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Ever dream of a dessert that captures the essence of summer? These Heavenly Summer Peach Bars are your answer! Juicy, sweet peaches nestled between a buttery crust and a crisp crumble topping – it’s the perfect treat for picnics, potlucks, or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon. Get ready for a burst of sunshine in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Peach Bar Recipe

These peach bars are more than just a dessert; they’re an experience. Here’s why you’ll be making them again and again:

Easy to Make: Simple steps make this recipe approachable for bakers of all levels.
Perfectly Portable: Cut into bars, they’re ideal for on-the-go snacking and sharing.
Bursting with Flavor: Fresh peaches combine with cinnamon and lemon for a vibrant taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit at parties, gatherings, and family dinners.
Nostalgic Comfort: Reminiscent of homemade goodness from grandma’s kitchen.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with different fruits or spices.

The aroma alone will fill your kitchen with warmth and joy. These peach bars are truly irresistible!

Ingredients Needed for the Best Peach Bars

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delectable peach bars. Sourcing quality ingredients makes a difference!

For the Crust:

1 1/2 cups (192g) all-purpose flour: Provides the base structure for the crust.
1/2 cup (113g or 1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Adds richness and flakiness. Make sure it’s very cold!
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the crust and helps with browning.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
3-4 tablespoons ice water: Binds the dough together while keeping the butter cold.

For the Peach Filling:

4 cups sliced fresh peaches (about 4-5 medium peaches): The star of the show! Choose ripe but firm peaches.
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the peach filling.
1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour: Thickens the filling and prevents it from being too runny.
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice to complement the peaches.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the flavors and prevents the peaches from browning.

For the Crumble Topping:

1/2 cup (64g) all-purpose flour: Provides structure for the crumble.
1/4 cup (50g) packed light brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.
1/4 cup (25g) rolled oats: Adds texture and a nutty flavor to the topping.
1/4 cup (56g or 1/2 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Creates the crumbly texture.

For the best flavor, consider using locally sourced peaches when in season. Toasting the cinnamon lightly before adding it to the filling will also unlock even more flavor!

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Pumpkin Coffee Cake – A warm and comforting treat perfect for any occasion.

Essential Equipment List for Easy Peach Bars

Having the right tools makes baking these peach bars a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential: 9×13 inch baking pan: For baking the perfect batch of bars.
Essential: Large and medium bowls: To mix the crust, filling, and topping.
Essential: Pastry blender or fork: To cut the butter into the flour for the crust and topping.
Essential: Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Optional: Parchment paper: For easy removal of the bars.

A good quality baking pan will ensure even baking and prevent sticking!

Recipe Details: Quick Glance at Peach Bar Perfection

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 12-16 bars
Difficulty: Easy to Medium

Scale this peach bar recipe up for a crowd or halve it for a smaller treat. Enjoy!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Best Peach Bars

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Heavenly Summer Peach Bars.

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. This prevents the bars from sticking. Alternatively, line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. The dough should be moist but not sticky. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. This pre-baking step ensures a crisp crust that won’t get soggy from the filling. Let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Peach Filling

In a large bowl, combine the sliced peaches, sugar, flour, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Gently toss to coat. Make sure the peaches are evenly coated with the mixture. This helps to thicken the filling and distribute the flavors.

Step 5: Make the Crumble Topping

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and rolled oats. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Use your fingers or a pastry blender to break up the butter. Don’t overmix – you want distinct crumbs.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake the Peach Bars

Pour the peach filling over the pre-baked crust. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the peach filling. Make sure the topping covers the entire surface. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the peach filling is bubbly. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let cool completely before cutting into bars. Store in the refrigerator. Cooling completely allows the filling to set, making the bars easier to cut and serve. These are delicious served chilled or at room temperature.

CHECK OUT: Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls – The perfect fall treat.

Tips for Success: Peach Bar Baking Secrets

Here are some expert tips to ensure your peach bars turn out perfectly every time:

Use Cold Butter: Cold butter is crucial for both the crust and the crumble topping. It creates a flaky texture.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can result in a tough crust. Mix until just combined.
Pre-Bake the Crust: This prevents a soggy bottom and ensures a crisp base.
Use Ripe Peaches: Ripe peaches will give you the best flavor and sweetness.
Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to prevent the filling from running.

If the topping starts to brown too quickly, tent the pan with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Variations & Substitutions: Customize Your Peach Bars

Want to add a personal touch? Here are some delicious variations and substitutions for these peach bars:

Other Fruits: Substitute peaches with nectarines, plums, or a mix of berries.
Nuts: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble topping for extra crunch.
Spices: Experiment with nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom in the filling or topping.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust and topping.

Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free version.

A dash of almond extract in the filling can also enhance the peach flavor!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Heavenly Summer Peach Bars

These peach bars are delicious on their own, but here are some delightful ways to enjoy them:

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that complements the warm, fruity flavors.
Whipped Cream: A light and airy topping for a touch of elegance.
Iced Tea: A refreshing beverage to balance the sweetness.
Coffee: Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat.

These peach bars make a perfect addition to any summer gathering! They’re also great for breakfast or brunch.

Health Benefits: Sweetness with a Side of Goodness

These peach bars offer more than just delicious flavor. Peaches are a good source of vitamins A and C, which are important for immune function and skin health. The oats in the crumble topping provide fiber, which aids in digestion. While this is a treat, it offers some nutritional benefits too! Always enjoy in moderation.

Storage & Reheating: Keeping Your Peach Bars Fresh

Here’s how to store and reheat your Heavenly Summer Peach Bars to maintain their deliciousness:

Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual bars in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
Freezing: For longer storage, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Make sure the bars are completely cooled before storing to prevent condensation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Peach Bars

How Do I Avoid a Soggy Crust?

Pre-baking the crust is essential. Also, make sure not to overfill the pan with the peach mixture.

Can I Use Canned Peaches?

While fresh peaches are best, you can use canned peaches in a pinch. Drain them well and reduce the sugar in the filling accordingly.

Can I Make These Ahead of Time?

Yes! The bars can be assembled and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I Use Frozen Peaches?

Yes, but thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid before using.

How Can I Make the Crumble Topping Extra Crispy?

Use cold butter and don’t overmix the topping. You can also add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the mixture.

Nutritional Information: A Quick Look

Serving Size: 1 Bar
Calories: 250
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 150mg
Total Carbohydrate: 35g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Total Sugars: 20g
Protein: 3g

These values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore: Sweet Treats Await!

Craving more delightful desserts? Check out these fantastic recipes:

Pumpkin Coffee Cake: A comforting and flavorful coffee cake perfect for fall.
Lemon Raspberry Crumble Bars: A tangy and sweet treat with a delightful crumble topping.
Apple Pie Crisp: A simple yet satisfying dessert with warm apple filling and a crispy oat topping.

Conclusion: Bake Up a Batch of Sunshine!

These Heavenly Summer Peach Bars are a quick, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing dessert that captures the essence of summer. Whip up a batch tonight and bring a little sunshine to your kitchen! Don’t forget to share your creations with us.

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Heavenly Summer Peach Bars