Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Shortbread

Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Shortbread

16 servings
My absolute favorite pop tart flavor reinvented in this delicious brown sugar shortbread! Buttery shortbread is baked with a layer of brown sugar cinnamon in the center. It smells just like a freshly toasted brown sugar cinnamon pop tart, but tastes ten times better!

Ingredients

  • all purpose flour
    1 ½ c
  • almond flour
    1 c
  • kosher salt
    ½ tsp
  • unsalted butter

    room temp

    1 c
  • powdered sugar
    1 ½ c
  • egg
    1 large
  • vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
    1 tsp
  • light brown sugar
    1 c
  • cinnamon
    1 tbsp
  • all purpose flour
    2 tbsp
  • unsalted butter
    2 tbsp
  • pure maple syrup
    1 tbsp
  • powdered sugar
    ¾ c
  • cinnamon
    1 tsp
  • unsalted butter
    2 tbsp
  • pure maple syrup
    1 tbsp
  • milk

    room temp

    1 tbsp
  • Flaky sea salt

    for sprinkling

Directions

Shortbread

  1. 1

    Preheat the oven to 325F and coat a square 8×8 dish with nonstick spray and line all 4 sides with parchment paper, allowing it to hang over the edges of the pan for easy release.

  2. 2

    Trace a square outline of the pan on a separate sheet of parchment paper and set aside.

  3. 3

    In a medium bowl, whisk together the salt, almond flour, and flour. Set aside.

  4. 4

    In a large mixing bowl, using a hand or stand mixer with the paddle attachment, mix together the butter and sugar. Start on a low speed then slowly work your way up to prevent the sugar from flying out of the bowl.

  5. 5

    Once smooth and fluffy, mix in the egg and vanilla.

  6. 6

    Switch to a rubber spatula, add in the dry ingredients and mix by hand until combined. The consistency should be similar to mashed potatoes.

  7. 7

    Scoop half of the dough into the prepared baking pan and spread it even. I recommend using a small offset spatula or the back of a spoon to get it as even as possible.

  8. 8

    With the other half of the dough, spread it onto the sheet of parchment paper that we outlined earlier. Spread it to fit the square as best as possible.

Brown sugar cinnamon filling

  1. 1

    In bowl, combine all of the ingredients. It should resemble wet sand.

  2. 2

    Crumble and lightly press an even layer of the filling on top of the shortbread dough that’s inside the pan.

  3. 3

    Then carefully flip the parchment paper dough on top of the filling layer and peel back the paper. The dough my stick a bit, so use your offset spatula or a butter knife to scrape it away as you carefully peel the paper.

  4. 4

    Once all the paper is peeled back, the top layer of dough won’t be perfect so spread it as even as possible.

  5. 5

    Bake the shortbread for 40-45 minutes or until it’s evenly puffed and the edges are a light golden brown.

  6. 6

    Let the shortbread rest at room temperature for 30 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator to chill uncovered for about an hour.

Cinnamon maple icing

  1. 1

    Once the bars have chilled, make the icing.

  2. 2

    Whisk together all of the ingredients, starting with just 1 tablespoon of milk.

  3. 3

    If the icing appears too thick, mix in the additional tablespoon.

  4. 4

    The icing will set up quickly, so spread it on top of the shortbread as soon as you’re done mixing it.

  5. 5

    Top with a light sprinkle of sea salt, slice, and enjoy!

Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Shortbread

Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Shortbread

150 min16 servings

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About this Recipe

Indulge in Nostalgia with Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Shortbread

Get ready to rediscover your favorite childhood treat, but with an elevated, buttery twist! Our Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Shortbread takes everything you love about that iconic breakfast pastry – the warm, sweet, spiced aroma – and transforms it into an exquisite brown sugar shortbread experience. This isn't just any shortbread recipe; it's a nostalgic journey wrapped in a decadent, crumbly dessert.

Imagine a rich, tender cinnamon shortbread base, generously filled with a luscious layer of sweet, spiced brown sugar cinnamon. As it bakes, your kitchen will fill with an irresistible scent that perfectly mimics a freshly toasted brown sugar cinnamon Pop Tart, yet the taste is infinitely more sophisticated and satisfying. The secret lies in the perfect balance of crisp, buttery texture and that unmistakable cozy brown sugar and cinnamon warmth.

Why You'll Love This Pop Tart Shortbread

This Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Shortbread stands out because it marries simple, high-quality ingredients with a beloved flavor profile. The use of both all-purpose and almond flour creates an incredibly tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that is simply divine. The brown sugar filling, enhanced with a hint of maple syrup, truly captures the essence of a classic Pop Tart, while the flaky sea salt sprinkle (optional, but highly recommended!) adds a beautiful contrast that elevates every bite.

Tips for Perfect Pop Tart Shortbread:

  • Don't Overmix: For truly tender shortbread, mix until just combined. Overmixing can develop gluten, leading to a tougher texture.
  • Chill Thoroughly: Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing spread and ensuring your shortbread holds its shape and achieves that classic crumbly texture.
  • Even Layering: Spread the brown sugar cinnamon filling evenly between the shortbread layers for consistent flavor in every piece.

Whether you're looking for a unique dessert for a special occasion, a comforting treat for an afternoon tea, or simply a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth, this Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop Tart Shortbread recipe is sure to impress. It's a comforting classic reimagined, proving that some flavors are truly timeless.

Frequently Asked Questions