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Strawberry Pop Tart Cookie Bars

Delightful cookie bars blending crispy crust with fruity strawberry jam filling, reminiscent of childhood pop tarts.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Cookie Base
  • 1 cup butter, softened Ensure butter is softened (not melted) for best texture.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs Add one at a time.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour Can substitute with gluten-free blend.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Filling and Toppings
  • 1 cup strawberry jam Other fruit jams can be used as substitutes.
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar For glaze.
  • 2 tablespoons milk For glaze.
  • to taste Sprinkles For topping.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
  3. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract.
  4. In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  5. Line a 9x13 baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
  6. Press about 2/3 of the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer.
  7. Spread the strawberry jam over the base, leaving a small border around the edges.
  8. Crumble the remaining dough over the strawberry jam layer.
Baking
  1. Bake the dish for 25-30 minutes, or until the bars are golden brown.
  2. Allow the bars to cool completely in the dish before lifting using the parchment overhang.
  3. Mix powdered sugar and milk to create a glaze, then drizzle it over the cooled bars. Finish with sprinkles.

Notes

Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Freeze for longer storage—up to three months. Reheat in the microwave or oven.