Heavenly Summer Peach Bars

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Introduction

Indulge in the delightful taste of summer with these Heavenly Summer Peach Bars. Perfectly ripe peaches combine with a buttery crust and a sweet crumb topping, making these bars a must-have for your summer gatherings. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these bars will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Ingredients

  • Crust:
    • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
  • Filling:
    • 3-4 large peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced
    • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
    • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
    • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Crumb Topping:
    • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
    • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
    • 1/4 cup brown sugar
    • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
  2. Prepare the Crust:
    • In a medium bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
    • Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
    • Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly.
  3. Make the Filling:
    • In a large bowl, combine the sliced peaches, sugar, flour, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Toss gently to coat the peaches evenly.
  4. Prepare the Crumb Topping:
    • In a separate bowl, mix together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture forms a crumbly texture.
  5. Assemble the Bars:
    • Spread the peach filling evenly over the pre-baked crust.
    • Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the peaches.
  6. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
    • Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and cut into squares.
  7. Serve:
    • Dust the top with powdered sugar before serving, if desired. Enjoy these bars on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Key Takeaway

These Heavenly Summer Peach Bars are a perfect blend of sweet and tart, with a buttery crust and crumbly topping that will make them a hit at any summer gathering. Simple to make and delicious to eat, they capture the essence of summer in every bite.

Conclusion

Heavenly Summer Peach Bars are an exquisite treat that encapsulates the essence of summer. With their rich, buttery crust, juicy peach filling, and delightful crumb topping, these bars are sure to impress your family and friends. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, they offer a taste of sunshine in every bite. Whether enjoyed at a picnic, a barbecue, or a casual get-together, these peach bars are a testament to the delicious flavors of the season. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this sweet, refreshing dessert and savor the delightful taste of summer.

Notes and FAQs

Notes:

  • Choosing Peaches: Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor. If fresh peaches are out of season, you can substitute with frozen peaches, ensuring they are thawed and well-drained.
  • Crust Consistency: Ensure the butter for the crust is cold to achieve a flaky and tender base.
  • Storing the Bars: Store the peach bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Serving Suggestions: These bars are delicious on their own but can be enhanced by serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

FAQs:

  1. Can I use canned peaches?
    • Yes, canned peaches can be used if fresh or frozen peaches are unavailable. Be sure to drain them thoroughly and consider reducing the sugar in the filling slightly, as canned peaches are often packed in syrup.
  2. Can I add other fruits to the filling?
    • Absolutely! Mixing peaches with other summer fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries can create a delicious mixed fruit bar.
  3. What if I don’t have a 9×9 inch baking pan?
    • An 8×8 inch pan can be used for thicker bars, but you may need to increase the baking time slightly. Alternatively, a 9×13 inch pan can be used for thinner bars; reduce the baking time accordingly.
  4. How do I know when the bars are done baking?
    • The bars are ready when the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
  5. Can I make the bars gluten-free?
    • Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend is suitable for baking and includes xanthan gum or a similar binding agent.
  6. Do I need to peel the peaches?
    • Peeling the peaches is recommended for a smoother filling, but it is not necessary. If you prefer to keep the skins on, ensure the peaches are thoroughly washed before slicing.

These notes and FAQs should help you create the perfect Heavenly Summer Peach Bars every time. Enjoy baking and savoring this delightful summer treat!

 

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