Introduction to Peach Crumble Bars
Are you in search of a delightful treat that embodies the essence of summer? Look no further than Peach Crumble Bars! These bars are not only easy to make but are also the perfect combination of a buttery oat crumble topping and sweet, gooey peach filling. They’re a fantastic way to celebrate the juicy flavor of fresh peaches, especially during the peak season.
Why Peach Crumble Bars Are the Perfect Treat?
Imagine a warm afternoon, a cozy kitchen, and the invigorating aroma of baked peaches wafting through the air. That’s what these bars bring—a slice of comfort food that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Perfect for everything from picnics to casual gatherings, they’re a hit among friends and family alike. Plus, with their egg-free and gluten-free friendly options, you can cater to various dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.
Whether you enjoy them straight from the pan or served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, Peach Crumble Bars are bound to become a cherished recipe in your collection. So, gather your ingredients, and let's embark on this delicious journey together! For more information on the benefits of using oats in your baking, check out this detailed guide.
Ingredients for Peach Crumble Bars
Fresh Peaches
To create the star of your Peach Crumble Bars, you'll need about three medium-sized peaches, which should yield around three cups once pitted, peeled, and diced. Fresh peaches will add that perfect sweetness and juiciness that make this recipe truly delightful. Choose ripe, aromatic peaches for the best flavor—nothing compares to the taste of fresh fruit!
Dry Ingredients
The base of these bars consists of essential dry ingredients, including:
- 2 cups (180g) rolled oats
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup (160g) light brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
These ingredients come together to create a crumbly, buttery topping that perfectly complements the sweet peach filling.
Optional Flavor Enhancers
While the essential ingredients deliver fantastic flavor, consider adding a splash of:
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Fresh lemon zest
These optional boosts can elevate your Peach Crumble Bars, providing a warm, aromatic background that enhances the natural sweetness of the peaches. Why not experiment with these additions to make it your own?
Preparing Peach Crumble Bars
Making your very own Peach Crumble Bars is a delightful way to enjoy summer's stone fruit bounty. The process is simple and rewarding! Follow these steps to create scrumptious bars that are perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before diving into the recipe, take a moment to gather all your ingredients. For the best Peach Crumble Bars, you’ll need:
- 3 medium peaches (about 3 cups), pitted, peeled, and diced
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup light brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- Optional: 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract or fresh lemon zest
Having everything ready makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. You'll appreciate the ease when it comes time to mix and bake!
Prep the Peaches
Next up, let’s prep those luscious peaches! Peel and dice your peaches carefully, aiming for bite-sized pieces to distribute evenly throughout your bars. If you’d like, toss the diced peaches in a bowl with a touch of vanilla extract or lemon zest to enhance their natural sweetness. This little extra step compliments the sweet, gooey filling wonderfully and adds a delightful aroma to your kitchen.
Make the Crumble Mixture
Now, onto that irresistible crumble! In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, both sugars, baking soda, and spices. Mixing dry ingredients together first ensures they are evenly distributed. It’s vital for achieving that perfect crumble texture! Then, cut the softened butter into cubes and incorporate it into the dry mixture using a pastry blender or your fingers. You’re looking for a shaggy, crumbly dough that sticks together when pinched. This will provide the delicious topping for your bars.
Layer the Ingredients in the Baking Pan
With the peaches and crumble ready, it’s time to assemble your layers in a baking pan. Begin by scooping about two-thirds of the crumble mixture into your lined 9×9-inch pan. Press it firmly to form an even layer at the bottom. Disperse the peach mixture evenly over that layer, taking care not to touch the edges of the pan. Finally, sprinkle the remaining crumble on top, gently pressing it down to keep everything in place during baking.
Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
The grand finale is baking your Peach Crumble Bars to perfection! Pop your pan in a preheated oven set to 350℉. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the peach juices bubble up through the crumble. This means your bars are a gooey, juicy dream come true! Once baked, let them cool before slicing. Trust me, these bars will be a hit at any gathering or cozy night in!
Enjoy your homemade Peach Crumble Bars fresh out of the oven or a couple of days later—if they last that long!
Variations of Peach Crumble Bars
Gluten-free peach crumble bars
If you're looking for a gluten-free option for your peach crumble bars, it's a breeze! Just swap the all-purpose flour for a high-quality gluten-free flour blend (like this all-purpose gluten free flour). The result? Just as delicious, with the same crumbly topping and gooey filling that you love. Your friends and family won't even notice the difference!
Vegan peach crumble bars
Craving a plant-based twist? You can easily make vegan peach crumble bars by substituting regular butter with your favorite vegan butter (such as Earth Balance). This simple swap ensures a rich flavor while keeping it entirely dairy-free. Serve these bars at your next gathering, and watch as they quickly disappear!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Peach Crumble Bars
Consistency of Crumble
For the perfect Peach Crumble Bars, your crumble topping should have a texture reminiscent of coarse sand, with clumps that hold together when pinched. If it feels too dry, don’t hesitate to add a little extra melted butter to bring it all together. This ensures a deliciously buttery finish.
Potential Substitutions
Don’t shy away from experimentation! You can swap in coconut oil for a vegan alternative or use almond flour for a nutty twist. If peaches are out of season, try using fresh blueberries or cherries for a different flavor profile. Check out this guide on fruit substitutions for more ideas!
Serving Suggestions for Peach Crumble Bars
Best accompaniments
To elevate your Peach Crumble Bars, consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream — the creaminess contrasts beautifully with the buttery crumble. A drizzle of caramel sauce can add an extra layer of sweetness, while a sprinkle of chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans) brings a pleasant crunch. If you want a refreshing drink pairing, opt for a chilled glass of lemonade or iced tea to balance the dessert's sweetness.
Ideal serving temperature
For the best experience, serve your Peach Crumble Bars slightly warm or at room temperature. This allows the flavors to shine through and the buttery texture to be at its most appealing. If you're planning for later, just warm them briefly in the microwave — about 10-15 seconds will do the trick. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Time Breakdown for Peach Crumble Bars
Preparation time
The prep time for these delicious Peach Crumble Bars is approximately 30 minutes. This includes peeling and dicing the peaches, mixing the ingredients, and prepping your baking pan.
Cooking time
Bake the crumble for 45 minutes at 350℉ until the topping is beautifully golden brown and the peach filling starts bubbling.
Total time
In just 1 hour and 15 minutes, you’ll have warm and inviting Peach Crumble Bars ready to enjoy! Perfect for a sweet treat after dinner or a delightful addition to your afternoon coffee break.
For professional tips on preparing peach desserts, check out Food Network’s Guide on Peaches.
Nutritional Facts for Peach Crumble Bars
Calories
Each serving of these delicious peach crumble bars packs approximately 200 calories, making them a delightful treat that won't derail your healthy eating goals. Enjoy them as an afternoon snack or a post-dinner dessert without the guilt!
Sugar Content
With about 12 grams of sugar per bar, the sweetness comes from the ripe peaches and a touch of brown and granulated sugar. This balance of natural fruit sweetness with added sugars makes them satisfying yet not overly indulgent.
Dietary Fiber
You’ll also benefit from around 2 grams of dietary fiber per bar, thanks to the rolled oats and peaches. Fiber is essential for digestion and can help keep you feeling full longer, making these peach crumble bars a smart choice for a snack on the go!
FAQ about Peach Crumble Bars
Can I use frozen peaches?
Absolutely! Using frozen peaches is a great option. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before mixing with the other ingredients to prevent excess moisture in your filling. This way, you’ll still enjoy that sweet, gooey goodness in your Peach Crumble Bars.
How do I store leftovers?
To maintain freshness, it’s best to store your Peach Crumble Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to reheat gently in the oven for a warm treat!
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Definitely! Preparing your Peach Crumble Bars a day in advance is a fantastic idea, especially if you have a gathering planned. Just let them cool completely, then cover and store at room temperature. They'll be ready to impress when it’s time to serve! For tips on making them even more delicious, check out additional resources on baking with fruit.
Conclusion on Peach Crumble Bars
Summing up the joy of homemade treats
There's something truly special about homemade Peach Crumble Bars. They capture the essence of summer with their sweet, juicy filling and crumbly topping. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or enjoying solo, these bars offer a delightful taste of comfort, making any moment feel special. So why not indulge?
Peach Crumble Bars
Equipment
- 9x9-inch baking pan
- mixing bowls
- pastry blender
Ingredients
Peach Filling
- 3 medium peaches pitted, peeled, and diced
Crumble Topping
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup light brown sugar packed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract or fresh lemon zest (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350℉. Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving about an inch overhang on two sides. Set aside.
- Peel and chop the peaches and stir together with the vanilla or lemon zest in a medium mixing bowl, if using. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together the oats, flour, sugars, baking soda, and spices until well-combined.
- Cut the butter into cubes, then use a pastry blender or your fingers to gently knead the butter into the dry ingredients until completely incorporated, forming a shaggy, crumbly dough that sticks together when pinched.
- Scoop about two thirds of the crumble dough into the baking pan and press into an even layer along the bottom. Top with the peach mixture, being careful not to touch the sides of the pan.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over top, from edge to edge. Gently press the crumbs into the peach layer.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes, until the crumble topping is golden brown. The peach juices may bubble up through the crumbs. Remove from the oven and let cool before slicing into bars.
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