Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars

why make this recipe

Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe peaches with a rich cream filling and a crunchy crumble topping. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic, a family gathering, or a simple treat to enjoy at home. They are easy to make and will impress your friends and family with their beautiful layers and delicious flavors. Plus, they make great use of fresh summer peaches!

how to make Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups (350 g/12.5 oz) all-purpose flour
• 2/3 cup (140 g/5 oz) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/4 cups (280 g/10 oz) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
• 1/4 cup (50 g/1.7 oz) brown sugar, preferably dark
• 1 cup (200g/7 oz) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (35 g/1.3 oz) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 5 cups pitted, peeled, and chopped peaches (about 7-8 peaches/2.5 pounds)
• 6 tablespoons (90 ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, optional

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang on the sides to lift the bars out after baking. Set aside.

2. To make the crust: In a food processor, combine 2 1/2 cups of flour, 2/3 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Add the cold butter and pulse until the mixture is crumbly and resembles coarse meal. Alternatively, mix the ingredients in a bowl with a pastry cutter. Set aside 1 1/2 cups of the crumb mixture for the topping. Press the remaining crumbs firmly into the prepared pan to form the crust. Bake for about 15 minutes, until the edges are slightly browned.

3. While the crust is baking, prepare the streusel topping: Add brown sugar to the remaining crumb mixture and use your fingers to combine it until large clumps form.

4. Now, prepare the filling: In a large bowl, mix together 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of flour, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Add the chopped peaches and toss to combine. In a small bowl, mix the heavy cream and vanilla extract, then stir this into the peach mixture. Mix well.

5. Once the crust is done, pour the peach mixture over it while it’s still warm. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly on top. Bake the bars for about 45 minutes, until the juices bubble and the topping is golden brown.

6. Let the bars cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate them for at least 2 hours to set the filling before cutting them into squares. These bars can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

how to serve Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars

You can serve these bars cold or at room temperature. They are delicious on their own but can also be enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top for an added treat.

how to store Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about three days. You can also freeze them for longer storage, but be sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

tips to make Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars

• Use ripe peaches for the best flavor and sweetness.
• Feel free to mix in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a fun twist.
• If you prefer a thicker filling, use less cream in the peach mixture.

variation

For a different flavor, try adding some chopped nuts to the streusel topping for extra crunch. You can also switch the peaches with apples or cherries depending on the season.

FAQs

Can I use canned peaches for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned peaches, but make sure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the juices are bubbling, and the topping has turned a golden brown color.