If you have a soft spot for nostalgic breakfast treats with a fun twist, you are absolutely going to flip for this Homemade Giant Frosted Strawberry Pop Tart Recipe. Imagine the flaky, buttery layers of puff pastry hugging a luscious, thick strawberry jelly center, all topped off with a sweet, creamy glaze and a sprinkle of colorful joy. This oversized version of the classic toaster pastry isn’t just a snack – it’s a showstopper perfect for sharing or indulging all by yourself. Whether you’re craving something reminiscent of childhood or looking for a unique homemade dessert, this recipe hits all the right notes with incredible texture, rich flavors, and that perfect pop of strawberry sweetness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things deliciously simple with just a few essential ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building that perfect flaky texture and bright strawberry flavor. From buttery puff pastry sheets to sweet, tart jelly, and a luscious vanilla glaze, these basics come together to create a taste sensation you’ll want again and again.
- 2 sheets puff pastry: The star of the show, puff pastry brings a flaky, buttery base and top that bake to golden perfection.
- 1 cup strawberry jelly: For that fruity, sweet center, the strawberry jelly is thickened just right to avoid sogginess.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Added to the jelly to help it thicken and stay put inside the pastry layers.
- Small bowl of warm water: Key for sealing the pastry edges smoothly without tearing.
- 1 egg (for egg wash): A golden glaze for your crust that also acts like edible glue holding everything firmly together.
- 1 cup confectioners sugar: The base for the sweet frosting glaze that finishes the tart with a creamy sparkle.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and gloss to the frosting, enhancing its silky texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A fragrant note that lifts the icing to another level of deliciousness.
- 2 to 3 tablespoons milk: Used to thin the glaze to just the right consistency so it spreads smoothly without running.
- Sprinkles (for topping): Because what’s a giant frosted tart without a little colorful pizzazz on top?
How to Make Homemade Giant Frosted Strawberry Pop Tart Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Pastry and Jelly
Start by thawing out your puff pastry sheets according to package instructions while preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While the pastry softens, combine 1 cup of strawberry jelly with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken it up — this will keep the filling lovely and set during baking without oozing everywhere. Stir until smooth and set aside.
Step 2: Shape the Pastry Base
Once thawed, cut one sheet of puff pastry into three sections. Use a pizza cutter or knife to carefully slice off one third as a rectangle, then cut that rectangle in half, creating two smaller pieces. Arrange the large rectangle on a sprayed baking sheet, then overlap the two smaller pieces at one end to form one long rectangle. Wet your fingers with warm water and gently press the seams to seal and create one continuous piece. Trim edges as needed to fit your baking tray.
Step 3: Prepare the Top Pastry Layer
Repeat the exact cutting and shaping process with your second puff pastry sheet. This will become the lid for your strawberry pop tart, so keep it set aside until you’re ready to assemble the tart.
Step 4: Add the Strawberry Filling
Spoon the thickened strawberry jelly evenly down the center of the bottom pastry rectangle, leaving a clean border around the edges to ensure a good seal. You can adjust how much filling you spread depending on your preference for thick or thin jammy layers — this is your delicious canvas to customize!
Step 5: Seal and Decorate the Tart
Whisk your egg into a bowl for an egg wash, then brush it along the edges of the bottom pastry piece. Place the top pastry sheet carefully over the jelly-filled base, pressing down the edges firmly. Use the tines of a fork to crimp the sides all around, sealing in the strawberry layer beautifully. Don’t forget to poke small holes in the top pastry with a toothpick to allow steam to escape during baking, preventing unwanted bubbling.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide your assembled tart into the preheated oven for 15 minutes until the pastry puffs up and turns a gorgeous golden brown. Once baked, gently press the tart with a clean kitchen towel to deflate any air pockets and let it cool completely. This step guarantees a perfect flat surface for glazing later on.
Step 7: Whip Up the Frosting Glaze
While your tart cools, combine melted butter, confectioners sugar, and vanilla in a bowl. Slowly add milk, stirring until your glaze becomes thick yet spreadable—about 2 tablespoons usually do the trick. The glaze is what transforms this pastry from delightful to irresistible, so take your time perfecting it.
Step 8: Frost and Sprinkle Joy
Once fully cooled, generously spread the frosting over the top of your giant pop tart. Finish with a fun handful of sprinkles for that colorful, festive touch. Slice into six generous servings and prepare to impress every happy face at your table!
How to Serve Homemade Giant Frosted Strawberry Pop Tart Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up your giant pop tart with a few creative garnishes like fresh strawberry slices, edible flowers, or a light dusting of powdered sugar. These little extras turn an already delightful treat into a mini masterpiece and add a fresh burst of flavor and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Pair this sweet tart with a simple dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a tangy Greek yogurt to balance the sweetness. For a brunch spread, offer alongside scrambled eggs or crispy bacon to highlight the contrast of savory and sweet flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your homemade giant frosted strawberry pop tart into fun shapes using cookie cutters or serve it family-style on a vibrant platter for an eye-catching centerpiece. Stack smaller versions or accompany with fresh fruit skewers to create a whimsical dessert table that everyone will remember.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers tightly covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain that flaky pastry texture. If you live somewhere warm, refrigeration is fine but may slightly soften the crust.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers by wrapping individual slices in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to one month. To enjoy later, thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours before reheating or frosting.
Reheating
Reheat your tart slices in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 5-7 minutes to crisp up the pastry again without melting the frosting too much. Avoid microwaving, as it makes the crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use homemade jam instead of store-bought jelly?
Absolutely! Homemade jam works beautifully and adds a lovely fresh fruit flavor. Just be sure to thicken it slightly with cornstarch to prevent it from leaking during baking.
What if I don’t have puff pastry—can I use pie crust?
Pie crust is a workable substitute, but it won’t have the same flaky, airy layers puff pastry provides. Your tart will be a bit denser but still delicious.
How do I prevent my pop tart from puffing too much in the oven?
Pricking holes on the top pastry with a toothpick allows steam to escape and helps you avoid excessive puffing. Pressing gently with a towel right after baking also deflates any unwanted air pockets.
Is it possible to make this tart gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free puff pastry, you can keep this recipe gluten-free. Just check ingredient labels to make sure all components like jelly and sprinkles are free from gluten as well.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute the egg wash with plant-based milk or aquafaba, use dairy-free butter for the glaze, and choose a vegan puff pastry. The strawberry filling and sprinkles can be made vegan-friendly too with careful product selection.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something wonderfully joyful about biting into this Homemade Giant Frosted Strawberry Pop Tart Recipe—all the warm nostalgia amplified by fresh homemade goodness. Whether you’re sharing with friends or sneaking a slice for yourself, it’s a delightful treat that promises smiles and satisfied taste buds. Give it a try and watch this oversized pop tart become your new breakfast or dessert obsession!
Print
Homemade Giant Frosted Strawberry Pop Tart Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Homemade Giant Frosted Pop Tart is a delightful pastry treat made with flaky puff pastry filled with sweet strawberry jelly and topped with a smooth vanilla glaze and colorful sprinkles. Perfect for breakfast or a fun dessert, this recipe creates large, oven-baked pop tarts with a crisp exterior and a luscious fruity filling.
Ingredients
Pastry and Filling
- 2 sheets puff pastry
- 1 cup strawberry jelly
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- A small bowl of warm water
Egg Wash
- 1 egg
Glaze
- 1 cup confectioners sugar (powdered sugar)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- Sprinkles (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the puff pastry and jelly: Thaw puff pastry according to package instructions and preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In the meantime, in a small bowl, mix 1 cup of strawberry jelly with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch until well combined to thicken the filling.
- Cut and assemble base pastry: Once thawed, divide one sheet of puff pastry into three equal sections using a pizza cutter or knife. Take one third to form a rectangle, then cut the remaining two thirds in half to create two smaller rectangles. On a sprayed baking sheet, place the large rectangle, and overlap the two smaller rectangles slightly at the top end to form one long rectangle. Use warm water on your fingers to press and seal the seams together. Trim edges if necessary to fit your baking sheet.
- Prepare top pastry sheet: Repeat the same cutting and assembly process with the second sheet of puff pastry. Set aside for later use.
- Spread the jelly filling: Spread the thickened strawberry jelly evenly down the middle of the bottom pastry rectangle, leaving a border around the edges. You can adjust the amount to your preference for thickness.
- Apply egg wash: Beat the egg lightly in a small bowl and brush the edges of the bottom pastry around the jelly. This will glue the top pastry to the base while baking.
- Top and secure: Lay the second puff pastry rectangle on top of the jelly layer. Use a fork to press down around the edges creating indentations that seal the pastries together. Then, poke small holes on the top pastry surface using a toothpick to allow steam to escape during baking and avoid excess puffing.
- Bake the pop tart: Place the assembled pastry in the oven and bake at 400°F for 15 minutes until golden and puffed.
- Prepare the glaze: While baking, combine the melted butter, confectioners sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Gradually add milk one tablespoon at a time, stirring until you achieve a thick but spreadable consistency, around 2 tablespoons used.
- Cool and finish: Once baked, remove the pop tart from the oven and gently press down with a clean tea towel to release trapped air. Allow it to cool completely. Then spread the vanilla glaze evenly on top and sprinkle with colorful sprinkles.
- Serve: Cut into 6 servings and enjoy your homemade giant frosted pop tart fresh for breakfast or dessert.
Notes
- Make sure the puff pastry is properly thawed to avoid tearing when cutting and assembling.
- Pressing holes on top of the pastry before baking helps prevent excessive puffing.
- The jelly is thickened with cornstarch to prevent it from becoming too runny during baking.
- The glaze consistency should be thick but spreadable; add milk gradually.
- This recipe can be customized with different jelly or jam flavors according to your taste.
- Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to achieve clean edges and easy slicing after baking.
