Peanut Butter and Jelly Mini Pies

I went to Target the other day--no breaking news there, since I go to Target every week (or multiple times per week.)  I don't remember what I went there for, but let's be honest, does it really matter?  I mean, who actually goes to Target and comes out with exactly and only ("only" being the key word here) what they originally went there to purchase?

I'll tell you who: Nobody.

It's like some sort of a Target special power, something that they pump in through the air vents that puts shoppers in a Target trance, causing them (and by "them" I mean "me") to toss things like $8 graphic tees, whimsical serving pieces and holiday cupcake liners into their carts, so that by the time they reach the check-out line their "quick trip to Tar-jay for a bottle of Mr. Clean" has turned into (yet another) $50 spree.

Well played, Target Executive Team.

During this particular trip, as I rounded corner #2--you know, the back left side of the store--I was surprised to see that the entire section had already been transformed from what had been "Backyard Barbecue Land" the week before to "School Supply Ville."  Several rows of bins and shelves were piled high with eye-catching displays of notebooks, binders, art supplies and locker decorations.  By the way, when did locker decorating become such a huge thing?  I think I had a picture of Donnie from New Kids on the Block in my locker--that was the extent of my decorations.

Anyhow, my first reaction to this display was, "School supplies already?  Wasn't it just the Fourth of July?"

My second reaction was, "I love, love, LOVE school supplies!!  Must. Buy. Something!"

Obviously, I'm not in school anymore.  Apparently, that doesn't matter.  To me, new school supplies are synonymous with getting more organized--something I am on a constant quest to do.  If I am able to do this by way of some colorful new pens and folders, even better.

Fortunately, I got out of School Supply Ville pretty cheap--only $2.50 for five multicolored notebooks, a small price to pay for being the most organized person ever (at least that's my goal.)

So now that my mind is in back-to-school mode (sorry, kids), I couldn't help but whip up something school-inspired for the blog.  These flaky "pocket pies" were clearly inspired by Pop Tarts, which I loved to eat for breakfast before school as a kid.  I'm not completely clear on whether or not I am allowed to use the term "Pop Tart" per trademark and such, so pocket pies they are!

This recipe is a variation on one featured in my mini pie book, based on the flavors of the perennial lunch box favorite, a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.  In the book, the pocket pie has a basic buttery crust, but I always love my sandwiches on hearty whole wheat bread, so I changed the crust to a flaky whole wheat, flavored with a hint of cinnamon.  The filling is a quick homemade strawberry jam and the glaze is a sweet peanut butter topped with salted chopped peanuts.

The best part is that the pies can be assembled and frozen for up to one month.  Seal them in zip top bags, then bake them as directed straight from the freezer.  Add the glaze and serve for a freshly baked breakfast on the go or a warm after school snack!  See, kids?  School's not so bad after all!

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