki Kasal

Pop-Tarts remain quite possibly one of the most iconic snacks of the American childhood. From well-loved classics like cinnamon and strawberry to wild flavors like orange cream and chocolate banana split, this flaky pastry has been a lunchbox staple since its introduction by Kellogg in 1964. While it would admittedly be easier to stock up on a few boxes at any nearby grocery store, taking the time to make Pop-Tarts from scratch is a fun way to kill a few hours and try a unique take on a classic childhood snack. Best part is, you can decorate them however you want once they’re finished with food coloring and a few bottles of store-bought royal icing. 

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Ingredients: 

For the crust: 

• 2 cups flour

• 1 tbsp granulated sugar 

• 1 tsp salt 

• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

• 1 egg 

• 1 tbsp milk 

• (Alternatively: use pre-made frozen pie crust). 

For the filling: 

• ¾ cup jam (I used blueberry and strawberry) 

• 1 tbsp cornstarch 

• 1 tbsp water 

For the decoration: 

• Royal icing (can use store-bought, or mix ¾ powdered sugar, 1 tbs milk, and ¼ tsp vanilla extract to make your own) 

• Food coloring 

• Sprinkles 

Instructions:

For the pastry

1. In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter until it is in pea-size chunks. 

2. Whisk together the egg and milk in a small bowl and add to the dough. Mix together with a fork or your hands until everything is combined. You may need to knead it on a floured surface.

For the filling

1. Mix the cornstarch with the water. In a small pot on medium heat, add the cornstarch solution to the jam. Boil for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, and let cool. 

To assemble and bake

1. Roll out the dough on a flat surface and cut out 3x4’ rectangles by freehanding or using a cardboard template. 

2. Place half of the rectangles on a greased baking sheet. Add about a tablespoon of filling to the center of each rectangle, then place another rectangle on top. Use a fork to press the edges of the pastry together.

3. Poke a few holes in the top to allow steam to escape.

4. Bake at 350F for 25 to 30 minutes. 

For the icing

1. Mix the milk, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. If using store-bought icing, just empty into a small bowl. Mix with food coloring to achieve desired color. Wait until the pastries are completely cooled before decorating.