If you have a soft spot for nostalgic breakfast treats but want something a bit more wholesome and packed with protein, you are going to love this Protein Pop Tarts with Strawberry Jam and Vanilla Glaze Recipe. These homemade pop tarts capture the sweet, comforting flavors of classic toaster pastries with a nourishing twist. They are tender, filled with vibrant strawberry jam, and topped with a luscious vanilla glaze that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Plus, they give you a pleasant protein boost to start your day positively or to snack smart anytime.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that work beautifully together to create a tender pastry dough bursting with flavor, protein, and a touch of sweetness. Each component plays a vital role: from the wholesome whole wheat flour to the luscious strawberry jam and the creamy vanilla glaze.
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour: Provides a hearty, nutty base that’s great for nutrition and texture.
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder: Boosts the protein content while adding a subtle vanilla flavor to the dough.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance the flavors without overwhelming.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the dough rise lightly for a tender crumb.
- 1/4 cup applesauce: Adds moisture and natural sweetness while keeping the tarts soft.
- 1/4 cup neutral-flavored oil: Makes the pastry tender and perfectly flaky.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Lifts the overall flavor with warm vanilla notes.
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam: The star filling providing that classic fruity pop and juicy sweetness.
- 1 cup confectioners sugar (sugar-free or regular): For a smooth, sweet vanilla glaze finish.
- 1 cup vanilla protein powder (optional): Can be added to the glaze for an extra boost and flavor depth.
- 2 tablespoons milk or water (as needed): Helps create the perfect glaze consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla: Adds a lovely aromatic finish to the glaze.
How to Make Protein Pop Tarts with Strawberry Jam and Vanilla Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 170°C (325°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Starting with a warm oven ensures your pop tarts bake evenly and develop a delicate golden color.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, vanilla protein powder, sugar, and baking powder. This blend forms the structural backbone of your pop tarts, ensuring they hold their shape while remaining tender inside.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, stir the applesauce, neutral oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture integrates moisture and flavor that balances the dry ingredients beautifully, creating a dough that’s soft but manageable.
Step 4: Form the Dough
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms. If it feels a little dry, add 1-2 teaspoons of ice-cold water to bring it together. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic, and chill in the fridge for 15 minutes to make rolling easier.
Step 5: Roll and Cut the Pastry
Divide the dough into two equal parts. On a piece of parchment paper, roll out one portion of dough to about 1/8 inch thickness—thin enough for a delicate crust but sturdy enough for filling. Cut the dough into 8 rectangles using a pizza cutter or knife. Repeat with the other portion.
Step 6: Fill and Seal the Pop Tarts
Arrange one layer of rectangles on your baking tray. Spoon a generous dollop of strawberry jam onto the center of each rectangle, leaving a good border around the edges for sealing. Place the second rectangle on top and press the edges firmly. Use a fork to crimp and seal completely to avoid any oozing during baking.
Step 7: Bake
Pop your assembled tarts into the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes. Watch for a light golden hue forming on the pastry edges—this delicate color signals they are perfectly baked. Let them cool on a rack before glazing.
Step 8: Prepare and Apply the Vanilla Glaze
Whisk confectioners sugar, optional vanilla protein powder, vanilla extract, and milk (or water) together until smooth. Adjust the liquid to achieve a glaze that’s thick but spreadable. Once the pop tarts are cooled, spread the glaze evenly, leaving a little border to keep the glaze neat. Allow the glaze to set at room temperature.
How to Serve Protein Pop Tarts with Strawberry Jam and Vanilla Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
For a fun and festive finish, sprinkle colorful nonpareils or crushed freeze-dried strawberries over the glaze while it’s still wet. A light dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate also pairs wonderfully with the sweet strawberry and vanilla flavors.
Side Dishes
Serve these protein pop tarts alongside a small bowl of Greek yogurt or fresh berries for a balanced breakfast or snack. A warm cup of chai tea, coffee, or vanilla almond milk complements the sugary vanilla and strawberry notes beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the pop tarts diagonally to show off their jammy centers, stacking them on a rustic wooden board for a charming brunch display. Wrap individual tarts in parchment and tie with twine for a thoughtful breakfast gift or party favor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Protein Pop Tarts with Strawberry Jam and Vanilla Glaze Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them fresh and tender. For best texture, enjoy them within this timeframe.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead, freeze unglazed baked pop tarts wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw completely before glazing and serving for a fresh, just-baked experience.
Reheating
To warm your pop tarts, place them in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 150°C (300°F) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy and the glaze melt unevenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour?
Absolutely! While whole wheat flour gives a great nutty flavor and adds fiber, you can substitute with all-purpose flour for a lighter texture. Just keep in mind the overall nutritional profile will be slightly different.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the dough before rolling?
Yes, chilling the dough helps it firm up, making it much easier to roll out thinly and cut cleanly. It also enhances the final texture of the pastry, making it flakier.
Can I use any jam flavor instead of strawberry?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with raspberry, blueberry, or even apricot jam. The flavor of the filling can easily be customized to suit your preferences or seasonal fruit availability.
Is the vanilla protein powder in the glaze essential?
No, it’s optional but adds a nice boost of protein and an extra hit of vanilla flavor. You can leave it out or substitute with more confectioners sugar if you prefer a more classic glaze.
How do I keep the edges sealed during baking?
Press the edges firmly and use a fork to crimp all around the pop tarts before baking. This creates a tight seal that prevents the jam from leaking out while baking.
Final Thoughts
I hope you give this Protein Pop Tarts with Strawberry Jam and Vanilla Glaze Recipe a try because it’s truly a delightful way to bring together fun, flavor, and nutrition. Whether for a weekend brunch or a tasty snack, these homemade treats deliver that nostalgic goodness with an uplifting protein punch. Share them with friends, family, or savor them all to yourself—you deserve it!
Print
Protein Pop Tarts with Strawberry Jam and Vanilla Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Delicious and healthier Protein Pop Tarts made with whole wheat flour and vanilla protein powder, filled with strawberry jam, and topped with a smooth vanilla glaze. These homemade pastries offer a balanced combination of protein and flavor, perfect for breakfast or a nutritious snack.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 cup applesauce
- 1/4 cup neutral-flavored oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Filling
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam
Glaze
- 1 cup confectioners sugar (sugar-free or regular)
- 2 tablespoons milk or water (as needed)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1 cup vanilla protein powder for glaze (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 170°C (325°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. This prepares the baking surface and ensures even cooking.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, vanilla protein powder, sugar, and baking powder until well combined.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, mix the applesauce, neutral-flavored oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and evenly blended.
- Form the Dough: Add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add 1-2 teaspoons of ice-cold water. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up.
- Roll and Cut the Pastry: Divide the chilled dough into two equal portions. Roll out one portion between two sheets of parchment paper to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a pizza cutter to cut into 8 rectangles. Repeat with the second portion.
- Fill the Pastry: Arrange the dough rectangles on the prepared tray, and place a generous spoonful of strawberry jam in the center of each rectangle, leaving a border around the edges to seal.
- Assemble and Seal: Top each jam-filled rectangle with another dough rectangle. Press down the edges firmly with your fingers, then use a fork to crimp and seal all around to prevent filling leakage.
- Bake the Pop Tarts: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes until the pastry turns light golden brown. Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Glaze: Whisk together the confectioners sugar, milk or water, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. If using protein powder for the glaze, mix it in now. Adjust consistency with additional liquid as needed.
- Glaze and Decorate: Spread the glaze evenly over the cooled pop tarts, leaving a small border uncoated around the edges. Optionally, decorate with sprinkles. Let the glaze set at room temperature before serving.
Notes
- If the dough feels sticky while rolling, lightly dust the parchment paper or rolling pin with flour.
- You can substitute the strawberry jam with other fruit preserves or nut butters for variety.
- For a lower sugar version, use sugar-free jam and powdered sugar substitute in the glaze.
- Store the pop tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Use cold water sparingly when forming dough to avoid a tough pastry.
