Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s as comforting as a hug from a friend, then these Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars are just the thing! This recipe has been a favorite in my home for years, bringing smiles to family gatherings and busy weeknights alike. The combination of juicy peaches and creamy goodness, all nestled under a crumbly topping, makes this dessert irresistible. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying during a cozy night in.

These bars are not only delicious but also easy to whip up, making them a go-to whenever I need a quick dessert. Whether it’s summer picnics or chilly winter evenings, these Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars always hit the spot!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, anyone can master this recipe in no time.
• Family-approved: The delightful blend of flavors makes these bars a hit with both kids and adults.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special celebration, these bars will shine on any table.
• Make ahead convenience: You can prepare them in advance and simply refrigerate until serving—perfect for busy days!
• Delicious flavor: The combination of fresh peaches and creamy goodness creates a delightful taste that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! You’ll find that most of them are pantry staples, making it super easy to throw together this delicious dessert whenever the craving strikes.

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 Streusel 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add some berries: Toss in some blueberries or raspberries along with the peaches for an extra burst of flavor.
• Use different fruits: Swap out peaches for plums or nectarines if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Try nutty toppings: Add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts to the streusel topping for added crunch.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute 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. Leaving some overhang will make it easier to lift the bars out after baking!

Step 2: Make the Crust

In your food processor, combine flour, granulated sugar, and salt until just mixed. Then add cold butter cubes and pulse until it resembles coarse meal. If you don’t have a food processor, no worries! You can mix everything in a bowl using a pastry cutter. Remember to set aside 1½ cups of this mixture for later!

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Take the remaining crumb mixture and sprinkle it into your prepared pan. Press firmly into an even layer to form your crust. Bake this beautiful base for about 15 minutes until you see those edges start turning golden brown.

Step 4: Prepare the Streusel Topping

While your crust is baking, mix brown sugar into the reserved crumb mixture until you form large clumps of dough. This will give your topping that delightful texture we love!

Step 5: Create the Filling

In a large bowl, mix together sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Add those luscious chopped peaches and toss gently to coat them evenly. In another small bowl, whisk together heavy cream and vanilla extract before stirring that into the peach mixture.

Step 6: Assemble Your Bars

Pour that scrumptious peach filling over your warm crust and spread it out evenly. Now sprinkle your prepared streusel topping generously over everything—it’s going to be so good!

Step 7: Bake Until Perfect

Bake those bars in your preheated oven for about 45 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the juice is bubbling around the edges and the topping is beautifully golden brown.

Step 8: Cool Down Time

Allow your masterpiece to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing them into squares. Patience pays off here! For best results, refrigerate for at least two hours before indulging.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars! They keep well in the refrigerator for about three days—if they last that long!

Pro Tips for Making Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars

Making the perfect Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars is all about attention to detail and a few handy tips that can elevate your baking game!

• Use cold butter: Starting with cold butter ensures that your crust and crumble topping stay nice and flaky. It doesn’t melt into the mixture right away, giving you that delightful texture.

• Don’t skip the chilling time: Allowing the bars to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours after baking helps the filling set properly. This way, when you cut them into squares, they hold their shape beautifully!

• Fresh peaches are best: While frozen peaches can work in a pinch, using fresh, ripe peaches adds unbeatable flavor and sweetness to your bars. Aim for perfectly juicy peaches for the best results!

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to customize the filling by adding a pinch of nutmeg or even some lemon zest. These small additions can enhance the fruity flavor and make the bars uniquely yours.

• Adjust sugar levels: Depending on your preference or the sweetness of your peaches, you might want to adjust the sugar in both the filling and streusel. Taste as you go to find the perfect balance!

How to Serve Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars

These Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars are not just delicious—they’re also visually appealing! Here are some delightful ways to present this treat.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, creamy element that complements the fruitiness perfectly.
• Chopped mint leaves: Fresh mint leaves not only add a pop of color but also provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bars.
• Toasted almonds: Sprinkling some toasted almonds on top adds a nice crunch while enhancing both flavor and texture.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream creates a delicious contrast in temperature and texture, making each bite even more indulgent.
• Greek yogurt: A side of tangy Greek yogurt pairs nicely with the sweetness of these bars, adding creaminess without overpowering their flavor.
• Fresh fruit salad: A bright fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the richness of the crumble bars.
• Herbal tea: Enjoying these bars with a warm cup of herbal tea makes for a cozy dessert experience, perfect for any gathering or quiet afternoon treat.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll impress your friends and family with not just how tasty these Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars are but also how beautifully presented they can be! Enjoy every crumb!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy a sweet treat whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.

Freezing

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm bars, place them on a baking sheet and heat in a preheated oven at 350F (180C) for about 10 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave individual bars for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries about making these delightful Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars.

Can I use frozen peaches for the Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars?

Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just ensure they are thawed and drained of excess moisture before mixing them into the filling.

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

The bars are ready when the juice is bubbling around the edges and the topping has turned a lovely golden brown.

Can I substitute ingredients in the Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars recipe?

Absolutely! You can replace heavy cream with coconut cream or any non-dairy alternative. For added flavor, try using almond extract instead of vanilla.

What’s the best way to serve Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars?

These bars taste wonderful on their own but pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped coconut cream for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up these delightful Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars! They’re perfect for sharing with friends or savoring all on your own. Enjoy every bite of this sweet, comforting dessert, and don’t hesitate to try out any variations that suit your taste. Happy baking!