Protein Pop Tarts are a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic treat. They pack a protein punch while satisfying your sweet tooth. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, these homemade delights will keep you feeling full and energized.

Why Make This Recipe

Creating your own Protein Pop Tarts allows you to control the ingredients and customize flavors to suit your preferences. By incorporating whole wheat flour and protein powder, you not only boost the nutritional value but also enjoy a delightful pastry without the guilt. Plus, they’re easy to make and taste far better than the store-bought versions!

How to Make Protein Pop Tarts

Making your own Protein Pop Tarts is a fun and straightforward process. Follow these steps to whip up a batch of delicious pastries that are perfect for any time of the day.

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
1/2 cup strawberry jam
1 cup confectioners sugar (sugar-free or regular)
1 cup vanilla protein powder (optional)
2 tablespoons milk or water (as needed)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Directions

Preheat your oven to 170°C/325°F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and set aside.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, vanilla protein powder, sugar, and baking powder. Whisk until everything is well incorporated and set aside.
In a separate small bowl, mix together the applesauce, neutral oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms. If the dough feels a bit dry, add 1-2 teaspoons of ice-cold water. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
After resting, divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll out one portion of the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a pizza cutter to cut the dough into 8 equal rectangles. Repeat with the second portion of dough.
Arrange the rectangles on the prepared tray. Place a generous spoonful of strawberry jam in the center of each rectangle, leaving space around the edges for sealing.
Top each filled rectangle with a second dough rectangle. Press down the edges with your fingers, then use a fork to crimp around all sides to fully seal the pop tarts.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until the pastry turns light golden brown. Remove from the oven and let the pop tarts cool completely on a wire rack.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the confectioners sugar, milk or water, and vanilla until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk or water if needed.
Spread the glaze evenly over the cooled pop tarts, leaving a small rim uncoated around the edges. Decorate with sprinkles if desired, and allow the glaze to set at room temperature.

How to Serve Protein Pop Tarts

Serve your Protein Pop Tarts at room temperature as a quick breakfast or on-the-go snack. They also pair wonderfully with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt. For an extra treat, warm them slightly in the microwave before serving to give them a taste reminiscent of fresh pastries.

How to Store Protein Pop Tarts

Store leftover Protein Pop Tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. For even longer storage, consider freezing them; just wrap each pop tart individually before placing them in a freezer bag.

Tips to Make Protein Pop Tarts

Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough helps to make it easier to work with, ensuring perfectly shaped pop tarts.
Customize the filling: Swap the strawberry jam for your favorite fruit preserves or even a chocolate spread for a different flavor.
Experiment with glazes: Get creative with your toppings by adding cocoa powder or different flavored extracts to the glaze.

Variation

Feel free to experiment with various flavors and fillings! You can use different fruits for the jam, incorporate nut butters, or even add chocolate chips or nuts into the dough for added texture and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I substitute the whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour or any gluten-free flour blend, though this may alter the nutritional profile and texture.

2. Is it necessary to use protein powder?
While protein powder adds nutritional value, you can omit it if desired, though the texture may differ slightly.

3. How can I make these pop tarts vegan?
To make these pop tarts vegan, substitute the eggs with flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water, and use non-dairy yogurt instead of applesauce.