1. Start by laying out the pie crust on a lightly floured surface. Ensure that it’s flat to make cutting easier. Using a cookie cutter, cut out sixteen heart-shaped pieces. Take your time to get as many hearts as possible, maximizing your dough.
2. On one heart-shaped piece of crust, add about one tablespoon of the strawberry preserves in the center. Spread it evenly, leaving a border around the edges. This border is essential for sealing the pop tarts properly.
3. Repeat adding the preserves to half of the heart shapes until you have filled all your filling hearts. Don’t rush this step; an even spread makes a world of difference in flavor.
4. Next, crack the egg into a small bowl and beat it thoroughly until you achieve a uniform mixture. This will be your egg wash.
5. Using a silicone brush, apply the egg wash around the edges of each filled heart crust. This step is crucial for ensuring that the pastries seal properly and achieve that beautiful golden color once cooked.
6. Now, take an unfilled heart-shaped piece of dough and place it gently on top of your filled crust. Use a fork to press down firmly around the edges, sealing the pop tart. Repeat this with all prepared hearts.
7. Brush the tops of each heart with more egg wash, ensuring they are fully coated. This allows them to develop a lovely sheen while baking.
8. Using the fork, poke 6 to 8 holes in the top of each pastry to let steam escape. This prevents them from bursting in the oven!
9. Depending on the size of your air fryer, place as many pastries as will fit without overlapping. Cook at 370° for 7 minutes. Once cooked, flip them over and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until both sides are light brown.
10. If you prefer the oven method, preheat to 375 degrees. Bake the pastries on parchment paper for 10 to 14 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking. The pastries should be light brown outside and slightly gooey inside.
11. As the pop tarts cool, mix the powdered sugar with the remaining strawberry preserves to create a frosting. Drizzle this over the cooled pastries and sprinkle with sprinkles before the frosting sets. Enjoy!
