Why Make This Recipe
Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars are a delicious treat that combine the sweetness of ripe peaches with a buttery crumble. These bars are perfect for summer picnics, family gatherings, or just a cozy dessert at home. With a crispy crust and a creamy filling, they are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them. Plus, they are easy to make and can be enjoyed both warm and chilled.
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
Note: The filling should be poured on a hot or warm crust, so be sure to prepare it while the crust is baking in the oven.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang on the sides for lifting the bars out after baking. Set aside.
To make the crust: Process the flour, granulated sugar, and salt in a food processor for a few seconds until combined. Add the butter and pulse until the mixture becomes crumbly and resembles coarse meal. Alternatively, you can use a bowl and a pastry cutter to crumble the ingredients together. Set aside 1½ cups of the crumb mixture for the topping. Sprinkle the remaining crumbs into the prepared pan and press them firmly into an even layer to form a crust. Bake for about 15 minutes, until the edges are slightly browned.
While the crust is baking, make the streusel topping and filling.
To make the streusel topping: Add the brown sugar to the remaining crumb mixture and toss with your fingers to combine until large clumps of dough are formed.
To make the filling: In a large bowl, mix together the sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Add the chopped peaches and toss to combine. In a small bowl, combine the heavy cream and vanilla extract, then stir into the peach mixture. Mix well.
Pour the peach mixture over the warm crust and sprinkle the streusel topping evenly on top.
Bake the bars for about 45 minutes, until the juice is bubbling and the topping is golden brown. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack.
Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to let the filling set before cutting into squares.
Bars will keep for 3 days in the refrigerator.
How to Serve Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars
Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars can be served fresh out of the oven, slightly warm, or chilled after refrigerating. They can be enjoyed plain or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
How to Store Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars
To store the bars, place them 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 them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars
- Use fresh, ripe peaches for the best flavor.
- For added texture, consider mixing in some nuts, like chopped pecans or walnuts, into the crumble topping.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar to the peach filling, based on your preference.
Variation
You can switch things up by using different fruits in place of peaches. Berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, can also work well. Just be mindful of the sugar content, as some fruits are sweeter than others.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen peaches for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess liquid in the filling.
2. How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the juices are bubbling and the crumble topping is golden brown.
3. Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the crust ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake the bars.