Irresistible Peach Crumb Bars Sweet Simple Delight Recipe

The summer season is all about enjoying the sun, gathering with friends and family, and savoring the delicious fruits that come into season. One delightful way to celebrate the bounties of summer is with a batch of Peach Crumb Bars. Imagine a warm afternoon with golden sunshine pouring down as you slice into a batch of freshly baked peach crumb bars, the sweet and juicy peach filling nestled between layers of crumbly goodness. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a picnic at the park, or just indulging in a sweet treat on your patio, these crumb bars are the perfect companion.

This recipe was inspired by childhood summers spent at grandma’s house, where she would bake with the ripest peaches from her garden. The aroma of fresh peaches combined with buttery crumbs filled the kitchen with a warmth that felt like a hug. What makes this recipe truly special is how simple it is to prepare while still looking and tasting gourmet. These Peach Crumb Bars are not only delicious but also a gluten-free and dairy-free option for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy them.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

So why should you take the time to whip up some Peach Crumb Bars? Here are a few reasons:

• Simple Preparation: With a straightforward process, even beginner bakers can achieve stunning results.
• Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, these bars work as a light dessert or a delightful snack.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet peaches mixed with the crunch of the crumb topping is irresistible.
• Dietary-Friendly: Easily adapt to fit gluten-free and dairy-free needs without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these delicious Peach Crumb Bars, gather the following ingredients. Each contributes to the final flavor and texture of the bars:

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh peaches (peeled, pitted, and diced): The star of the show! Sweet, ripe peaches add juicy flavor and moisture to the bars.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: This adds sweetness to the peach filling, balancing the tartness.
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the crust and crumb topping, providing structure.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Creates lift in the bars, ensuring they’re light and not too dense.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavors, balancing the sweetness.
• 1 cup cold unsalted butter: Adds richness and creates that wonderful crumb texture.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: This adds a hint of molasses flavor and moisture to the crumbs.

Optional Additions

• Cinnamon: Adding 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the crumb mixture for a warm, spicy note.
• Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can be folded into the crumb topping for an added crunch.
• Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the peach flavor for a deeper taste experience.

Special Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting on top of the bars can make them look elegant and taste even sweeter.
• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of mint adds a bright pop of color and a refreshing taste.
• Ice cream or whipped cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to bake your own Peach Crumb Bars:

1. Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the bars bake evenly.
2. Prepare the pan: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
3. Make the peach filling: In a bowl, combine the diced peaches and granulated sugar. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the juices to seep out.
4. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Cut in the butter: Using a pastry cutter or two forks, cut the cold butter into the dry mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
6. Add sugars: Stir in the brown sugar until well combined.
7. Reserve some crumbs: Take about one cup of the crumb mixture and set it aside for the topping.
8. Press the crust: Press the remaining crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
9. Add peach filling: Spoon the peach mixture evenly over the crust, spreading it out gently.
10. Top with crumbs: Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the peach filling, covering it as evenly as possible.
11. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
12. Cool: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
13. Slice and serve: Once cooled, slice into squares. These bars are great served warm or at room temperature.

Serving and Storage Tips

Once your Peach Crumb Bars are baked and cooled, serving them is part of the fun!

• Serving: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful treat. These bars pair wonderfully with fresh fruit or a cup of tea, making them an all-around versatile dessert.
• Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months—just make sure to wrap them well!

Helpful Tips

Here are some additional tips to ensure your Peach Crumb Bars turn out perfectly:

• Use ripe peaches: The best flavor comes from using fresh, ripe peaches. If they’re slightly overripe, that’s okay; they’ll still add great taste.
• Chill the butter: Make sure your butter is cold when cutting it into the flour. This helps create a flakier texture in your crumb mixture.
• Don’t skip the cooling process: Allowing the bars to cool completely makes them easier to slice and helps the filling set up nicely.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste your peach filling before spreading it on the crust. If your peaches are sweet, you may want to reduce the sugar.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these Peach Crumb Bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to substitute the regular flour in this recipe. Just make sure your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen peaches. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using them in the recipe.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the top is golden brown and the edges are lightly crisp. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.

Can I use different fruits instead of peaches?

Certainly! These crumb bars are versatile. You can substitute peaches with other fruits like blueberries, apples, or cherries for a similar crumble effect.

How do I serve these bars?

Serve them as they are for a simple treat, or dress them up with whipped cream or ice cream on top for a more festive presentation. They’re also delightful with a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar.

Conclusion

Your journey into baking Peach Crumb Bars is not just about creating a wonderful dessert; it’s also about cherishing memories and savoring flavors that remind us of special times. This recipe combines the sweetness of fresh peaches with a buttery, crumbly topping that will transport you back to summertime joys, whether it be picnics or family gatherings. So why not bake a batch today? Share your experiences or adaptations in the comments below; I’d love to hear how you made this recipe your own! Remember, cooking is not just about the food—it’s about creating lasting memories with loved ones over a shared dish.

Irresistible Peach Crumb Bars Sweet Simple Delight Recipe

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Print Recipe

Savor the irresistible delight of Peach Crumb Bars This sweet simple recipe makes the perfect treat for any occasion Enjoy deliciousness today

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

Ingredients

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2 cups fresh peaches (peeled, pitted, and diced)

1/4 cup granulated sugar

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup cold unsalted butter

1/4 cup brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Powdered sugar for garnish (optional)

Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

In a bowl, combine the diced peaches and granulated sugar; let sit for about 10 minutes.

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.

Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Stir in the brown sugar until well combined.

Reserve about one cup of the crumb mixture for topping and press the remaining mixture into the bottom of the prepared dish.

Spoon the peach mixture evenly over the crust, then sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture on top.

Bake for about 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Once cooled, slice into squares and serve.

• Author: souzanfood
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 200 calories
• Sugar: 12 grams
• Fat: 10 grams
• Saturated Fat: 10 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30 grams
• Fiber: 1 gram
• Protein: 2 grams