Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! These Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars are a delightful blend of sweet, juicy peaches and creamy goodness, all wrapped up in a buttery crumble. They are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family gathering, needing a quick treat for weeknight dinners, or simply craving something comforting on a lazy afternoon.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create something truly special. Once you take that first bite of these bars, you’ll understand why they have become a staple in my home. Let’s dive into the details!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal fuss, anyone can whip these bars up quickly.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: These bars are guaranteed to please both kids and adults alike. Who doesn’t love peaches and cream?
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them ahead of time and store them in the fridge for an easy dessert option during the week.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh peaches with the creamy filling is simply irresistible. Each bite is bursting with flavor!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy for these Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars—just some simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Crust:

• 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

For the Topping:

• 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

For the Filling:

• 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)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with different flavors or ingredients to suit your taste.

• Mix in Berries: Add blueberries or raspberries for an extra fruity twist.
• Try Different Fruits: Substitute peaches with plums or nectarines if you’re looking for variety.
• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumble topping for added crunch.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Swap out all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs.

How to Make Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350F (180C). Grease a 9×13-inch pan or line it with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal once your delicious bars are baked!

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a food processor, combine flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Pulse until mixed well. Then add cold butter cubes and pulse until you see crumbly bits forming—a texture similar to coarse meal is what we want! Set aside 1½ cups of this mixture for later use. Spread the remaining crumbs evenly into your pan and press down firmly to form an even layer. Bake for about 15 minutes until the edges start turning golden brown; this creates a sturdy base for our luscious filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Streusel Topping

Once your crust is baking away in the oven, it’s time to prepare the streusel topping! Add brown sugar to the reserved crumb mixture and use your fingers to mix until large clumps form. This will create those delightful crunchy bits that everyone loves on top of desserts!

Step 4: Create the Filling

In another bowl, mix together granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Add in those lovely chopped peaches and toss gently so they’re coated evenly. In a small bowl, combine heavy cream and vanilla extract—if using—and then stir that into your peach mixture until everything is nicely blended together.

Step 5: Assemble Everything

Once your crust comes out of the oven while still warm (to help meld those flavors), pour your peach mixture over it evenly. Then sprinkle that beautiful streusel topping over everything—you want to cover those peaches nicely!

Step 6: Bake It All Together

Pop everything back into the oven for about 45 minutes until you see bubbling juices around the edges and that golden-brown topping on top—trust me; it smells heavenly!

Step 7: Cool Down Time

Let your scrumptious bars cool completely on a wire rack before cutting them into squares. Patience is key here as cooling helps set that delicious filling.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Refrigerate those bars for at least two hours before diving in—you’ll be rewarded with perfect squares of peachy goodness! These yummy treats will stay fresh in your fridge for up to three days… if they last that long!

Pro Tips for Making Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with a few helpful tips, you can ensure your Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars turn out perfectly every time!

• Use ripe peaches: Ripe peaches not only enhance the flavor of your bars but also provide a juicy texture that complements the creamy filling. Look for peaches that yield slightly when gently pressed.
• Chill the butter: Starting with cold butter helps create that light, crumbly texture in your crust. If you forget to chill it beforehand, just pop it in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before cutting.
• Don’t skip refrigerating: Allowing the bars to cool completely and refrigerate for at least 2 hours helps the filling set properly, making it easier to cut into neat squares without losing their shape.
• Mix filling carefully: When combining the heavy cream and vanilla with your peach mixture, be gentle. Over-mixing can break down the fruit too much, leading to a mushy filling rather than a delightful burst of peach goodness.
• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon adds warmth, don’t hesitate to add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of flavor that beautifully complements the sweetness of peaches.

How to Serve Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars

Serving your Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars is all about presentation and pairing them with delightful accompaniments that enhance their flavor. Here are some ideas to elevate your dessert experience!

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A few sprigs of mint add a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the sweet bars.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option that’s just as creamy, top each bar with whipped coconut cream for added richness.
• Sliced almonds or pecans: Sprinkling some nuts on top offers a lovely crunch that complements the soft texture of the crumble bars.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream paired with warm crumble bars creates a classic dessert duo that’s hard to resist.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad mixed with seasonal berries provides a refreshing contrast while keeping things fruity and fun.
• Yogurt parfait: Layering yogurt with some granola and fresh fruits makes for a great breakfast or brunch side that balances out the sweetness of the bars.
• Tea or coffee: Serving these bars alongside a cup of herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee makes for an elegant touch, perfect for afternoon gatherings or cozy evenings in.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your delicious Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars in style! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week, making dessert planning a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• To maintain freshness, ensure they are cooled completely before sealing.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into squares before freezing for easy serving.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking them to prevent sticking.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Alternatively, warm them in an oven preheated to 350°F (180°C) for about 10 minutes.
• Enjoy them warm for that freshly baked taste!

FAQs

If you have questions about making Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use fresh peaches for Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars?

Absolutely! Fresh peaches are ideal for this recipe. Just ensure they are ripe and sweet for the best flavor.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars?

You can use coconut cream or a non-dairy milk alternative like almond or oat milk mixed with a little cornstarch to achieve a similar creamy consistency.

How do I know when my Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars are done?

The bars are ready when the juices bubble around the edges and the topping is golden brown.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it includes xanthan gum or add it separately.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars! They’re not only mouthwatering but also a wonderful way to enjoy seasonal peaches. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or indulging on your own, they’re sure to bring comfort and happiness. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations!