Introduction
Celebrate love and sweetness this Valentine’s Day with these delightful Mini Strawberry Vegan Pop Tarts! As the aroma of baked strawberries fills your kitchen, you’ll be transported to a world of warm memories and happy moments. These little treats are not only wholesome and delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up, making them the perfect addition to your special day. Whether you’re sharing them with a loved one or enjoying them solo, these pop tarts are sure to bring a smile to your face!
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon coconut sugar
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, solid
- 3-4 tablespoons cold water
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon plant-based milk
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 8 mini pop tarts
Directions and Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, sea salt, and coconut sugar. Mix well to blend all the dry ingredients together.
- Add the solid coconut oil, and using a fork or your fingers, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, with pea-sized bits of oil remaining.
- Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough begins to come together — it should be firm but slightly sticky.
- Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a disk. Wrap each disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Roll out one disk of dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Aim for an even thickness to ensure even baking.
- Using a knife or pizza cutter, cut out rectangles (approximately 3×4 inches) from the rolled dough.
- Place one tablespoon of strawberry jam in the center of half of the rectangles, spreading it out slightly but leaving a border for sealing.
- Top each jam-filled rectangle with another rectangle of dough. Use a fork to crimp the edges and seal the pop tarts securely.
- Repeat the rolling and cutting process with the second disk of dough, filling and sealing the pop tarts as you go.
- Brush the tops of each pop tart with a thin layer of plant-based milk to help them achieve a lovely golden color.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and irresistibly fragrant.
- Allow the pop tarts to cool on a wire rack, then dust with powdered sugar for that sweet, finishing touch before serving.
Notes or Tips
- Experiment with different fruit jams for a variety of flavors — berry, apple, or apricot could make delightful substitutions!
- If you don’t have coconut sugar, brown sugar can be used without compromising the flavor.
- For a fun twist, add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the filling for an extra layer of warmth.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe is all about keeping it simple and approachable. To ensure a flaky texture, handle the dough gently and avoid overmixing when adding the water. Chilling the dough not only makes it easier to roll out but helps create that perfect tender pastry. Baking at the right temperature is crucial for achieving that golden-brown finish that we all adore!
FAQ
- Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour? Yes! While whole wheat flour adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, all-purpose flour will work just as well for a lighter pastry.
- How do I store leftover pop tarts? Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They can also be frozen and reheated for a quick treat later!
- Can I make these gluten-free? Absolutely! Substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these pop tarts suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Conclusion
These Mini Strawberry Vegan Pop Tarts are not just a delightful dessert; they are a canvas for your creativity in the kitchen. Perfectly portable and loaded with sweet strawberry goodness, they are sure to brighten any occasion, especially Valentine’s Day. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and create these wholesome treats filled with love, flavor, and happy memories. Enjoy every bite!