These Easy Peach Crumble Bars have a yummy sweet crust and juicy peach filling that is sure to please everyone. They’re simple to make and perfect for dessert or a snack!
Making these bars is a fun way to enjoy fresh peaches. I love how the crust gets nice and golden while the filling bubbles. Trust me, you’ll want to grab a second piece! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are perfect for this recipe, adding a juicy sweetness. If fresh peaches aren’t available, you can use canned or frozen peaches. Just be sure to drain canned peaches or thaw and drain frozen ones to avoid excess moisture.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you more control over the sweetness of the bars. If you need a dairy-free option, try using coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. Both work well to keep the crust rich and flavorful.
Granulated Sugar: While granulated sugar is standard, feel free to substitute with light brown sugar for a deeper flavor or use coconut sugar for a healthier option. Just note that it may alter the color slightly.
Cornstarch: This is used to thicken the peach filling. If you’re out of cornstarch, you can replace it with all-purpose flour, though it may not thicken as well.
How Can I Get My Crust Just Right?
Getting a perfect crust is key to these bars. When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, stop as soon as they combine. You want a crumbly texture for the crust and topping. Overmixing can lead to a tougher crust.
- Keep your butter softened but not melted. This helps create a fluffy texture when creamed with sugar.
- When pressing the crust into the pan, do it evenly and firmly, ensuring there are no gaps. This prevents the filling from leaking through.
- Don’t skip on chilling the bars after baking. Letting them cool completely helps them set, so they cut into neat squares.
These tips will help you make the most delicious peach crumble bars! Enjoy baking!
Easy Peach Crumble Bars with Sweet Crust
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust and Topping:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Peach Filling:
- 4–5 ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced (about 4 cups)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 45-50 minutes to bake. After baking, allow the bars to cool completely, which may take another hour. In total, you’re looking at about 2 hours from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prep:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan, or you can line it with parchment paper for easy removal later on. This will help prevent sticking!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to combine them evenly so the bars rise properly.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer until the mixture is creamy and a light golden color. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla:
Now, add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until everything is well combined and smooth.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until you achieve a crumbly texture that holds together when pressed. Don’t overmix; you want it slightly crumbly!
6. Press the Crust:
Take about two-thirds of the dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. This will be your delicious crust!
7. Prepare the Peach Filling:
In a separate bowl, toss the peach slices with brown sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch until they’re well coated. This sweet mixture will create a lovely filling.
8. Layer the Peach Filling:
Spread the peach mixture evenly over the crust layer in the pan, ensuring each bite will have juicy peaches!
9. Add the Crumble Topping:
Now, crumble the remaining dough on top of the peach layer. This topping will create a beautiful crispy texture. Make sure it’s evenly scattered across the filling!
10. Bake the Bars:
Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
11. Cool Before Serving:
Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This is important for them to set properly so you can cut nice squares!
12. Serve & Enjoy:
Cut into squares and serve as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. Enjoy your delicious Easy Peach Crumble Bars with that sweet, buttery crust and luscious peach filling!
Happy baking! 🍑
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Peaches for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen peaches work well in this recipe! Just be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture before mixing them with the sugar and cornstarch to prevent the bars from becoming soggy.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the granulated and brown sugar by about ¼ cup each. You can also use ripe peaches, which are naturally sweet, to balance the flavors without adding too much sugar.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) instead of the egg, and choose plant-based sugar options. Your bars will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftover Bars?
Store any leftover peach crumble bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to freeze them, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature when ready to enjoy!
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions. Happy baking! 🍑
