The first time I took a bite of Peach Crumb Bars, I was transported to a sun-drenched orchard, surrounded by the sweet scent of ripe peaches. There’s just something about the combination of warm, buttery crumble and juicy, fresh fruit that feels like a hug in dessert form. This recipe has become my go-to whenever I need a little reminder of summer, regardless of the season.
One day, while sifting through my kitchen, I realized that fast food had taken over my life, and something had to change. Enter these Peach Crumb Bars! They’re not just easy to whip up; they also bring family and friends together, making every gathering a little sweeter. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply looking to savor the flavors of homemade goodness, these bars are sure to be a hit. Plus, with their satisfyingly crumbly topping and burst of peach flavor, every bite is a delightful surprise waiting to unfold. So, grab your ingredients and let’s create something delicious together!
Why are Peach Crumb Bars a must-try?
Deliciously comforting: Each bite offers a warm embrace of sweet peaches and buttery crumble.
Easy preparation: You’ll need simple ingredients and minimal effort, perfect for all skill levels!
Versatile dessert: Ideal for summer picnics, cozy gatherings, or a weekend treat.
Crowd-pleaser: Impress your friends and family with this delightful twist on classic fruit desserts.
Fresh flavors: The combination of juicy peaches and a sprinkle of cinnamon a lovely highlight in every bite.
Step away from fast food and experience homemade joy with these Peach Crumb Bars!
Peach Crumb Bars Ingredients
• Get ready to indulge in a summer classic!
For the Crust
- Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the tartness of the peaches.
- Baking powder – Ensures the crust is light and fluffy.
- All-purpose flour – The base that holds it all together.
- Ground cinnamon – Provides a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the peaches.
- Salt – Enhances and balances all the flavors.
- Cold unsalted butter – Creates a flaky texture—make sure it’s cold!
- Large egg – Acts as a binding agent for the crust.
- Pure vanilla extract – Adds depth and sweetness.
For the Peach Filling
- Fresh peaches – The star of the show; ripe and juicy peaches make this dish shine!
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the filling, enhancing the fruit’s natural flavor.
- Cornstarch – Acts as a thickener for the peach juices.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice – Brightens the flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon – A hint of spice that pairs perfectly with the peaches.
Dive into these Peach Crumb Bars and rediscover the joy of homemade desserts!
How to Make Peach Crumb Bars
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Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9×13-inch pan by lining it with foil or parchment paper, then spray it with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
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Mix the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, baking powder, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, and salt. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, add the cold butter, egg, and vanilla. Mix on low until the mixture becomes crumbly, with small pieces of butter evenly distributed throughout.
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Press the crust: Take a little more than half of this crumbly mixture and dump it into your prepared pan. With your hands or the bottom of a measuring cup, press the dough evenly across the bottom of the pan, creating a firm base for your bars.
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Prepare the filling: In a separate bowl, gently stir together the sliced peaches, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Adjust the amount of lemon juice based on the ripeness of your peaches. Combine until everything is evenly coated.
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Layer the ingredients: Evenly spread the peach mixture over the crust in the pan. Then, crumble the remaining dough over the top, ensuring it covers the peaches generously for that delightful topping.
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Bake to perfection: Place the pan in the oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes. Look for a light golden brown topping and bubbling peach juices as indicators of doneness. Once baked, transfer the pan to a cooling rack and let it cool completely before slicing into squares.
Optional: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Peach Crumb Bars
- Choose ripe peaches: Select peaches that are slightly soft to the touch and fragrant for the best flavor in your Peach Crumb Bars.
- Don’t skip chilling: Ensure your butter is cold before mixing; this helps achieve that flaky texture in the crust and avoids a greasy result.
- Adjust lemon wisely: The juiciness of peaches can vary, so start with less lemon juice; you can always add more if needed for balance.
- Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on the bars as they bake; the perfect time is when the top is golden brown and the peach juices are bubbling.
- Cool before cutting: Let the bars cool completely before slicing; this allows the filling to set and makes for cleaner, prettier squares.
What to Serve with Peach Crumb Bars?
Get ready to elevate your dessert experience and create a delightful spread!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over the warm bars, creating a luscious contrast.
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Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds a pop of color and tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the peaches.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream drizzled on top brings a luxurious touch to your Peach Crumb Bars, enhancing their comfort.
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Mint Tea: Serve a refreshing glass of mint tea to cleanse the palate and balance the sweetness of the dessert.
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Cinnamon Sugar Dust: A light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top before serving enhances the spice and makes for an inviting presentation.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel over your Peach Crumb Bars for an indulgent touch that adds richness and depth.
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Lemonade: A glass of chilled lemonade offers a perfect citrusy contrast, cutting through the richness and elevating your summer experience.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For a playful twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the bars, introducing an unexpected richness that pairs surprisingly well!
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Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses, like brie or goat cheese, creates a savory balance alongside the sweetness of the bars.
Let your Peach Crumb Bars shine even brighter with these delightful pairings!
Peach Crumb Bars Variations
Feel free to tailor these delightful bars to your taste and dietary needs!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a deliciously safe option.
- Vegan: Use coconut oil in place of butter and replace the egg with a flaxseed egg for a plant-based twist.
- Added Nuts: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumble for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
- Berry Boost: Add fresh blueberries or raspberries with the peaches for a burst of color and an added tartness.
- Cinnamon Swirl: Mix an extra teaspoon of ground cinnamon into the peach filling for a warm flavor boost.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper to the crumble for those who love a little heat to balance the sweetness.
- Sweetener Swap: Use maple syrup or honey instead of granulated sugar for a different sweetness profile that adds depth.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted chocolate over the bars for a decadent finishing touch.
Have fun experimenting and make these Peach Crumb Bars uniquely yours!
How to Store and Freeze Peach Crumb Bars
Room Temperature: Store leftover Peach Crumb Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep their texture and flavor intact.
Fridge: For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Just make sure they’re well covered to prevent drying out.
Freezer: You can freeze Peach Crumb Bars for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight or reheat directly from the freezer in the microwave for a quick treat!
Make Ahead Options
These Peach Crumb Bars are a perfect solution for busy home cooks seeking to streamline meal prep! You can prepare the crust and the peach filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the crust ingredients and press them into the pan, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. For the filling, combine the sliced peaches and remaining ingredients, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, layer the filling over the crust and crumble the saved topping on top. This way, you’ll still enjoy the freshly baked flavor while saving precious time—these bars will be just as delicious as if made from scratch on the spot!
Peach Crumb Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best peaches for my Peach Crumb Bars?
Absolutely! Look for peaches that are slightly soft to the touch and emit a sweet fragrance. They should have a vibrant color without any dark spots or bruises. Ripe peaches will provide the best flavor and sweetness, creating that delightful peach experience you’re after.
What’s the best way to store leftover Peach Crumb Bars?
Great question! You can store leftover Peach Crumb Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, move them to the refrigerator, where they can last up to 5 days. Just make sure to keep them well covered to prevent them from drying out!
Can I freeze Peach Crumb Bars, and if so, how?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze your Peach Crumb Bars! First, let them cool completely to room temperature. Then, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap, making sure no parts are exposed, and place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or reheat directly from the freezer in the microwave.
What should I do if my peach filling is too runny?
If your peach filling turns out runny, don’t worry! It might just need a bit more cornstarch. When preparing the filling, gently mix in another 1/2 tablespoon of cornstarch and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This allows the cornstarch to absorb some of the excess juice. Once this is done, you can layer it onto the crust. Baking the bars until bubbly will also help achieve that thicker consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of when making these bars?
Yes! If you or your guests have allergies, it’s important to note that this recipe contains gluten (from the all-purpose flour) and dairy (from the butter). For a gluten-free version, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend. If you need a dairy-free option, try using coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute. Just remember to check that all other ingredients, particularly processed ones, are also free of allergens.
How can I adjust the sweetness of my Peach Crumb Bars?
Very easily! If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can reduce the sugar in the filling. Start by using ¼ cup less granulated sugar, then taste the peach mixture before adding more if necessary. Keep in mind that the ripeness of your peaches will also impact the overall sweetness, so adjust accordingly!
Irresistible Peach Crumb Bars for a Summer Treat Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13-inch pan by lining it with foil or parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, baking powder, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, and salt. Add cold butter, egg, and vanilla, mixing on low until crumbly.
- Press a little more than half of the crumbly mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
- Gently mix sliced peaches, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a separate bowl until coated.
- Spread the peach mixture over the crust and crumble the remaining dough over the top.
- Bake for approximately 45 minutes until the topping is golden brown and juices are bubbling. Cool completely before slicing.