sourdough pop tarts

Sourdough pop tarts are a fun and delicious way to use your sourdough discard while making a flaky, tangy pastry filled with your favorite jam or filling. The sourdough adds a depth of flavor that makes these homemade pastries far better than the store-bought versions.

Sourdough Pop Tart Recipe

(Makes about 6-8 pastries)

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• ½ cup (120g) sourdough discard (unfed)
• 2 tablespoons cold milk or water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

For the Filling:

• ½ cup jam or preserves (strawberry, raspberry, or your favorite)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, helps thicken jam)

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon milk

For the Glaze (Optional):

• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

1️⃣ Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Add the cold butter and cut it into the flour using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in the sourdough discard, vanilla, and cold milk or water. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently just until it comes together.
5. Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight).

2️⃣ Assemble the Pop Tarts

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out one dough disc into a rectangle about ⅛ inch thick. Cut into 3×4-inch rectangles. Repeat with the second disc.
3. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of jam onto half of the rectangles, leaving a small border.
4. Place the remaining rectangles on top and press the edges together with a fork to seal.
5. Brush the tops with egg wash and prick with a fork to allow steam to escape.

3️⃣ Bake

1. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown.
2. Let cool completely before glazing.

4️⃣ Make the Glaze & Finish

1. Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
2. Drizzle or spread over the cooled pop tarts and add sprinkles if desired.

Tips & Variations:

• Flaky Pastry: Keep ingredients cold for the best texture.
• Savory Option: Fill with cheese, pesto, or even a ham and cheese combo!
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temp for 2 days or freeze for longer storage.