Apple Pop Tarts

Makes 8 

For the Dough:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes

5-7 tablespoons ice water

For the Apple Filling:

2 medium apples (your favorite variety), peeled, cored, and diced small

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar

1 tablespoon apple cider (or milk)

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Make the Dough:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.

2. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Slowly add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough starts to come together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.

4. Divide the dough into two disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Apple Filling:

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.

2. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the apples are soft.

3. Stir in the vanilla extract and cornstarch slurry. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the filling thickens.

4. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.

Assemble the Pop Tarts:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about ⅛ inch thick.

3. Cut the dough into rectangles, approximately 3x4 inches.

4. Place half of the rectangles on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Spoon a small amount of the apple filling onto the center of each dough rectangle, leaving a small border around the edges.

6. Top with another rectangle of dough and press the edges together using a fork to seal.

7. Prick the top of each pop tart with a fork to allow steam to escape.

8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Make the Glaze:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, apple cider (or milk), and vanilla extract until smooth.

Glaze and Serve:

1. Once the pop tarts are cool, drizzle the glaze over the top.

2. Allow the glaze to set before serving.