Peach Pie Crumble Bars

introduction

When summertime rolls around, there’s nothing quite like the sweetness of fresh peaches. Peach Pie Crumble Bars combine the delightful taste of peaches with a buttery shortbread base and a crunchy topping. They make a perfect dessert for any gathering or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home.

why make this recipe

These Peach Pie Crumble Bars are a delicious way to celebrate peach season. They offer a fantastic balance of sweet and tart flavors, making them a crowd-pleaser. The easy-to-follow steps make it simple even for novice bakers to whip up this treat. Plus, the combination of textures—soft peach filling, crumbly topping, and a crispy base—adds to the overall enjoyment of this dish.

how to make Peach Pie Crumble Bars

Ingredients:

• 1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2/3 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 3 cups chopped peaches (about 4-5 large peaches)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (or water)
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3/4 cup flour
• 1/4 cup large flake oats (quick oats or old-fashioned oats work too)
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4-5 tablespoons cream (or milk)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang.
2. Make the Shortbread Base: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1 1/4 cups of flour, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and salt. Stir in the melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of the pan and bake for 15 minutes.
3. Make the Peach Layer: While the base is baking, toss the chopped peaches with granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch until they are evenly coated.
4. Make the Crumble Topping: In another medium bowl, stir together 3/4 cup flour, oats, and brown sugar. Then add in the melted butter until it resembles wet sand.
5. Assemble: Spread the peach mixture on top of the baked shortbread base. Crumble the topping over the peach layer by squeezing it in your palms.
6. Bake the bars in the preheated oven at 350°F for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
7. Allow the bars to cool fully.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cream until smooth. Adjust with more cream or powdered sugar as needed.
9. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars.

how to serve Peach Pie Crumble Bars

These bars can be served warm or at room temperature. For added indulgence, you can serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side.

how to store Peach Pie Crumble Bars

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before putting them in a container.

tips to make Peach Pie Crumble Bars

• Choose ripe peaches for the best flavor.
• You can easily substitute other fruits like blueberries or apples if you want a variation.
• If your peaches are not in season, you can use frozen peaches but ensure they are fully thawed and drained of excess moisture.

variation

You can try adding nuts like pecans or walnuts to the crumble topping for extra crunch. You may also spice things up by adding a pinch of nutmeg or using different spices in the filling.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned peaches?
Yes, you can use canned peaches, but be sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

2. How can I make the bars gluten-free?
To make them gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

3. Can I make the bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make these bars a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator and allow them to come to room temperature before serving.