Homemade Pop Tarts Pin with text overlay - 1

If you’re a fan of nostalgic breakfasts with a homemade twist, these Homemade Pop Tarts are calling your name. Flaky, buttery pastry filled with your favorite jam or fruit filling and topped with a sweet glaze, these Poptarts are next-level delicious. They’re fun to make, easy to customize, and a hit with both kids and adults alike!

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Why You’ll Love This Brilliant Breakfast Recipe

  • Simple Ingredients. Made with pantry staples. Nothing artificial here!
  • Customizable. Choose your favorite fillings and glazes for a personalized breakfast treat.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly. Prepare in batches and freeze for quick, on-the-go mornings.
  • Better Than Store-Bought. Flakier, tastier, and way more satisfying.

Whether you’re baking with kids or prepping breakfast for the week, these pop tarts are the perfect combination of fun and flavor.

Are Homemade Pop Tarts Good?

Absolutely! Homemade pop tarts are on another level compared to the boxed kind. They have real fruit flavor, a tender, buttery crust, and you get to control the sweetness and ingredients.

These are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a nostalgic dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For The Pastry Dough

  • 1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour - The foundation of the dough. It provides structure and stability, allowing the pop tarts to hold their shape while baking.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter - Adds richness and creates flaky layers. The cold butter melts during baking, producing steam that makes the pastry tender and crisp.
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar - Adds a touch of sweetness to the pastry and helps it brown evenly.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt - Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor of the butter and flour.
  • 1 Egg - The egg yolk (used in the dough) helps bind the ingredients and adds richness, while the egg white is often brushed on top of the pastries before baking for a golden finish.
  • 3 tablespoons Milk - Moistens the dough just enough to bring it together, keeping it soft and pliable without becoming sticky.

Filling

  • 1/2 cup Strawberry Jam - Provides the fruity, sweet center of the pop tarts. The jam thickens slightly as it bakes, creating that classic gooey filling.

For The Glaze

  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar - Forms the base of the glaze, adding sweetness and a smooth texture.
  • 2 tablespoons Milk - Thins the glaze to a pourable consistency while adding a creamy finish.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract - Enhances the flavor of the glaze, adding a hint of warmth and depth.
  • Sprinkles - Optional but classic! Add color, texture, and fun visual appeal to the finished pop tarts.

How To Make Homemade Pop Tarts

  1. Make the Dough. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter (or your hands) to mix until crumbly. Add the egg and a tablespoon of milk or water at a time, mixing just until the dough comes together. Divide into two disks, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
  2. Roll & Cut. Preheat the oven to 375°F. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough disk into a rectangle about 1/8-inch thick. Cut into evenly sized rectangles (about 3x4 inches).
  3. Add the Filling. Place half the rectangles on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of jam to the center of each. Top with the remaining dough rectangles. Press edges with a fork to seal, and poke a few holes in the top for steam.
  4. Bake. Brush each pop tart with a beaten egg. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely before icing.
  5. Glaze and Decorate. Whisk powdered sugar, a splash of milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze. Spread over cooled pop tarts and top with sprinkles if using. Let glaze set for 15 minutes before serving.
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Tips And Tricks

Making homemade Pop Tarts is a fun and rewarding baking project—but a few smart techniques can take them from good to bakery-quality. Here are the best tips and tricks for making them:

  • Keep it Cold. Cold butter = flakier pastry. Chill the dough and don’t overwork it.
  • Don’t Overfill. It’s tempting, but too much filling can cause the tarts to leak.
  • Seal Well. Use a fork and press tightly around the edges to prevent any leaks.
  • Let Them Cool. Glaze sticks best to a fully cooled pop tart.

Variations

Homemade Pop Tarts are incredibly versatile and easy to customize based on your favorite flavors and dietary needs. Here are some fun and delicious variations for making them that go beyond the classic fruit-filled version:

  • Brown Sugar Cinnamon. Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and a touch of flour for the filling.
  • Nutella or Chocolate. Swap fruit jam for a chocolatey center.
  • Savory. Use cheese, scrambled eggs, or ham for a breakfast twist (skip the glaze).
  • Fruity Glaze. Add a bit of jam or fruit juice to the glaze for extra color and flavor.

What To Enjoy With Homemade Pop Tarts

Homemade Pop Tarts are a delightful treat all on their own, but pairing them with the right sides or drinks can elevate your breakfast or snack time experience. Whether you’re going for cozy comfort or a balanced spread, here are some delicious ideas for what to enjoy with them:

  • Fruit Salad - A refreshing side that balances the sweetness.
  • Yogurt Parfait - Adds creaminess and extra protein to your breakfast .
  • Coffee or Tea - A warm beverage pairs beautifully with these pastries.
  • Scrambled Eggs - For a more complete, satisfying meal.

How Long Do They Last?

Homemade pop tarts can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days, making them perfect for enjoying fresh throughout the week.

If you’d like them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just make sure they’re completely cooled and sealed well to maintain freshness and prevent the pastry from becoming soggy.

Can You Freeze Them?

Yes! Freeze baked but unglazed pop tarts in a single layer on a sheet tray. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. When ready to eat, warm in the oven or toaster and glaze fresh.

More Sweet Treats

  • Grilled Pineapple
  • Coffee Mug Cake
  • Apple Upside Down Cake
  • Chocolate Cobbler
  • Cookie Dough Bites
Homemade Pop Tarts Pin with text overlay - 4 Overhead image of Homemade Poptarts on a wire rack - 5

Homemade Pop Tarts Recipe | Make Poptarts At Home

Ingredients

For The Pastry

  • ▢ 1 1/2 cups All Purpose Flour
  • ▢ 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter , cold and cubed
  • ▢ 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar
  • ▢ 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
  • ▢ 1 Egg , divided
  • ▢ 3 tbsp Milk

For The Glaze

  • ▢ 1 cup Powdered Sugar
  • ▢ 2 tbsp Milk
  • ▢ 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • ▢ Sprinkles , for Garnish

Filling

  • ▢ 1/2 cup Strawberry Jam

Instructions

  • Make the Dough. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter (or your hands) to mix until crumbly. Add the egg and a tablespoon of milk or water at a time, mixing just until the dough comes together. Divide into two disks, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
  • Roll & Cut. Preheat the oven to 375°F. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough disk into a rectangle about 1/8-inch thick. Cut into evenly sized rectangles (about 3x4 inches).
  • Add the Filling. Place half the rectangles on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of jam to the center of each. Top with the remaining dough rectangles. Press edges with a fork to seal, and poke a few holes in the top for steam.
  • Bake. Brush each pop tart with a beaten egg. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely before icing.
  • Glaze and Decorate. Whisk powdered sugar, a splash of milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze. Spread over cooled pop tarts and top with sprinkles if using. Let glaze set for 15 minutes before serving.

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Homemade Pop Tarts Recipe | Make Poptarts At Home

Ingredients

For The Pastry

  • 1 1/2 cups All Purpose Flour
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter cold and cubed
  • 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar
  • 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
  • 1 Egg divided
  • 3 tbsp Milk

For The Glaze

  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar
  • 2 tbsp Milk
  • 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • Sprinkles for Garnish

Filling

  • 1/2 cup Strawberry Jam

Instructions

  • Make the Dough. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter (or your hands) to mix until crumbly. Add the egg and a tablespoon of milk or water at a time, mixing just until the dough comes together. Divide into two disks, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
  • Roll & Cut. Preheat the oven to 375°F. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough disk into a rectangle about 1/8-inch thick. Cut into evenly sized rectangles (about 3x4 inches).
  • Add the Filling. Place half the rectangles on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of jam to the center of each. Top with the remaining dough rectangles. Press edges with a fork to seal, and poke a few holes in the top for steam.
  • Bake. Brush each pop tart with a beaten egg. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely before icing.
  • Glaze and Decorate. Whisk powdered sugar, a splash of milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze. Spread over cooled pop tarts and top with sprinkles if using. Let glaze set for 15 minutes before serving.

Homemade Pop Tarts Recipe | Make Poptarts At Home https://twosleevers.com/homemade-pop-tarts-recipe/

Sausage Spaghetti Pin with text overlay - 9

If you love hearty, savory, and flavorful pasta dishes, this Sausage Spaghetti recipe is for you! Combining the richness of Italian sausage, the sweetness of marinara sauce, and the depth of garlic, this dish is a comfort food classic that’s perfect for any occasion.

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Why You’ll Love This Perfect Pasta Dish

  • Quick & Easy . Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
  • Flavorful . The Italian sausage adds a rich, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the tangy marinara sauce.
  • Comforting . A warm, satisfying dish that everyone will love.
  • Affordable . Made with simple ingredients that won’t break the bank.
  • Customizable . You can make it mild or spicy, depending on your taste.

Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this easy-to-make pasta will quickly become a favorite.

What Does Sausage Spaghetti Taste Like?

Sausage Spaghetti is a flavor-packed dish that balances the savory, slightly spicy sausage with the sweetness and acidity of marinara sauce.

The spaghetti itself is coated in a rich, garlicky sauce, with the sausage adding a meaty bite that’s perfectly complemented by the tang of the tomatoes.

The dish has a wonderful depth of flavor, with the spices and herbs in the sausage creating a hearty base, while the pasta brings a satisfying texture.

What Kind Of Sausage Should You Use For Spaghetti?

For spaghetti, Italian sausage is the best choice because it adds rich, savory flavor and a hint of spice that perfectly complements tomato-based sauces.

You can use mild Italian sausage for a more traditional, herby taste or spicy Italian sausage if you prefer a little heat. It’s available in both ground form and links. Just remove the casing if using links.

Pork sausage is most common, but you can also use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option while still keeping that delicious Italian flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 pound Ground Italian Sausage - The main protein in the dish, adding rich, savory flavor and a touch of spice that infuses the sauce with depth.
  • 1 pound Spaghetti Noodles - Serves as the hearty base of the dish, perfectly capturing the sauce and sausage for a satisfying, classic pasta experience.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil - Used for sautéing the garlic and browning the sausage, adding richness and helping the flavors meld together.
  • 3 cloves Garlic - Provides a fragrant, savory aroma and enhances the flavor of the sauce with a subtle sharpness.
  • 24 ounces Marinara Sauce - The flavorful tomato base that ties the whole dish together, coating the pasta and sausage with a smooth, tangy sauce.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes - Adds a gentle heat and a little extra kick, especially if using mild sausage.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt - Balances the acidity of the marinara and enhances all the flavors in the dish.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper - Contributes a light, earthy spice that complements the sausage and sauce.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese - Adds a nutty, salty richness and helps thicken the sauce slightly while coating the noodles beautifully.
  • Basil - Provides a fresh, aromatic finish and a pop of color that enhances both the flavor and presentation.

How To Make Sausage Spaghetti

  1. Cook the Pasta . Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about a cup of pasta water for later if needed to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
  2. Brown the Sausage . In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook the sausage until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
  3. Sauté the Garlic . Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage, and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  4. Add the Marinara Sauce . Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the sausage and garlic. Stir to combine, making sure the sausage is well-coated with the sauce. Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using), to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. If the sauce is too thick, you can add some reserved pasta water.
  5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce . Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss the pasta in the sauce, ensuring each strand is coated in the delicious, meaty sauce. Continue to toss until the pasta is mixed with the sauce.
  6. Serve and Garnish . Divide the pasta into serving plates. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top and garnish with fresh basil. Serve immediately and enjoy!
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Tips And Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the perfect Sausage Spaghetti:

  • Use Freshly Grated Parmesan . Fresh Parmesan has a better flavor and melts more smoothly compared to pre-grated cheese.
  • Season the Pasta Water . Salt the water generously before cooking the pasta. This helps to flavor the pasta from the inside out.
  • Choose Your Sausage Wisely . Use high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor. You can choose mild or spicy sausage, depending on your preference.
  • Let the Sauce Simmer . Allowing the sauce to simmer for a few minutes helps to bring all the flavors together, creating a richer, more flavorful sauce.

Variations

While this sausage spaghetti recipe is already packed with flavor, here are some fun variations you can try:

  • Sausage and Peppers - Add sautéed bell peppers and onions to the sauce for a sweet and savory twist.
  • Spicy - Use spicy Italian sausage and add extra red pepper flakes to turn up the heat.
  • Sausage and Mushroom - Add sliced mushrooms to the sauce for an earthy flavor that complements the sausage.
  • Cheesy - Stir in some ricotta or mozzarella cheese into the sauce for a creamy, cheesy version.

What To Eat With Sausage Spaghetti

Sausage spaghetti is a hearty meal on its own, but you can enhance it with a few side dishes to round out the meal:

  • Garlic Bread - Perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce.
  • Caesar Salad - A refreshing, crisp salad with a creamy dressing provides a great contrast to the rich spaghetti.
  • Roasted Vegetables - Roasted broccoli, carrots, or zucchini are great for adding a healthy element to your meal.

How Long Does It Last?

Sausage spaghetti is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Can You Freeze It?

Yes, you can freeze sausage spaghetti! To freeze, allow the pasta to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up in a skillet, adding a little pasta water or broth to help revive the sauce.

More Weeknight Meal Ideas

  • Tuna Wraps
  • Beef Fajitas
  • Cheeseburger Macaroni
  • Sheet Pan Pizza
  • Hawaiian Roll Sliders
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Sausage Spaghetti Recipe | Spagehtti With Italian Sausage

Ingredients

  • ▢ 1 pound Ground Italian Sausage , mild or spicy
  • ▢ 1 pound Spaghetti Noodles
  • ▢ 2 tbsp Olive Oil
  • ▢ 3 cloves Garlic , minced
  • ▢ 24 ounces Marinara Sauce
  • ▢ 1/2 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes , optional
  • ▢ 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
  • ▢ 1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper
  • ▢ 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese , grated
  • ▢ Basil , for garnish

Instructions

  • Cook the Pasta . Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about a cup of pasta water for later if needed to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
  • Brown the Sausage . In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook the sausage until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
  • Sauté the Garlic . Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage, and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  • Add the Marinara Sauce . Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the sausage and garlic. Stir to combine, making sure the sausage is well-coated with the sauce. Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using), to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. If the sauce is too thick, you can add some reserved pasta water.
  • Combine the Pasta and Sauce . Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss the pasta in the sauce, ensuring each strand is coated in the delicious, meaty sauce. Continue to toss until the pasta is mixed with the sauce.
  • Serve and Garnish . Divide the pasta into serving plates. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top and garnish with fresh basil. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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