Peach Crumb Bars: Indulge in a Delicious Treat Today!

Name: Peach Crumb Bars: Indulge in a Delicious Treat Today!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Posted on July 1, 2025

DESSERT

Introduction to Peach Crumb Bars

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something delicious. That’s where these Peach Crumb Bars come in! They’re not just a treat; they’re a quick solution for those hectic days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With a buttery crumb crust and sweet peach filling, these bars are a delightful way to celebrate summer’s bounty. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why they’re a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Peach Crumb Bars

These Peach Crumb Bars are a dream come true for busy moms and professionals alike. They come together in just about 50 minutes, making them perfect for a last-minute dessert. The combination of a buttery crust and juicy peach filling is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve at family gatherings or enjoy as a sweet snack during the week. Who wouldn’t love that?

Ingredients for Peach Crumb Bars

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Peach Crumb Bars. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This forms the base of your crumb crust, giving it that perfect texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the crust and filling, balancing the tartness of the peaches.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create that crumbly texture we all love.
Baking powder: A leavening agent that gives the crust a light, airy quality.
Salt: Enhances the flavors, making the sweetness pop.
Cinnamon: A warm spice that complements the peaches beautifully.
Fresh peaches: The star of the show! Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor.
Lemon juice: Brightens the peach filling and adds a touch of acidity.
Cornstarch: Helps thicken the peach filling, ensuring it holds together nicely.

For those looking for alternatives, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version. And if fresh peaches aren’t in season, feel free to use frozen ones—just make sure to thaw and drain them first!

Exact measurements for these ingredients can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print out and take to the kitchen!

How to Make Peach Crumb Bars

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Peach Crumb Bars! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dessert that will impress everyone.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures even baking. If you skip this step, your bars might not cook properly, and nobody wants that!

Step 2: Prepare the Crust Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Mix them well to ensure even distribution. Then, add the softened butter. Use a fork or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This crumbly texture is what makes the crust so delightful!

Step 3: Press the Crust into the Pan

Next, take half of your crumb mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of a greased baking pan. Make sure to spread it evenly. I like to use the back of a measuring cup to help with this. It gives a nice, even layer that will hold the peach filling perfectly.

Step 4: Prepare the Peach Filling

In another bowl, toss your sliced peaches with lemon juice and cornstarch. The lemon juice brightens the flavor, while the cornstarch helps thicken the filling. Mix gently to coat the peaches without mashing them. You want those juicy slices to shine!

Step 5: Assemble the Bars

Now it’s time to layer! Spread the peach mixture evenly over the crust in the baking pan. Then, sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top of the peaches. This creates a lovely crumbly topping that will bake to golden perfection.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the peach filling is bubbly. A little golden color means a lot of flavor!

Step 7: Cool and Cut

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely. This step is essential! If you cut into the bars too soon, they might fall apart. Patience is key here. Once cooled, slice them into bars and get ready to enjoy!

Tips for Success

Use ripe peaches for the best flavor; they should be slightly soft to the touch.
Don’t skip the cooling step; it helps the bars set properly.
For a fun twist, add a handful of chopped nuts to the crumb mixture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg for added warmth!

Equipment Needed

Baking pan: A 9×9 inch pan works perfectly, but you can use any similar-sized dish.
Mixing bowls: A couple of medium-sized bowls will do the trick.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
Fork or pastry cutter: Great for mixing the crumb mixture.
Spatula: Handy for spreading the peach filling evenly.

Variations of Peach Crumb Bars

Berry Bliss: Swap out some or all of the peaches for fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries for a delightful twist.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumb mixture for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
Spiced Up: Experiment with spices like ginger or cardamom in the crumb mixture for a warm, aromatic touch.
Vegan Version: Replace the butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg instead of regular eggs for a plant-based treat.
Gluten-Free Delight: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Serving Suggestions for Peach Crumb Bars

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Pair with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of sweetness.
Enjoy alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea.
For a beautiful presentation, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.

FAQs about Peach Crumb Bars

Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen peaches work well in these Peach Crumb Bars. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before mixing with the other ingredients. This will help prevent excess moisture in your bars.

How do I store leftover Peach Crumb Bars?

To keep your bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just make sure to wrap them tightly!

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! These Peach Crumb Bars can be made a day in advance. Just bake, cool, and store them in the fridge. They taste just as delicious the next day, making them perfect for meal prep!

What can I substitute for granulated sugar?

If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative like stevia. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the texture and sweetness.

Can I add other fruits to the filling?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist. Just remember to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the additional fruits.

Final Thoughts

Making these Peach Crumb Bars is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories with your loved ones. The aroma of fresh peaches and warm spices fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around. Each bite is a delightful blend of buttery crust and juicy filling, making it hard to resist going back for seconds. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, these bars bring joy and comfort. So, roll up your sleeves and indulge in this delicious treat today—you deserve it!