Homemade Sourdough Pop Tarts

A summer spent berry-picking at local farms brings back some of my fondest memories. I can still picture those vibrant, plump strawberries we would toss into our baskets, each one bursting with sweet sunshine. Those strawberries would later transform into jars of rich preserves and delightful treats. Homemade sourdough pop tarts became our family favorite, combining the tang of fresh strawberries with a flaky, buttery crust.

Baking these pop tarts not only honors those sunny days but also embraces a sustainable choice by using sourdough discard. This recipe makes use of that leftover starter, turning it into something magical. With every bite, the sweet strawberry filling and soft pastry remind me of the joy of simple pleasures. There’s nothing quite like sharing these delightful creations with loved ones.

Let’s dive into how to make these scrumptious homemade sourdough pop tarts that will surely bring a smile to your face. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of summer while reducing kitchen waste.

The Art of Making Homemade Sourdough Pop Tarts

Fundamentals

Homemade sourdough pop tarts are centered around the harmonious blend of a buttery, flaky crust filled with tantalizing strawberry jam. The dough comes together quickly, creating a base that holds up to luscious fillings. You’ll experience the delightful contrast between the crisp, baked pastry and the soft, gooey strawberry preserves inside.

Understanding the basics of pastry dough can help elevate your baking game. You want to achieve a perfect balance between fat, flour, and moisture. The butter adds richness, while the sourdough discard lends a touch of tanginess. Combining these elements results in a beautifully textured dough that bakes to a golden hue.

Preparation/Setup

Preparing for your baking adventure involves gathering all your ingredients first. Start by measuring out the flour, sugars, butter, and other essentials. Having everything in place streamlines the process and ensures that no ingredient gets left behind.

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This temperature provides the perfect environment for the pop tarts to rise and develop a lovely golden crust. Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper will keep the tarts from sticking, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

To make these delightful homemade sourdough pop tarts, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 226 grams strawberries (fresh or frozen)
• 57 grams cane sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
• 57 grams unsalted butter (softened)
• 57 grams cane sugar (for the dough)
• 35 grams powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 57 grams sourdough discard
• 1 large egg yolk
• 255 grams all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons water
• 88 grams strawberry preserves
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 2 to 3 tablespoons water (for the filling)
• 106 grams powdered sugar (sifted)
• 1 to 2 tablespoons milk
• Natural decorating sugars

Directions

1. Start by making the strawberry preserves. If using fresh strawberries, remove the stems and finely chop them. For frozen strawberries, you can skip this step.

2. In a medium pot, add the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved.

3. Turn up the heat to high and boil for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you’re using frozen strawberries, simmer a few extra minutes until the mixture thickens.

4. Reduce the heat back to medium and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, ensuring the strawberries break down and the preserves thicken.

5. Transfer the mixture to a glass jar and allow it to cool to room temperature. Store any extra preserves in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

6. Next, prepare the dough. In a bowl, stir together the softened butter, both sugars, and vanilla extract until thoroughly combined and free of butter chunks.

7. In a small bowl, combine the sourdough discard and egg yolk.

8. Add the flour to the butter mixture, then combine the egg yolk mixture on top. Mix on low until it forms a crumbly dough. Add in water as necessary until the dough comes together.

9. Bring the dough together by hand into a cohesive ball.

10. On a floured surface or piece of parchment paper, roll out the dough into a 14-inch square, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Thinner is better!

11. Trim the edges to form a 12-inch rectangle, and cut out twelve 4 by 3-inch rectangles.

12. Place six rectangles onto your prepared baking sheet.

13. For the filling, mix the strawberry preserves and cornstarch in a bowl until well combined.

14. Assemble the tarts by spooning about 1 tablespoon of filling onto the center of each rectangle. Dab water around the edges of each filled rectangle before topping with another rectangle of dough.

15. Crimp the edges with a fork, then poke holes all over the top or create two slits with a sharp knife.

16. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden brown. Allow the pop tarts to cool completely on the baking sheet.

17. To make the glaze, combine powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl. Whisk until you achieve a smooth, thick glaze.

18. Frost each pop tart with the glaze and sprinkle with your choice of natural decorating sugars.

19. Store in an airtight container for up to three days.

Mastering the Technique of Sourdough Pop Tarts

Technique

Baking homemade sourdough pop tarts isn’t just about following the recipe; it’s about mastering the technique. Start by ensuring that your butter is at room temperature. This makes it easier to incorporate into your mixture, yielding a soft, fluffy dough.

When it comes to rolling out the dough, work quickly. The more you handle it, the warmer it becomes. To keep the dough cold, you might consider returning it to the fridge for a few moments between rolls. This helps maintain flakiness once baked.

Tips and Tricks

Embrace these essential tips for achieving the best results:

• Chilling the dough is crucial. If you notice the dough becoming too warm, pop it back in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes.
• Adjust the thickness of your dough. If you prefer a thicker pop tart, roll it out to about 1/4 inch. If you enjoy a lighter pastry, aim for 1/8 inch.
• Use a fork and create vents properly. This allows steam to escape during baking, preventing soggy tarts.

By keeping these tricks in mind, you’ll find making sourdough pop tarts a delightful experience.

Perfecting Your Homemade Sourdough Pop Tarts

Perfecting Results

To perfect your sourdough pop tarts, consider the baking time and temperature carefully. Every oven runs a bit differently, so keep an eye on your pastries as they bake. Look for a golden-brown bottom, which indicates that they are done.

The filling should also hold its shape without spilling out excessively. If you find the mixture too runny, don’t hesitate to add a little more cornstarch for thickening.

Troubleshooting and Variations

If your dough appears too crumbly, a little extra water can help. On the flip side, if the dough feels sticky, try adding a touch more flour to achieve the right consistency.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider varying the filling! You can explore other fruits or even different flavor jams to add a unique twist to your pop tarts.

Serving and Storage of Sourdough Pop Tarts

Serving and Presentation

When serving your homemade sourdough pop tarts, consider a rustic presentation. Place them on a platter, drizzled with glaze for an eye-catching effect. Pair them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

These pop tarts also make the perfect snack for family gatherings or weekend brunches. They display beautifully alongside a fresh fruit salad or savory additions, creating a balanced spread.

Pairings and Storage

As for storage, these delectable pastries thrive in an airtight container placed in a cool, dry location. They remain fresh for up to three days. However, for optimal taste and texture, enjoy them on the same day they’re baked.

Although wine pairings are not applicable here, consider your favorite coffee or tea to enjoy alongside your homemade sourdough pop tarts. A hot beverage beautifully complements the sweet and tangy flavors, making this a delightful treat any time of day.

Homemade sourdough pop tarts celebrate the joy of baking while incorporating leftovers creatively. Every bite is a testament to the sweetness of summer and a moment of satisfaction from your kitchen.

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