When summer rolls around, the scent of fresh peaches fills the air, and I can’t help but think of my favorite dessert: Peach Pie Bars.
These delightful treats are not just a quick solution for a busy day; they’re a way to bring a little sunshine into your kitchen.
With a crumbly crust and juicy peach filling, they’re perfect for impressing friends or simply enjoying on a lazy afternoon.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. Let’s dive into the sweet world of Peach Pie Bars together!
Why You’ll Love This Peach Pie Bars
These Peach Pie Bars are a game-changer for any dessert lover.
They come together in just under an hour, making them perfect for those last-minute gatherings.
The combination of fresh peaches and a buttery crust creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.
Plus, they’re easy to slice and serve, so you can enjoy them without the fuss.
Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your dessert rotation!
Ingredients for Peach Pie Bars
To whip up these delightful Peach Pie Bars, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together beautifully.
Here’s what you’ll gather:
All-purpose flour: The backbone of your crust, providing structure and a tender bite.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and enhances the natural sweetness of the peaches.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and elevate the flavors.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the crust rise slightly, giving it a light texture.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Large egg: Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the crust’s tenderness.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
Fresh peaches: The star of the show! Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor.
Lemon juice: Brightens the peach filling and prevents browning.
Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that complements the peaches beautifully.
Cornstarch: Helps thicken the peach filling, ensuring it’s not too runny.
Feel free to get creative! You can substitute peaches with other fruits like blueberries or cherries for a different twist.
For those with a sweet tooth, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup over the top before serving can elevate these bars even more.
Exact measurements for each ingredient are available at the bottom of the article for easy printing.
How to Make Peach Pie Bars
Making Peach Pie Bars is a delightful journey that fills your kitchen with warmth and sweetness.
Let’s break it down step by step, ensuring you have all the tips you need for success.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
While it warms up, grab your 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it lightly.
This will help your bars come out easily once they’re baked.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, and baking powder.
Next, add the softened butter, large egg, and vanilla extract.
Mix everything until the dough is crumbly but holds together when pressed.
This is the base of your Peach Pie Bars, so make sure it’s well combined!
Step 3: Form the Crust
Now, take half of that dough mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
This will form a sturdy crust for your delicious peach filling.
Make sure it’s even, so every bite is just as good as the last.
Step 4: Prepare the Peach Filling
In another bowl, combine the sliced peaches, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, and cornstarch.
Toss everything together until the peaches are evenly coated.
This mixture is where the magic happens, bringing out the juicy goodness of the peaches.
Step 5: Assemble the Bars
Spread the peach mixture evenly over the crust in the baking dish.
Then, crumble the remaining dough over the top of the peaches.
This creates a beautiful, crumbly topping that will bake to perfection.
Step 6: Bake
Pop your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes.
You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the peaches are bubbly.
The aroma will be irresistible, drawing everyone to the kitchen!
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Once baked, allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes.
This cooling time helps them set, making slicing easier.
After that, cut them into squares and get ready to enjoy your Peach Pie Bars!
Tips for Success
Use ripe peaches for the best flavor; they should be slightly soft to the touch.
Don’t skip the cooling time; it helps the bars set and makes slicing easier.
For a fun twist, add a pinch of nutmeg to the peach filling.
Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary, so check for that golden top.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh for days.
Equipment Needed
9×13-inch baking dish: Essential for baking your bars; a similar-sized dish works too.
Mixing bowls: Use any size; just ensure they’re large enough for your ingredients.
Whisk: Perfect for mixing dry ingredients; a fork can work in a pinch.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key; use a kitchen scale if you prefer.
Spatula: Great for spreading the dough and peach filling evenly.
Variations
Berry Bliss: Swap out peaches for fresh blueberries or raspberries for a tangy twist.
Peach and Cream: Add a layer of cream cheese mixed with sugar and vanilla between the crust and peach filling for a rich flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Spiced Up: Experiment with spices like ginger or cardamom in the peach filling for an exotic flavor profile.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or almonds into the crumb topping for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Peach Pie Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert experience.
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream to add a light, airy touch.
For a refreshing drink, enjoy with iced tea or lemonade.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
FAQs about Peach Pie Bars
Curious about making these delicious Peach Pie Bars? Here are some common questions I often hear, along with helpful answers to guide you through the process.
Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your filling.
How do I store leftover Peach Pie Bars? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Can I make these bars ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the bars a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just let them come to room temperature before serving.
What can I substitute for the egg? If you’re looking for an egg-free option, try using a flaxseed meal or applesauce as a binder. About 1/4 cup of applesauce works well!
Can I add other fruits to the filling? Definitely! Feel free to mix in berries or even cherries for a delightful twist on the classic Peach Pie Bars.
Final Thoughts
Baking Peach Pie Bars is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience that fills your home with warmth and nostalgia.
Each bite transports you to sun-soaked orchards, where the sweetness of ripe peaches dances on your palate.
These bars are perfect for sharing with family and friends, creating memories that linger long after the last crumb is gone.
Whether enjoyed warm with a scoop of ice cream or as a delightful afternoon snack, they bring joy to any occasion.
So roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let the magic of Peach Pie Bars brighten your day!
Delicious Peach Pie Bars made with fresh peaches and a crumbly crust.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Add the softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until the dough is crumbly but holds together when pressed.
Press half of the dough mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
In another bowl, combine the sliced peaches, lemon juice, cinnamon, and cornstarch. Toss until the peaches are evenly coated.
Spread the peach mixture over the crust in the baking dish. Crumble the remaining dough over the top of the peaches.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the peaches are bubbly.
Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before slicing into squares.
Notes
For a richer flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the peach filling.
You can substitute the peaches with other fruits like blueberries or cherries for a different twist.
If you prefer a sweeter dessert, drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the top before serving.
