Peach Crumb Bars Recipe

If you’re craving a delightful treat that perfectly balances fruity freshness with a luscious crumbly texture, this Peach Crumb Bars Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine juicy, tender peaches embraced by golden, buttery crumb layers that practically melt in your mouth; it’s a dessert that feels like sunshine on a plate. Whether for a family gathering or a cozy afternoon snack, these bars bring warmth, sweetness, and a hint of spice all rolled into one irresistible bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

 

The magic behind the Peach Crumb Bars Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that ideal harmony of flavors and textures—from the tender peaches bursting with natural sweetness to the buttery crumb topping infused with cinnamon warmth.

• Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the crust and filling, balancing the tartness of peaches.
• Baking powder: Gives the crust a light lift, ensuring it stays tender yet sturdy.
• All-purpose flour: The foundation for both crumb layers; be sure to spoon and level it for accuracy.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds a cozy, warming spice that complements the peaches beautifully.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors, keeping every bite perfectly balanced.
• Cold unsalted butter: Cubed for easy blending, it’s what creates the signature crumbly texture.
• Large egg: Binds the crust ingredients together for a cohesive base and topping.
• Pure vanilla extract: Adds depth and a subtle sweetness to the crust.
• Fresh peaches: The star of the show, sliced and peeled for tender, juicy filling.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the peach filling so it doesn’t get watery as it bakes.
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice: Balances the sweetness with a slight tang and helps keep the peaches vibrant.

How to Make Peach Crumb Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

First things first, get your oven preheated to 350°F and line a 9×13 pan with foil or parchment paper. This ensures your peach crumb bars come out easily without sticking, and it also makes cleanup a breeze. Don’t forget to lightly spray the liner with non-stick spray so those golden bars release effortlessly after baking.

Step 2: Make the Crust and Topping

Using a hand mixer or stand mixer with the paddle attachment, combine granulated sugar, baking powder, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Then, add the cold butter cubes, egg, and vanilla extract. Beat on low speed until the mixture becomes crumbly and the butter is evenly distributed in those tiny, buttery pieces. You’ll notice the dough’s texture is just perfect for creating that irresistible crumb crunch. Reserve just over half of this mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan for the crust.

Step 3: Prepare the Peach Filling

In a separate bowl, gently stir together the sliced peeled peaches, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and cinnamon. The lemon juice is your secret weapon for keeping peaches fresh and vibrant—use between one to two tablespoons depending on how juicy or ripe your fruit is. When everything is combined, spread the luscious peach filling evenly over the crust in your pan.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Now, sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the peach layer, giving it that beautiful, golden topping. Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns a light golden brown and the peach juices start bubbling wonderfully around the edges. Once baked, transfer the pan to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing into those perfect squares.

How to Serve Peach Crumb Bars Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar can add a delicate sweetness and make these bars look even more inviting. For an extra special touch, a drizzle of vanilla glaze or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top complements the warm peach filling beautifully, creating a lovely contrast of temperatures and textures.

Side Dishes

These bars shine so well on their own, but if you want to turn your dessert into a light summer feast, pair them with a fresh fruit salad or a dollop of whipped cream mixed with a hint of cinnamon. A hot cup of tea or a glass of crisp white wine also makes a wonderful companion to the peach crumb bars.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Peach Crumb Bars Recipe on a rustic wooden board or a pretty dessert plate dusted lightly with cinnamon. You can also cut them into mini squares and serve them as bite-sized treats at casual gatherings, or layer smaller pieces into parfait glasses with yogurt and granola for a stunning brunch presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Peach Crumb Bars Recipe keeps beautifully when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want them to last longer, transfer them to the refrigerator where they will stay fresh for about five days—just be sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor experience.

Freezing

These bars freeze exceptionally well. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the oven if you want that just-baked feel. Freezing lets you have this delicious dessert ready whenever that peach craving hits.

Reheating

To revive the crumbly magic, warm your bars in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes, or until they’re heated through and the crumb topping regains its subtle crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, since it can make the crust soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?

While fresh peaches provide the best flavor and texture for this Peach Crumb Bars Recipe, you can use frozen peaches if fresh ones aren’t in season. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture from making the bars soggy.

What is the purpose of cornstarch in the filling?

Cornstarch helps thicken the juicy peach filling as it bakes, preventing it from becoming too runny and keeping those beautiful bars perfectly sliceable.

Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative?

Yes, you can try a gluten-free baking flour blend, but results may vary slightly in texture. Be sure to choose a blend formulated for baking to maintain that crumbly yet tender crust and topping.

How do I make vanilla glaze to top the bars?

Mix powdered sugar with a splash of milk and a touch of vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Drizzle it over cooled bars for an elegant and sweet finishing touch.

Can these bars be made ahead of time for a party?

Absolutely! The Peach Crumb Bars Recipe is perfect for making a day in advance. Store the finished bars in an airtight container and bring them to room temperature before serving for maximum enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly special about a homemade Peach Crumb Bars Recipe that just can’t be beaten—the way the juicy peaches burst through the buttery crumb topping always brings a smile. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and watch it become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection. Trust me, sharing these bars with friends and family will be one of your sweetest joys!

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