Poptart Cookie Bars Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed about biting into a nostalgic breakfast treat reinvented as a cookie bar, then you’re going to adore this Poptart Cookie Bars Recipe. Each square combines buttery, soft cookie layers with a tart and sweet strawberry preserves center, topped with a glossy vanilla glaze and vibrant rainbow sprinkles that just scream celebration. It’s playful, comforting, and utterly addictive—the perfect crowd-pleaser that brings smiles and happy memories together in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating these Poptart Cookie Bars is surprisingly simple because every ingredient plays a vital role in shaping texture, flavor, and that irresistible look. From the creamy butter that adds richness to the strawberry preserves delivering just the right fruity punch, each element counts.

• Unsalted butter (½ cup, room temperature): Ensures a creamy base and tender crumb without extra saltiness.
• Granulated sugar (1 cup): Adds sweetness and helps the cookie dough brown beautifully.
• Large eggs (2, room temperature): Bind the dough and contribute to a chewy texture.
• Vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (1 teaspoon): Elevates the flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
• All-purpose flour (2 ½ cups + 2 tbsp): The sturdy structure behind these cookie bars, measured carefully to get that perfect tender bite.
• Fine sea salt (½ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances depth of flavor.
• Baking soda (½ teaspoon): Gives just enough lift to keep the bars soft but not cakey.
• Strawberry preserves (2/3 cup): The luscious, fruity center that makes these bars feel like a homemade pop tart.
• Powdered sugar (1 cup): For a silky, sweet glaze that sets up beautifully on top.
• Whole milk (1 ½ – 2 tablespoons): Thins the glaze to the perfect consistency for pouring.
• Vanilla extract (½ teaspoon): Added to the glaze to mirror the cookie dough’s inviting aroma.
• Rainbow sprinkles: For that joyful, colorful finishing touch that makes each bar feel festive.

How to Make Poptart Cookie Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Pan and Preheat Oven

Start by lining an 8×8 inch metal baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave enough overhang on the sides – this will make lifting your bars out a breeze later on. Preheat your oven to a toasty 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when your bars are assembled.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a stand mixer, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until they’re light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This step is crucial because that fluffy texture translates into a tender, melt-in-your-mouth bar once baked. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of your bowl for even mixing!

Step 3: Mix in Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs and vanilla extract to your creamed mixture and stir until just combined. Eggs bring moisture and structure, while vanilla injects that classic, comforting sweetness we all love.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

Slowly mix in the all-purpose flour, fine sea salt, and baking soda until your dough starts to hold together. The salt enhances the overall flavor while the baking soda keeps these bars perfectly soft rather than cakey.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Pop your dough into the refrigerator for 20 minutes. Chilling makes it easier to handle and helps your cookie bars maintain their shape when pressed into the pan.

Step 6: Press First Layer of Dough and Freeze

Divide your chilled dough in half. Press one half evenly into your lined baking pan, then carefully lift it with the parchment paper and place the dough on a baking sheet in the freezer. This quick freeze firms the dough, ensuring a crisp bottom layer once baked.

Step 7: Prepare Second Layer and Add Preserves

Replace your parchment strips in the pan and press the remaining half of the dough in evenly. Spread a generous, even layer of strawberry preserves over this dough—this jammy middle is what brings the signature Poptart vibe.

Step 8: Top with Frozen Dough Layer and Bake

Remove your frozen layer from the baking sheet, peel away the parchment, then gently place this layer on top of the preserves. Press firmly to seal the layers together, then bake for 25-28 minutes or until the top is a lovely golden brown.

Step 9: Cool, Invert, and Glaze

Allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack before using the parchment to lift them from the pan. Flip them so the bottom becomes the top—this flipping reveals a beautiful smooth surface perfect for your glaze. Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth, then pour over your bars and immediately sprinkle the rainbow sprinkles on top.

Step 10: Set and Serve

Let the glaze set for 1-2 hours at room temperature, then slice into 15 squares and prepare to wow everyone with this delightful twist on a classic treat.

How to Serve Poptart Cookie Bars Recipe

Garnishes

Rainbow sprinkles are the perfect way to brighten these bars, adding a playful pop of color that enhances both their taste and appearance. For an extra-special touch, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate.

Side Dishes

These cookie bars are wonderful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a cup of your favorite coffee or a cold glass of milk. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream to create a balanced, joyful spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting these bars into fun shapes with cookie cutters for themed parties or stack them on a pretty platter for a colorful dessert display. Wrapping individual bars in parchment paper makes them perfect for gifting or packing in lunchboxes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled and glazed, store your Poptart Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and soft for up to 3 days, making them ideal for whipping out as a quick treat any time you want.

Freezing

You can freeze unglazed cookie bars wrapped tightly in parchment and foil for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw completely at room temperature and add the glaze fresh, keeping the glaze bright and glossy.

Reheating

If you prefer warm bars, pop a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. The glaze will soften, and the strawberry filling becomes wonderfully gooey. Just be careful not to overheat so they keep their perfect texture.

FAQs

Can I use different jam flavors in the Poptart Cookie Bars Recipe?

Absolutely! While strawberry is classic and delicious, feel free to experiment with raspberry, apricot, or even blueberry preserves to make these bars your own.

Is it okay to use salted butter instead of unsalted?

You can use salted butter, but reduce the additional salt slightly so the bars don’t become too salty. Unsalted butter lets you control the salt level perfectly.

Why do I need to freeze the first dough layer?

Freezing helps the bottom layer stay firm and prevents the jam from soaking in too much, making the bars nicely layered rather than soggy.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum, you can enjoy this recipe with gluten-free ingredients. Just be mindful of brand-specific measurements for best results.

How long will leftovers keep if refrigerated?

Refrigerating these bars isn’t necessary, but if you do, wrap them well to prevent drying out. They’ll last up to 5 days, though room temperature storage usually keeps them soft and tender better.

Final Thoughts

This Poptart Cookie Bars Recipe is such a joyful treat, seamlessly blending childhood whimsy with grown-up flavors in a way that feels both nostalgic and new. I truly believe once you try baking them, they’ll become a fast favorite in your household or wherever you share them. So grab your ingredients and give this recipe a whirl—you’re in for a delightful, sprinkle-covered slice of happiness!

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