Name: Air Fryer Pop Tarts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 box refrigerated pie crust; ⅓ cup berry jam; 1 large egg; 1-½ cup powdered sugar; 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed); 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 drop pink food coloring (optional); 2 tablespoons sprinkles

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There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about the thought of indulging in a Air Fryer Pop Tarts. As a child, I remember the excitement of opening a box of sugary treats, each one promising a burst of flavor and a flaky, delicious crust. Now, thanks to my trusty air fryer, I can recreate this beloved snack right at home. The best part? These pop tarts come together quickly and easily, allowing you to enjoy that classic taste without the hassle of making everything from scratch. Imagine biting into a warm, freshly made pop tart, the jam oozing out, and the sweet frosting glistening on top. You can customize the fillings and toppings to suit your taste, making each batch uniquely yours. Whether it’s a cozy weekend morning or a treat after school, this recipe brings joy and comfort to any occasion.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
180 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
5 g

Tools Used:
Air Fryer

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Pop Tarts

Homemade Delight

There’s a certain joy that comes from making food from scratch, and with Air Fryer Pop Tarts, that joy multiplies. Not only do you get to create something delicious, but you also control the quality of the ingredients, ensuring that each bite is as good as it gets. The freshness of the dough combined with your choice of filling brings a homey touch that store-bought versions simply can’t compete with.

Quick and Easy

Who doesn’t love a recipe that’s quick to make? These pop tarts come together in no time, making them perfect for busy mornings or unexpected guests. With just a handful of ingredients and the air fryer, you’ll have golden, flaky pastries ready to delight your family and friends in less than thirty minutes.

Creative Customization

The beauty of Air Fryer Pop Tarts lies in their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different fillings like chocolate spread, fresh fruits, or even savory options! You can also play around with the frosting colors and sprinkles to create personalized treats for special occasions or themed parties.

Healthier Option

Using an air fryer makes these pop tarts a healthier option compared to traditional methods. The air fryer requires less oil, meaning you can enjoy your favorite treats without the guilt. Plus, you can substitute ingredients like sugar for healthier alternatives, making it easier to indulge responsibly.

Family Fun Activity

Making Air Fryer Pop Tarts is a fun activity to do with family or friends. Gather the kids and let them cut the dough and fill the pastries according to their preferences. This not only makes for a delicious snack but also creates lasting memories in the kitchen.

Recipe Ingredients for Air Fryer Pop Tarts

The ingredients for Air Fryer Pop Tarts are simple yet effective, combining to create a delightful treat. The key players like refrigerated pie crust provide the flaky exterior, while berry jam fills them with sweetness. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting that classic taste we all love.

1 box refrigerated pie crust (2 crusts): This forms the flaky base of your pop tarts, providing that beloved texture.
⅓ cup berry jam: Adds sweetness and fruity flavor, making each bite a treat.
1 large egg: Used to create an egg wash that gives the pop tarts a beautiful golden color once baked.

1-½ cup powdered sugar: This is essential for the sweet frosting that tops your pop tarts.
1-2 tablespoons milk, as needed: Helps achieve the right consistency for the frosting.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Adds a lovely depth of flavor to the frosting.

1 drop pink food coloring, optional: Great for adding a fun touch to your frosting.
2 tablespoons sprinkles: Perfect for decorating your pop tarts and making them visually appealing.

Recipe Directions for Air Fryer Pop Tarts

Creating Air Fryer Pop Tarts is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Let’s dive into the steps that will lead you to your freshly baked, golden pastries.

Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees F for 5 minutes. This ensures an even cooking temperature from the start.
Unroll the pie crusts onto a lightly floured surface and cut out as many 2×3 inch rectangles as you can—aim for about 6 per crust. This gives you the perfect shape for your pop tarts.
Gather any dough scraps and re-roll them to an ⅛ inch thickness. You can create additional rectangles by repeating this process, yielding about 4 more.

Take 2 teaspoons of jam and place it in the center of one rectangle. Then, lay another rectangle on top, sealing it within.
Pinch the edges to secure the filling, ensuring that none leaks out during cooking.
Using a fork, poke the top of the pop tart to create vents, which allows steam to escape as they cook. Then crimp the edges with the fork to ensure they are sealed well.

Repeat the process with the remaining rectangles until all pop tarts are prepared.
Beat the egg with a splash of water to create an egg wash. Brush this over the top of each pop tart for that lovely golden finish.
Carefully place a few pop tarts into the preheated air fryer, making sure not to overcrowd the basket. You may need to cook in batches.

Cook at 375 degrees F for 8 to 10 minutes or until the pop tarts are golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Once cooked, transfer the pop tarts to a wire rack and let them cool completely before frosting.
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of milk, vanilla extract, and food coloring. Adjust with more milk if the frosting is too thick.

Spread the frosting over the cooled pop tarts and top with sprinkles for a festive finish.
Allow the frosting to set for about 10 minutes before serving, ensuring a delightful crunch.

Things Worth Knowing

Air Frying Technique: Cooking at lower temperatures with an air fryer allows for a crispy exterior without the need for excess oil.

Sealing: Ensuring the edges are tightly sealed prevents the filling from escaping and keeps your pop tarts intact.
Frosting Variations: Experiment with different frosting flavors by adding cocoa powder or citrus zest for a unique twist.
Cooking in Batches: If you’re making a large quantity, cook in small batches for even results and to avoid overcrowding.

Helpful Notes about Air Fryer Pop Tarts

Here are some valuable tips to ensure your Air Fryer Pop Tarts turn out perfectly every time. These notes will help enhance your experience and improve results.

Storage: Keep leftover pop tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be refrigerated for longer shelf-life.
Freezing: You can freeze unbaked pop tarts for up to 2 months. Just thaw them before cooking as needed.

Pairing: Enjoy these pop tarts with a glass of milk or coffee for a delightful breakfast or snack.
Flavor Combinations: Don’t hesitate to mix different types of jams or even nut butters for a fun filling experience.
Presentation: For added fun, use colorful sprinkles or edible glitter to make your pop tarts stand out.

Serving Ideas for Air Fryer Pop Tarts

When it comes to serving your Air Fryer Pop Tarts, there are plenty of creative ways to enjoy them. These ideas will help you elevate your snack experience.

As Breakfast Treats: Serve warm pop tarts with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt for a well-rounded breakfast.
Lunchbox Surprise: These pastries make a great addition to kids’ lunchboxes, providing a sweet treat to brighten their day.

Weekend Brunch: Pair with coffee or tea for a delightful brunch item. Consider offering various fillings to impress guests.
Seasonal Decorations: Customize the toppings according to holidays or seasons—think red, white, and blue for the Fourth of July!
Picnic Perfect: These pop tarts are portable and ideal for picnics or road trips, bringing a taste of home wherever you go.

Frosted Variations: Offer different frosting styles, such as chocolate or lemon, to provide a range of flavors for everyone.

FAQ

Absolutely! If you prefer to make your own pie crust, it can add a wonderful homemade touch to your Air Fryer Pop Tarts. Just ensure that the dough is rolled out to the same thickness as the store-bought version for consistent baking. Homemade crusts can be flavored or adjusted as per your preference, enhancing the overall flavor of the pop tarts.

The filling for Air Fryer Pop Tarts is incredibly versatile. You can use any type of fruit jam or preserve, nut butters, chocolate spreads, or even a mix of sweet and savory fillings. For a fruity twist, try using apple or cherry pie filling. If you want something unique, consider filling them with a cheesecake mixture or even lemon curd. The possibilities are endless!

Your Air Fryer Pop Tarts are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Keep an eye on them as they cook, especially towards the end of the cooking time, as air fryers can vary in heat. If you see that lovely golden color and the edges look crisp, they’re likely ready to be taken out. Let them cool slightly before frosting.

Yes, you can definitely make Air Fryer Pop Tarts ahead of time. If you prepare them in advance, store uncooked pop tarts in the freezer. They can be kept for up to two months. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the air fryer directly from the freezer and they will turn out deliciously crisp!

Conclusion

The Air Fryer Pop Tarts are a delightful way to experience the nostalgic flavors of a childhood favorite. With a flaky crust and sweet filling, they’re sure to become a household favorite. I encourage you to try making these tasty pastries; you won’t be disappointed. They’re easy to customize, which makes them perfect for every occasion. So gather your ingredients and start creating your own delicious pop tarts today!

Air Fryer Pop Tarts

The ultimate comfort food, Air Fryer Pop Tarts bring nostalgia and deliciousness to your kitchen. Flaky, golden crusts filled with sweet jam and topped with creamy frosting make for the perfect treat. Easy and quick to prepare, you'll want to whip up a batch tonight!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Total Time 20

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

Air Fryer

Ingredients

1 box refrigerated pie crust
⅓ cup berry jam
1 large egg
1-½ cup powdered sugar
1-2 tablespoons milk as needed
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 drop pink food coloring optional
2 tablespoons sprinkles

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees F for 5 minutes. This ensures an even cooking temperature from the start.

Unroll the pie crusts onto a lightly floured surface and cut out as many 2×3 inch rectangles as you can—aim for about 6 per crust. This gives you the perfect shape for your pop tarts.
Gather any dough scraps and re-roll them to an ⅛ inch thickness. You can create additional rectangles by repeating this process, yielding about 4 more.
Take 2 teaspoons of jam and place it in the center of one rectangle. Then, lay another rectangle on top, sealing it within.

Pinch the edges to secure the filling, ensuring that none leaks out during cooking.
Using a fork, poke the top of the pop tart to create vents, which allows steam to escape as they cook. Then crimp the edges with the fork to ensure they are sealed well.
Repeat the process with the remaining rectangles until all pop tarts are prepared.

Beat the egg with a splash of water to create an egg wash. Brush this over the top of each pop tart for that lovely golden finish.
Carefully place a few pop tarts into the preheated air fryer, making sure not to overcrowd the basket. You may need to cook in batches.
Cook at 375 degrees F for 8 to 10 minutes or until the pop tarts are golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Once cooked, transfer the pop tarts to a wire rack and let them cool completely before frosting.
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of milk, vanilla extract, and food coloring. Adjust with more milk if the frosting is too thick.
Spread the frosting over the cooled pop tarts and top with sprinkles for a festive finish.

Allow the frosting to set for about 10 minutes before serving, ensuring a delightful crunch.

Notes

Storage: Keep leftover pop tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be refrigerated for longer shelf-life.
Freezing: You can freeze unbaked pop tarts for up to 2 months. Just thaw them before cooking as needed.

Pairing: Enjoy these pop tarts with a glass of milk or coffee for a delightful breakfast or snack.
Flavor Combinations: Don't hesitate to mix different types of jams or even nut butters for a fun filling experience.
Presentation: For added fun, use colorful sprinkles or edible glitter to make your pop tarts stand out.