Easy Homemade Pop Tarts with Pie Crust

There’s something magical about the smell of baked pastries wafting through the kitchen, especially when they’re the crispy, sweet treats known as pop tarts. These Easy Homemade Pop Tarts with Pie Crust come together in just over 30 minutes and deliver a delightful combination of flaky crust and vibrant jam filling. The use of pre-made pie crust ensures that the process is straightforward and quick, giving you more time to enjoy your delicious creations.

This recipe is perfect for busy parents looking to whip up a fun breakfast treat or for anyone craving a nostalgic snack. Whether you make them for a weekend brunch or a cozy afternoon indulgence, these pop tarts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for a couple of days in an airtight container.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The flaky pie crust provides a satisfying crunch.
• Homemade filling options allow for endless flavor combinations.
• Baking for just 12-15 minutes yields perfectly golden pastries.
• They’re fun to assemble, making it a great activity for kids.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to start making your pop tarts:

For the Dough

• 1 package rolled pie crust (I used a 2 ct. 7.5 oz pack)

For the Filling

• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons jam or preserves, your choice of flavor
• 1 large egg, for egg wash

For the Icing

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk or cream
• 2 tablespoons jam, for flavoring the icing
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Use your favorite jam for a unique twist!

Substitutions & Swaps

• Pie crust: Use homemade instead.
• Jam: Opt for peanut butter or Nutella.
• Milk: Substitute with non-dairy alternatives.
• Powdered sugar: Use granulated sugar for a crunchier icing.

How to Make It

Follow these steps to create your pop tarts.

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F.

Prepare the pastry

Lay a sheet of parchment on a baking sheet and unroll the crust onto another sheet of parchment. Cut out rectangles approximately 3 in by 5 in, using an index card as a guide if needed. Knead and roll out any leftover crust to make more rectangles.

Make the egg wash

Beat the egg in a small bowl to create the egg wash.

Assemble the pop tarts

Place 8 rectangles on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon 1 1/2 tablespoons of your chosen jam onto the center of each rectangle. Brush the edges of the bottom rectangle with the egg wash, then place a second rectangle on top. Pinch the edges to seal and crimp with a fork. Poke holes in the tops and brush with egg wash.

Bake the pop tarts

Continue assembling the remaining pop tarts. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Ice the pop tarts

After cooling, whisk together the icing ingredients and spread over each pop tart. Personalize them with sprinkles or toppings like crushed freeze-dried berries or rose petals.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Yes, you can freeze them for longer storage.
Reheat: Microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy warm.

Tips for Best Results

• Chill the pie crust briefly before cutting for easier handling.
• Don’t overfill with jam to prevent leaks during baking.
• Allow baking sheets to cool before placing additional pop tarts on them.
• Experiment with different jams or icing combinations for variety.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced snack.
• Pair with coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Enjoy as a fun dessert option at a gathering.