Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for our flaky pastry.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the dough.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed: This is essential for that flaky texture. Use vegan butter if you need a dairy-free option.
- 6–8 tablespoons cold water: Helps bind the dough together.
For the Filling
- 1 cup fruit preserves or jam: Choose your favorite flavor—strawberry, raspberry, or blueberry work great. For chocolate lovers, you can use Nutella or chocolate ganache.
- Optional: A sprinkle of cinnamon or vanilla extract for added flavor.
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For sweetness and to create a glossy finish.
- 2–3 tablespoons milk or almond milk: To achieve the desired consistency for the glaze.
- Food coloring (optional): Use black or purple to enhance the Halloween theme.
- Sprinkles or edible glitter: For that festive touch!
Instructions
Making the Dough
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. This ensures even distribution of all the dry ingredients.
- Cut in the Butter: Add the chilled, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving a flaky texture.
- Add Cold Water: Gradually add the cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. You want it to be moist but not sticky.
- Chill the Dough: Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the butter solidify and makes rolling easier.
Assembling the Coffin-Shaped Pop-Tarts
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot when the Pop-Tarts go in.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a coffin-shaped cookie cutter (or a template) to cut out shapes. You should have two pieces for each Pop-Tart.
- Add the Filling: Place half of the cutouts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon about a tablespoon of your chosen filling onto the center of each dough piece, leaving a border around the edges.
- Seal the Pop-Tarts: Place the remaining cutouts on top of the filled pieces. Gently press down around the edges to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges for an extra decorative touch.
- Make Air Vents: Use a sharp knife to cut small slits in the top of each Pop-Tart. This allows steam to escape while baking.
Baking
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!
- Cool the Pop-Tarts: Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before glazing.
Making the Glaze
- Prepare the Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth. If desired, add food coloring to create a spooky hue.
- Glaze the Pop-Tarts: Once the Pop-Tarts have cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. You can also dip them for a thicker coating.
- Add Sprinkles: While the glaze is still wet, sprinkle on some Halloween-themed sprinkles or edible glitter for a festive touch.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Baking Time: 30 Minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 Coffin-Shaped Pop-Tarts
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 2g