Peach Bars: A Summertime Delight

Summer’s bounty is at its peak, and what better way to celebrate the season than with these irresistible Peach Bars? Imagine the sweet, juicy burst of ripe peaches encased in a buttery, crumbly crust and topped with a crunchy oat streusel. This recipe is not just about deliciousness; it’s about capturing the essence of summer in every bite. These bars are perfect for potlucks, picnics, or simply satisfying a sweet craving on a warm afternoon. Forget complicated pastries; these Peach Bars are surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal baking skills and readily available ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, you’ll find yourself effortlessly whipping up these delightful treats. The combination of textures and flavors is a masterpiece the soft, yielding peach filling contrasts perfectly with the crisp crust and the delightful crunch of the topping. Prepare to be amazed by how easy it is to create a dessert that tastes like it came from a gourmet bakery!

Why You’ll Love This Peach Bars Recipe

These Peach Bars are more than just a dessert; they’re an experience. There are so many reasons why you’ll absolutely adore this recipe:

• Simplicity: The recipe is incredibly easy to follow, even for beginner bakers. No special techniques or equipment are required.
• Fresh, Seasonal Flavors: Showcasing the best of summer’s produce, these bars are bursting with the sweet, juicy taste of fresh peaches. The recipe allows the natural flavor of the peaches to shine.
• Irresistible Texture: The delightful contrast between the buttery, crumbly crust, the soft peach filling, and the crunchy oat topping creates a truly unforgettable texture experience. Each bite offers a delightful surprise.
• Versatility: These bars are incredibly versatile. They’re perfect for a casual afternoon snack, a summer picnic, or a sophisticated dessert at a party. They also transport well, making them ideal for potlucks.
• Customization: Feel free to experiment! Add different nuts to the topping, use a different type of sugar, or even incorporate other fruits alongside the peaches. The possibilities are endless. Check out our tips and variations section for some exciting ideas!
• Crowd-Pleaser: These Peach Bars are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone, from kids to adults. Their delicious flavors and appealing texture make them a crowd-pleasing dessert.

These Peach Bars are a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a truly exceptional dessert. They’re the kind of recipe that makes you feel proud of your baking skills, even if you’re a beginner. The beautiful golden-brown topping, the fragrant aroma while baking, and the delightful taste are all part of the satisfying experience of making these bars. You’ll find yourself wanting to bake them again and again, perfecting your technique and experimenting with different variations. Trust us, these Peach Bars are a recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to, year after year.

Why You Should Try This Peach Bars Recipe

Beyond their deliciousness, these Peach Bars offer a unique combination of advantages that make them stand out from other desserts:

• Cost-Effective: The ingredients are readily available and inexpensive, making these Peach Bars a budget-friendly dessert option. You likely already have many of them in your pantry.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: These bars can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for busy schedules. Bake them a day or two in advance, and they’ll stay fresh and delicious. This saves you time and effort when you’re entertaining.
• Easy to Store and Transport: Peach Bars are easy to store in an airtight container at room temperature. Their sturdy construction makes them perfect for transporting to picnics, potlucks, or other gatherings.
• Healthy-ish Option (Compared to other desserts): While they are a dessert and do contain sugar, the use of fresh fruit makes them a slightly healthier option than many other sweet treats. The oats add some fiber, too!
• Perfect for Gifting: These Peach Bars make a fantastic homemade gift. Their beautiful appearance and delicious taste will impress your friends and family. They’re also easy to package and present beautifully.
• A Taste of Summer: These bars are a perfect way to capture the essence of summer and enjoy the season’s best flavors. Their bright, fruity taste is a welcome reminder of warm, sunny days.

Making these Peach Bars is not just about creating a delicious dessert; it’s about creating a warm and inviting experience. The aroma filling your kitchen while they bake will transport you to a sunny afternoon, and the taste will bring pure joy. It’s a recipe perfect for sharing, for creating memories, and for simply savoring the sweet taste of summer. These Peach Bars are an investment in happiness, a delightful treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth and bring a smile to your face. So, why not give them a try? You won’t regret it!

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Peach Bars

This section details the ingredients and utensils needed for perfect Peach Bars. Precise measurements ensure consistent results.

Crust Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (you can substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (ensure it’s fresh for optimal leavening)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (enhances the flavors of the other ingredients)
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into cubes (cold butter is crucial for a flaky crust)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (provides sweetness and helps bind the crust)
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar (adds depth of flavor and moisture to the crust)
• 1 large egg yolk (binds the ingredients and adds richness)

Peach Filling Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced (about 4-5 medium peaches; choose ripe but firm peaches for best results)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to your preference based on peach sweetness)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (thickens the filling and prevents it from becoming watery)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (brightens the flavor and prevents browning)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (adds warmth and complements the peach flavor)

Topping Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (adds structure to the topping)
• 1/2 cup rolled oats (provides texture and a slightly nutty flavor)
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar (adds sweetness and moisture)
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, but adds a delicious crunch; feel free to use other nuts or seeds)
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted (binds the topping ingredients)

Necessary Utensils:

• 9×13 inch baking pan (greased and floured for easy removal)
• Large bowls (at least two, for the crust and filling)
• Medium bowl (for the topping)
• Pastry blender or your fingers (to cut the butter into the flour)
• Whisk (for combining dry ingredients)
• Measuring cups and spoons (for accurate ingredient measurements)
• Spatula or spoon (for spreading the filling and topping)
• Vegetable peeler (for peeling the peaches)
• Knife (for slicing the peaches)
• Baking sheet (optional, for extra stability in the oven)
• Cooling rack (to cool the bars completely)

Detailed Recipe Steps for Peach Bars

Follow these steps for perfectly baked Peach Bars. Remember, accuracy in measurements and attention to detail are key.

1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents. **Ensure your butter is thoroughly chilled** for a flaky crust. Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This process incorporates the fat into the flour, creating a tender crust. Stir in the granulated sugar and brown sugar. Add the egg yolk and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough crust. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of your greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your fingers to create an even layer.
2. Prepare the Peach Filling: In a separate large bowl, combine the sliced peaches, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Toss gently to coat the peaches evenly. The cornstarch helps to thicken the filling and prevent excessive moisture. **Don’t over-mix**, as this can cause the filling to become gummy. The lemon juice helps to brighten the flavor and keep the peaches from oxidizing and turning brown.
3. Assemble the Bars: Spread the peach filling evenly over the prepared crust. Use a spatula or spoon to ensure an even layer. This step is important for a consistent flavor throughout the bars.
4. Prepare the Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, and nuts (if using). Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly. **Don’t overmix.** The topping should be moist but not wet. A slightly crumbly texture is desirable for a crispy topping.
5. Bake the Bars: Sprinkle the topping evenly over the peach filling. Use your fingers or a spoon to distribute it uniformly. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on your bars. To ensure even baking, consider placing the pan on a baking sheet. **Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.** This allows the filling to set properly and prevents the bars from crumbling.

Tips and Variations for Peach Bars

Experiment with these tips and variations to personalize your Peach Bars.

• Use Frozen Peaches: If fresh peaches aren’t available, you can use frozen peaches. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid before using them. This will ensure that the filling isn’t too watery.
• Add Other Fruits: Get creative! Mix in other summer fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries to the peach filling for an extra burst of flavor and color.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, exotic twist.
• Different Nuts and Seeds: Experiment with different nuts or seeds in the topping, such as almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds. Each will add a unique flavor and texture to the bars.
• Make it Vegan: Replace the egg yolk with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tbsp water) and use vegan butter in both the crust and topping. Ensure you use a vegan sugar if necessary.
• Adjust Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar in both the crust and the filling to suit your taste preference. Taste the peaches before adding sugar to the filling, as some peaches are naturally sweeter than others.
• Avoid Overbaking: Overbaking can result in dry bars. Start checking for doneness around 40 minutes, and remove them from the oven when the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. The center might still appear slightly soft, but it will firm up as it cools.
• Proper Cooling: Let the bars cool completely before cutting. This allows the filling to set and prevents the bars from crumbling. Cooling on a wire rack helps prevent moisture buildup on the bottom.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Peach Bars

While Peach Bars are a treat, let’s examine their nutritional aspects.

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. It’s best to use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients to get precise values.

Approximate Nutritional Values (per bar, assuming 16 bars):

• Calories: 250-300
• Protein: 3-4g
• Fat: 12-15g
• Carbohydrates: 35-40g
• Fiber: 2-3g

Benefits of Key Ingredients:

• Peaches: Rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber. They contribute to healthy skin, immune function, and digestive health. Peaches are also a good source of potassium.
• Oats: Excellent source of fiber, which aids digestion and promotes satiety. They also contain various nutrients, including magnesium and manganese.
• Nuts (optional): Provide healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They’re a good source of vitamin E and antioxidants.

Remember to enjoy Peach Bars in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The nutritional benefits of the fruits and oats are offset somewhat by the added sugars and fats, but these bars still offer a healthier alternative to many other desserts.

FAQs about Peach Bars

Conclusion

These Peach Bars are the perfect embodiment of summer’s sweetness and simplicity. From the easy-to-follow instructions to the delicious results, this recipe is a must-try for every baker, whether a seasoned professional or a kitchen newbie. The beautiful combination of textures and flavors the buttery crust, the juicy peach filling, and the crunchy oat topping will leave you wanting more. Remember to share your Peach Bar creations with us! Tag us on social media and let us know how yours turned out. And don’t forget to check out our other delicious recipes on our website! For more baking inspiration, be sure to follow our Pinterest board for even more amazing recipes: Cocina Facilita on Pinterest.

We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences making these Peach Bars. Leave a comment below, share your photos on social media, and let us know what variations you try! Happy baking!

Delicious Peach Bars

These easy peach bars are perfect for summer! A buttery crust, sweet peach filling, and crunchy oat topping make them irresistible.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings: 12 bars

Course: Bar, Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Crust Ingredients

• 1.5 cups All-purpose flour
• 0.5 teaspoon Baking powder
• 0.25 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 cup Unsalted butter, chilled (1 stick), cut into cubes
• 0.5 cup Granulated sugar
• 0.25 cup Packed light brown sugar
• 1 Large egg yolk

Peach Filling Ingredients

• 4 cups Fresh peaches, peeled and sliced (about 4-5 medium peaches)
• 0.5 cup Granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons Cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
• 0.25 teaspoon Ground cinnamon

Topping Ingredients

• 0.5 cup All-purpose flour
• 0.5 cup Rolled oats
• 0.5 cup Packed light brown sugar
• 0.25 cup Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• 0.5 cup Unsalted butter, melted (1 stick)

Equipment

• 9x13 inch baking pan
• Mixing Bowls
• Pastry blender or fork
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Method

 

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
2. Make the crust: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in granulated and brown sugars. Add the egg yolk and mix until just combined. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
3. Make the peach filling: In a separate bowl, combine sliced peaches, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Toss gently to coat.
4. Spread the peach filling evenly over the crust.
5. Make the topping: In a medium bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and nuts (if using). Pour in the melted butter and stir until crumbly.
6. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the peach filling.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
8. Let cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use brown butter in the crust. You can also substitute other berries for the peaches, adjusting the sugar as needed. Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.