These Easy Peach Crumble Bars are a real treat! With juicy peaches and a buttery crumble on top, they make for a delicious snack or dessert that everyone will love.
They are so simple to whip up! Just mix, bake, and enjoy. I like to have mine with a scoop of ice cream on the side. Perfect for any peach lover out there! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness to the bars. If you’re in a pinch, you can use margarine or coconut oil. For a healthier alternative, unsweetened applesauce also works, but it will change the texture slightly.
Peaches: Fresh peaches are the star here, giving that lovely fruity flavor. If you can’t find fresh, use canned peaches. Just drain them well to avoid a soggy bottom.
Flour: All-purpose flour is standard, but you can use whole wheat flour for a heartier bar. I prefer using half whole wheat and half all-purpose for added nutrition.
Vanilla Extract: This adds warmth to the flavor. If you’re out, almond extract can be a nice substitute, but start with half the amount since it has a stronger flavor.
How Do I Make the Perfect Crumble Topping?
The crumble topping is what makes these bars so delightful! To achieve the best texture, ensure your butter is softened but not melted. Here’s how to get a great crumble:
- After mixing the butter and sugar, carefully add the flour and other dry ingredients until crumbly, without overmixing.
- Press down about two-thirds of the crumble mixture firmly into the pan for the base. It helps hold everything together.
- Evenly sprinkle the remaining crumble over the peach layer; don’t compact it too much, as you want it to stay light and crisp.
Keeping these tips in mind will ensure your crumble bars have that perfect balance of soft fruit and a crunchy topping! Enjoy your baking!
Easy Peach Crumble Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust and Crumble:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Peach Filling:
- 3 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced (or canned peaches, drained)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for peach topping)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 40-45 minutes of baking time. So, you’ll be enjoying these delicious Easy Peach Crumble Bars in under an hour, plus any cool-down time afterward!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang on the edges for easy lifting later.
2. Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and 1 cup of sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Then, add in the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly mixed. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, stirring gently until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Form the Crust:
Now, take about two-thirds of this dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This will be the crust layer, so really make sure it’s nice and even!
5. Prepare the Peach Filling:
In a medium bowl, toss the sliced peaches with 2 tablespoons of sugar, the lemon juice, and cinnamon (if you’re using it). Make sure all the peach slices are well coated, then spread this mixture evenly over your crust.
6. Add the Crumble Topping:
Next, take the remaining dough and crumble it evenly over the top of the peach layer. It’s okay if some peach slices peek through—those will get all delicious and bubbly as it bakes!
7. Bake It Up:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the peach filling is bubbly. Your kitchen will start smelling amazing!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once it’s cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and cut them into squares. Serve and enjoy!
These Easy Peach Crumble Bars are perfect for a cozy dessert or a sweet snack. Enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQ for Easy Peach Crumble Bars
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using to prevent a soggy crust. Pat them dry with a paper towel if needed.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or add a bit separately to mimic the texture of regular flour.
How Do I Store Leftover Bars?
Store leftover Easy Peach Crumble Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months; just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
Can I Add Other Fruits to the Filling?
Yes, feel free to mix in other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even apples! Just keep the total fruit volume around 3 cups to maintain the right balance in the bars.
