Peach Pie Bars Tasty Summer Dessert Recipe

Summer is the perfect time for juicy peaches, and I’m excited to share my Peach Pie Bars recipe with you! These bars combine sweet, tender peaches with a buttery crust, making them a delightful treat. Whether you’re enjoying a sunny picnic or hosting a casual gathering, these Peach Pie Bars are sure to impress. Ready to dive into this tasty summer dessert? Let’s get started!

Ingredients

Fresh Ingredient List

– 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced

– 1 cup granulated sugar, divided

Pantry Staples

– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

– ½ teaspoon baking powder

– ½ teaspoon salt

Flavor Enhancers

– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

– 1 large egg, beaten

– 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional)

You can make these peach pie bars with fresh, juicy peaches. I love using ripe peaches because they make the bars so sweet. The sugar helps balance the tartness of the fruit.

You will need some pantry staples like flour, baking powder, and salt. These create the base for the crust. It is simple but essential.

Next, flavor enhancers bring everything together. The lemon juice brightens the taste, while vanilla adds sweetness. Cinnamon and nutmeg give warmth and depth.

Don’t forget the butter and egg. They add richness and help bind the crust. If you want a thicker filling, add cornstarch.

For the full recipe, you can check the complete guide on preparing these delightful bars. Enjoy the sweet summer taste of peach pie bars!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation

– Step 1: Preheat the oven

First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking.

– Step 2: Prepare the peach filling

In a medium bowl, take 2 cups of fresh peaches, peeled and diced. Add ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and ½ teaspoon of nutmeg. If you want a thicker filling, add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Mix this well and let it sit. This helps the peaches absorb the flavors.

Making the Crust

– Step 3: Mix dry ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and the remaining ½ cup of sugar. This makes a tasty base for your bars.

– Step 4: Combine wet ingredients

In another bowl, mix ½ cup of melted butter with 1 beaten egg until it’s smooth. Then, pour this mix into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Don’t overmix to keep the crust tender.

Assembling the Bars

– Step 5: Reserve crumb mixture, press crust

Set aside about 1 cup of the crumb mixture for later. Press the rest evenly into the bottom of your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. This will form the solid crust layer.

– Step 6: Spread peach filling and add topping

Carefully spread the peach filling over the crust. Make sure it’s even. Then, sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture on top for a nice finish.

– Step 7: Bake and cool

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The top should be golden brown and the filling bubbly. Once done, let it cool for at least 20 minutes in the pan. Then, lift the bars out using the parchment paper. Cut them into squares once they cool completely.

For the full recipe, check the instructions above. Enjoy your peach pie bars!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting Your Peach Pie Bars

Choosing ripe peaches

Choose peaches that are slightly soft. They should smell sweet and fragrant. Ripe peaches give the best flavor. Avoid hard or overly soft peaches as they may not bake well.

Avoiding a soggy crust

To prevent a soggy crust, bake the crust before adding the filling. Press it firmly into the dish. This step creates a barrier. It keeps the juices from soaking in. Also, use cornstarch in the peach filling. It helps absorb excess liquid.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with ice cream or whipped cream

Serve your peach pie bars with vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess pairs well with warm bars. Whipped cream is another great option for a light touch. Both add a delightful contrast to the sweet peaches.

Presentation tips using powdered sugar

Dust the bars with powdered sugar right before serving. This adds a nice touch and makes them look fancy. For a colorful twist, add some fresh mint leaves on top.

Customization Ideas

Adding spices or other fruit

Feel free to add spices to the filling. A pinch of ginger or cloves can enhance the flavor. You can also mix in berries for extra sweetness. Strawberries or blueberries work well with peaches.

Gluten-free and vegan alternatives

For gluten-free bars, use almond flour or oat flour. Replace the egg with a flax egg for a vegan option. This makes the recipe suitable for everyone. You can still enjoy peach pie bars with these simple swaps.

Variations

Flavor Variations

You can add fun flavors to your peach pie bars. Try mixing in berries like blueberries or raspberries. They add a pop of color and taste great with peaches. You can also use other fruits like cherries or nectarines. Each fruit gives a new twist to the classic recipe.

Spices can also change the flavor. Adding ginger gives a warm kick to the bars. For a fragrant touch, try cardamom. A little goes a long way. It pairs well with peaches and brings out their sweetness.

Dietary Variations

If you need gluten-free options, almond or oat flour works well. These flours give a nice texture and flavor. Just swap the all-purpose flour with your choice. You can still enjoy delicious bars without gluten.

For vegan peach pie bars, replace the egg and butter. Use a flax egg made from ground flaxseed and water. Coconut oil or plant-based butter can substitute for regular butter. Your bars will taste just as amazing without animal products.

Unique Twists

Want something different? Try cheesecake peach pie bars. Add cream cheese to the filling for a rich, creamy taste. Swirl it into the peach mixture for a fun look.

You can also play with the topping. Instead of a crumb topping, add a crumble made from oats and nuts. This gives a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft filling. There are endless ways to make your peach pie bars exciting!

For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].

Storage Info

Storage Guidelines

Store your peach pie bars in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh. If you have leftovers, use parchment paper between layers. This prevents them from sticking together.

Freezing Tips

Yes, you can freeze peach pie bars! Wrap each bar in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer bag. This method keeps them tasty for up to three months. When you are ready to eat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight. You can also reheat them in the oven for a warm treat.

Shelf Life

Peach pie bars last about a week in the fridge. Check for signs of spoilage. If you see mold or an off smell, it’s best to toss them. Keeping your bars stored properly helps them stay fresh longer. Enjoy your peachy paradise!

FAQs

Common Questions

How do I know when peach pie bars are done?

You can tell when peach pie bars are done by checking the top. Look for a golden brown color. You should also see the peach filling bubbling around the edges. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use canned peaches. Just make sure to drain them well. Canned peaches often have added sugar, so you may want to cut back on the sugar in your filling.

Related Searches

What’s the best way to cut peach pie bars?

To cut peach pie bars neatly, let them cool completely first. Use a sharp knife and make clean, straight cuts. You can also use a ruler to help keep your pieces even. For a fun touch, serve the bars on a decorative plate.

Can I use a different fruit for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap peaches for other fruits. Try berries, apples, or pears. Each fruit brings its own flavor and texture, making it a fun experiment. Just adjust the sugar based on your chosen fruit’s sweetness.

Troubleshooting

What should I do if my filling is too runny?

If your filling is runny, you can add cornstarch. Mix it in with the peaches before baking. If they are already baked, you can bake them a bit longer. This helps thicken the filling as it cools.

Why did my crust crumble?

A crumbling crust often means the dough is too dry. Ensure you measure your ingredients correctly. Adding a touch of water or more butter can help. Don’t overmix the dough, as that can also lead to crumbling.

In this blog post, we covered how to make delicious peach pie bars from scratch. We explored the fresh ingredients needed, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips to perfect your bars. Don’t forget about the variations and storage tips to keep your treats fresh. My final thought is that these peach pie bars are a fun treat you can customize for any occasion. Enjoy sharing them with friends and family!

Peach Pie Bars

Indulge in the sweet and tangy goodness of Peachy Paradise Pie Bars! This easy recipe combines fresh peaches, warm spices, and a buttery crust for a delightful treat that's perfect for summer. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dessert that will wow your family and friends. Don't miss out on this deliciousness – click through for the full recipe and get ready to bake a slice of paradise!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  

2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced

1 cup granulated sugar, divided

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

1 large egg, beaten

1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for a thicker filling)

Instructions

 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.

In a medium bowl, combine the diced peaches with ½ cup of granulated sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch (if using). Mix well until the peaches are completely coated. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the crust.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and the remaining ½ cup of sugar until well combined.

In a separate bowl, mix together the melted and slightly cooled butter with the beaten egg, stirring until smooth. Pour this wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Reserve approximately 1 cup of the crumb mixture for later topping. Press the remaining crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a solid crust layer.

Evenly spread the peach filling over the crust, ensuring an attractive and even layer. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the peach filling for a delightful topping.

Bake the bars in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the peach filling is bubbling around the edges.

Once baked, allow the dish to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes. Carefully lift the bars out using the overhanging parchment paper. Transfer to a wire rack and cut into squares once they are completely cool.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 12 bars

- Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, arrange the peach pie bars on a decorative platter. Dust lightly with powdered sugar and serve alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a decadent finish.