Easy Apple Cinnamon Pop Tarts (Better Than Store-Bought)
These easy Apple Cinnamon Pop Tarts (Better Than Store-Bought) are simple to make and easier than you think. This recipe uses simple ingredients and comes together step by step without stress.
Servings: Pop Tarts
Equipment
- 1 baking sheet
- 1 roller pin
Ingredients
Apple filling
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 medium apple about 160 g / 5.5 oz, peeled and diced very smal. Best apples: Granny Smith for tart flavor or Honeycrisp for a sweeter filling.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pop-Tarts
- 2 store-bought pie crusts
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
Cinnamon frosting
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/16 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 380°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make the apple filling. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced apple, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples begin to soften.1 medium apple, 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/8 teaspoon salt
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water. Stir it into the apples and cook for 30–60 seconds, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract. Let the filling cool completely.1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 tablespoon water, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Prepare the pastry. Lay the two pie crusts on a lightly floured surface so they slightly overlap by about 1 inch. Press the overlapping area together so the dough sticks. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into one large rectangle about 10 × 14 inches.2 store-bought pie crusts
- Using a knife or pizza cutter, trim the edges if needed so the rectangle is fairly even. Cut the dough into 8 equal rectangles (about 3 × 4 inches each).
- Place 4 rectangles on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them. These will be the bottom layers of the Pop-Tarts.
- Whisk together the egg and milk1 large egg, 1 tablespoon milk
- Spoon 1 to 1½ tablespoons of the cooled apple filling into the center of each bottom rectangle, leaving about ½ inch border around the edges. Lightly brush that border with egg wash to act as a seal.
- Place the remaining 4 rectangles on top of the filling to form the tops. Press the edges together gently, then seal them by pressing around the edges with a fork. Poke 3–4 small holes in the tops to allow steam to escape. brush the tops lightly with the egg wash.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, until the pastries are golden brown. Let them cool completely.
- Make the frosting. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth. Spread or drizzle the frosting over the cooled Pop-Tarts.3/4 cup powdered sugar, 1-2 tablespoons milk, 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/16 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Notes
Expert Tips
- Dice the apples very small so the filling sits flat inside the pastry
- Cook the filling ahead so it thickens and doesn’t soak into the crust
- Don’t overfill, or the edges of the Pop-Tarts may open while baking
- Press and seal carefully so the filling stays inside
- Add small holes on top to release steam and prevent bursting
Frequently Asked Questions
What apples are best for Apple Pop-Tarts?
Granny Smith apples are a great choice because they hold their shape and add a slight tartness. Honeycrisp also works well if you prefer a sweeter apple flavor.How do you keep homemade Pop-Tarts from leaking?
Leave space around the filling, seal the edges of the Pop-Tarts well, and use small holes on top to release steam. These steps make a big difference.How do I store homemade Pop-Tarts?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can refrigerate them for up to 5 days.Can homemade Pop-Tarts be frozen?
Yes, freeze them without frosting in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven, then add frosting once warm.Can I toast homemade Pop-Tarts?
You can warm them in a toaster oven if they are not heavily frosted. A regular toaster may melt the glaze too much.