Summertime always calls for a ripe, juicy peach and what better way to enjoy them than in a dessert? These peaches and cream bars are a delicious blend of a crunchy crust, succulent peaches, and a creamy topping. It's an irresistible combination that's sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Photos of Peaches and Cream Bars Recipe
The ingredients required in this recipe are commonly found in most supermarkets. However, keep an eye out for ripe peaches. They should be firm, but yield to gentle pressure. Unripe peaches can be ripened at home, but ripe peaches will give the best flavor. Also, note that we are using old fashioned rolled oats, not quick oats, for the best texture.
Peaches and Cream Bars Ingredients
All-purpose flour: A common baking ingredient that provides structure.
Old fashioned rolled oats: These give texture to the crust and topping.
Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture.
Ground cinnamon: For a hint of warmth.
Unsalted butter: Gives the crust and topping a rich flavor.
Pecans: Adds crunch to the topping.
Egg: Binds the peach filling together.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the peach filling.
Peaches: The star ingredient! Choose ripe for best flavor.
Confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens the icing.
Milk: Thins out the icing.
Pure vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors.
One reader, Ilsa Valladares says:
These peaches and cream bars are a delightful treat! The buttery crust perfectly complements the sweet peach filling, and the vanilla icing adds a lovely finishing touch. They're easy to make and taste absolutely divine. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a delightful dessert!
Techniques Required for Making Peaches and Cream Bars
How to prepare the crust and topping: Combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a large bowl. Cut in the cold butter until it reaches coarse, pea-sized crumbs. Reserve a portion of the mixture to mix with pecans for the topping.
How to prepare the peach filling: Whisk the egg and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the flour and salt, then fold in the peaches.
How to bake the bars: Press the oat mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan and bake for 15 minutes. After preparing the peach filling, pour it over the hot crust, sprinkle with the reserved oat-pecan mixture, and bake for an additional 30 to 32 minutes until golden brown on top.
How to make the vanilla icing: Whisk the confectioners’ sugar, milk, and vanilla extract together until smooth. Add 1 tablespoon of milk to thin out if needed, then drizzle over each square before serving.
How To Make Peaches and Cream Bars
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these peaches and cream bars that have layers of crumbly oat and pecan crust, fruity peach filling, and fluffy vanilla icing.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Crust and Topping:
- 1cupall-purpose flour,spoon and leveled
- ½cupold fashioned rolled oats,or quick oats
- ⅓cupbrown sugar,packed light or dark
- 1tspground cinnamon
- 10tbspunsalted butter,cold and cubed
- ½cuppecans,chopped, optional
For Peach Filling:
- 1largeegg
- ½cupgranulated sugar
- 1tbspall-purpose flour
- ¼tspsalt
- 2medium peaches,(about 1½ cups), peeled and chopped
For Vanilla Icing:
- ½cupconfectioners’ sugar
- 1tbspmilk
- ½tsppure vanilla extract
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line the bottom and sides of an 8 or 9-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil or parchment, leaving an overhang on all sides to easily lift the bars out of the pan before cutting.
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Spray with nonstick spray or grease with butter. Set aside.
Crust and Topping:
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In a large bowl, whisk the flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon together until combined. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or 2 forks until it reaches coarse, pea-sized crumbs.
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Remove ¾ cup of the mixture, put in a small bowl, and mix with pecans. Set aside for the topping.
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Evenly press the remaining oat mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
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Bake for 15 minutes while preparing the filling.
Peach Filling:
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Whisk the egg and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the flour and salt. Whisk until combined. Fold in the peaches.
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Remove crust from the oven and pour the filling over hot crust. Sprinkle with reserved oat-pecan mixture.
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Bake for 30 to 32 minutes or until golden brown on top. Allow to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 30 minutes. Transfer to the refrigerator and allow to chill for 2 hours.
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Once chilled, lift the foil out of the pan using the overhang on the sides and cut into squares.
Vanilla Icing:
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Using a fork or spoon, whisk the confectioners’ sugar, cream, and vanilla extract together until smooth.
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Add 1 tablespoon of milk to thin out if needed. Drizzle over each square.
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Serve and enjoy.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250.52kcal
- Fat: 13.41g
- Saturated Fat: 6.55g
- Trans Fat: 0.39g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.43g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.48g
- Carbohydrates: 31.24g
- Fiber: 1.50g
- Sugar: 19.57g
- Protein: 2.88g
- Cholesterol: 41.07mg
- Sodium: 57.87mg
- Calcium: 19.90mg
- Potassium: 105.25mg
- Iron: 0.97mg
- Vitamin A: 92.34µg
- Vitamin C: 1.70mg
Helpful Technique for Perfecting Peaches and Cream Bars
When preparing the peach filling, make sure to choose ripe peaches for the best flavor. However, they shouldn't be overly ripe or they may make the filling too wet. To easily peel the peaches, you can blanch them in boiling water for about 30 seconds and then immediately transfer them to ice water. The skin should then easily slip off. This will ensure a smooth and delicious filling for your peaches and cream bars.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Peaches and Cream Bars Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare the crust and topping the night before and store it in the refrigerator. This will save you time on the day of baking.
Use canned peaches: If fresh peaches are not available, using canned peaches can save time on peeling and slicing.
Multi-task: While the bars are baking, prepare the vanilla icing to save time.
Organize ingredients: Before starting the recipe, gather and organize all the ingredients and equipment needed to streamline the cooking process.
Chill the bars: Place the bars in the freezer for a shorter chilling time if you're in a hurry.
Substitute Ingredients For Peaches and Cream Bars Recipe
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor and extra nutrients to the crust and topping, while still providing the necessary structure.
old fashioned rolled oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes can provide a similar texture and nutty flavor to the crust and topping, while adding extra protein and nutrients.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can offer a similar sweetness and caramel-like flavor to the crust and topping, while providing a lower glycemic index.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a rich flavor and moisture to the crust and topping, while being a suitable vegan alternative.
pecans - Substitute with almonds: Almonds can provide a similar nutty flavor and crunch to the crust and topping, while offering a slightly different taste profile.
large egg - Substitute with flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water): A flaxseed egg can act as a binding agent similar to a regular egg, making it suitable for those following a vegan or egg-free diet.
granulated sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can offer a natural sweetness and depth of flavor to the peach filling, while adding a touch of caramel notes.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can act as a thickening agent for the peach filling, providing a smooth texture and glossy appearance.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a rich and creamy texture to the vanilla icing, while offering a dairy-free alternative.
confectioners’ sugar - Substitute with powdered coconut sugar: Powdered coconut sugar can offer a similar sweetness and texture to the vanilla icing, while providing a lower glycemic index and a hint of caramel flavor.
Presentation Ideas for Peaches and Cream Bars
Elevate the plating: When presenting the peaches and cream bars, focus on creating a visually appealing arrangement. Use a rectangular plate to showcase the bars, and consider adding a dusting of powdered sugar around the edges for a touch of elegance.
Incorporate fresh peach slices: Enhance the visual appeal by adding thinly sliced peaches on the plate. This not only adds a pop of color but also emphasizes the key ingredient of the dish.
Utilize a drizzle technique for the icing: Instead of simply spreading the vanilla icing, employ a drizzling technique to create an artistic design on the plate. This adds a professional touch and showcases the attention to detail.
Garnish with mint leaves: Introduce a touch of greenery by garnishing the plate with small, strategically placed mint leaves. This not only adds a refreshing element but also contributes to the overall presentation.
Consider the use of edible flowers: Elevate the presentation by incorporating delicate edible flowers as a garnish. Choose flowers that complement the colors of the dish, such as pansies or violas, for an exquisite finishing touch.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Peaches and Cream Bars
- Oven: An essential appliance for baking and roasting dishes.
- 8 or 9-inch square baking pan: Used for baking and preparing square-shaped desserts or dishes.
- Aluminum foil or parchment: Used for lining the baking pan to prevent sticking and for easy removal of the baked goods.
- Nonstick spray or butter: Used for greasing the baking pan to prevent the bars from sticking.
- Pastry blender or forks: Used for cutting in the cold butter to create a crumbly texture for the crust and topping.
- Wire rack: Used for cooling the baked bars and allowing air to circulate around the pan.
- Whisk: Used for mixing and combining ingredients smoothly.
- Mixing bowl: Used for combining and whisking dry ingredients for the crust and topping.
- Small bowl: Used for mixing the reserved oat-pecan mixture for the topping.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Used for accurately measuring the ingredients.
- Spatula: Used for spreading and smoothing the crust and topping in the baking pan.
- Knife: Used for cutting the chilled bars into squares.
- Fork or spoon: Used for whisking the vanilla icing ingredients together until smooth.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Peaches and Cream Bars
Allow the peaches and cream bars to cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing.
To store, place the bars in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the peaches and cream bars:
- Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, making sure to cover them tightly and remove any excess air.
- Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, labeling it with the date.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor and texture.
To thaw frozen peaches and cream bars, transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator and let them defrost overnight. Alternatively, you can leave them at room temperature for a couple of hours until they soften.
If you prefer your peaches and cream bars warm, you can reheat them gently in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
Note that the texture of the crust and topping may become slightly softer after freezing and thawing, but the bars will still taste delicious.
How To Reheat Leftover Peaches and Cream Bars
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover peaches and cream bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they're warmed through and the crust is slightly crispy again. This method helps to restore the texture of the bars and brings out the flavors of the peaches and cinnamon.
If you prefer a softer texture, you can reheat the bars in the microwave. Place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for 30-45 seconds, or until it's warmed to your liking. Keep in mind that microwaving may cause the crust to become slightly soggy, but it's a quick and convenient option.
For a crispy top and a warm, gooey center, try reheating the bars in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the bars in the basket, leaving some space between each one. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the tops are crispy and the filling is heated through. This method works well for smaller portions and helps to restore the crunch of the oat and pecan topping.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat the bars and achieve a result similar to the conventional oven method. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C), place the bars on a small baking sheet or toaster oven tray, and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crispy on top. This is an excellent option for reheating smaller batches without having to use a full-sized oven.
For a unique twist, try transforming your leftover peaches and cream bars into a warm dessert bowl. Crumble a bar into a microwave-safe bowl, top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and heat in the microwave for 30-45 seconds, or until the ice cream starts to melt and the bar is heated through. This creates a delightful contrast of warm, gooey peach filling and cool, creamy ice cream.
Interesting Trivia About Peaches and Cream Bars
The recipe for peaches and cream bars is a delightful combination of sweet and creamy flavors, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
Is Making Peaches and Cream Bars at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this peaches and cream bars recipe is quite favorable. The ingredients are commonly found in households, making it a budget-friendly option. The use of peaches and oats provides a nutritious and affordable dessert. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-15, depending on the availability and quality of the ingredients. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be 9/10, considering its simplicity, delicious flavor, and economical nature.
Are Peaches and Cream Bars Healthy or Unhealthy?
The peaches and cream bars recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:
- The crust and topping contain a significant amount of butter and brown sugar, which are high in saturated fat and added sugars.
- The peach filling also includes granulated sugar, further increasing the overall sugar content of the dish.
- The vanilla icing, made with confectioners' sugar, adds even more sugar to the already sweet treat.
However, the recipe does incorporate some healthier ingredients, such as old-fashioned rolled oats and peaches, which provide dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
To make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of butter in the crust and topping by replacing half of it with Greek yogurt or unsweetened applesauce. This will lower the saturated fat content while maintaining a moist texture.
- Decrease the amount of brown sugar and granulated sugar used in the recipe. You can also experiment with natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or date paste, which offer some additional nutrients.
- Increase the amount of peaches used in the filling to boost the fruit content and natural sweetness of the bars.
- Swap out half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour to add more fiber and nutrients to the crust.
- Omit the vanilla icing altogether or drizzle a smaller amount to reduce the added sugar content.
Editor's Opinion on the Peaches and Cream Bars Recipe
The peaches and cream bars recipe is a delightful combination of sweet, juicy peaches and a buttery oat crust. The addition of pecans adds a lovely crunch to the topping, and the vanilla icing provides a perfect finishing touch. The recipe is well-structured and easy to follow, resulting in a delicious treat that is perfect for any occasion. The bars are a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, making them a delightful addition to any dessert spread.
Enhance Your Peaches and Cream Bars Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Peaches and Cream Bars Recipe:
This recipe for peaches and cream bars is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of peaches with the richness of cream. The crust and topping, made with a blend of flour, oats, and pecans, provide a satisfying crunch. The luscious peach filling, featuring fresh peaches and a hint of cinnamon, adds a burst of fruity flavor. Topped with a creamy vanilla icing, these bars are a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the meticulous baking process to deliver a delectable dessert experience.
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