The Peach Crumble Bars are a deliciously sweet, buttery dessert that combines the summer freshness of peaches and the comforting warmth of crumble in a convenient bar form. This recipe is perfect for using up ripe peaches and is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
This recipe uses common baking ingredients such as all-purpose flour, sugar, and butter, which most people usually have in their pantry. The star of this recipe, however, is the peaches. It is important to use ripe, juicy peaches to get the best flavor. If peaches are not in season, you can also use canned peaches. Another key ingredient is the old fashioned rolled oats used in the crust and streusel, these are typically found in the cereal aisle at the supermarket.
Ingredients for Peach Crumble Bars
all-purpose flour: This is used in both the crust and the filling to provide structure.
old fashioned rolled oats: Used in the crust and topping for a hearty texture and nutty flavor.
brown sugar: It sweetens the crust and topping while also adding some moisture.
cinnamon: Provides a nice warm spice flavor to the crust and topping.
unsalted butter: Helps bind the crust and topping and gives a rich flavor.
almonds: Gives a nice crunch to the topping. Can be substituted with other nuts.
egg: It helps bind the filling.
granulated sugar: Sweetens the peach filling.
salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
peaches: The star of the dish, provides a sweet, juicy flavor.
vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor.
powdered sugar: Used in the glaze for sweetness.
milk: Thins out the glaze to the right consistency.
One reader, Elissa Getz says:
These peach crumble bars are a slice of heaven! The buttery crust, sweet peach filling, and crunchy almond streusel are a match made in dessert paradise. The glaze adds the perfect touch of sweetness. I can't get enough of these delicious bars!
Techniques Required for Making Peach Crumble Bars
How to prepare the crust and streusel: Combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a large bowl. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture turns into coarse, pea-sized crumbs. Set aside 3/4 cup of the mixture and mix in the almonds to create the topping for the bars.
How to make the peach filling: Whisk the egg and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Stir in the vanilla, then add the flour and salt, and whisk until combined. Gently fold in the peaches.
How to make the glaze: Combine the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Stir until completely smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the whole pan of bars.
How to bake the bars: Bake the bars at 350 degrees F for about 30 minutes or until golden brown on top. Allow the bars to cool for 30 minutes on a cooling rack, then place the pan in the refrigerator and allow to chill for 2 hours before cutting into squares.
How To Make Peach Crumble Bars
These peach crumble bars are bite-sized goodness made of fresh peaches in a sugary and buttery oatmeal crust and finished off with a vanilla glaze.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Crust and Streusel:
- Cooking spray
- 1cupall-purpose flour
- ½cupOld fashioned rolled oats
- ⅓cupbrown sugarpacked
- ½tspcinnamonground
- 10tbspcold unsalted buttercut into small cubes
- ½cupalmondsfinely chopped
For Peach Filling:
- 1egg
- ½cupgranulated sugar
- 1tbspall-purpose flour
- ¼tspsalt
- 2cupspeacheschopped, peeled
- ½tspvanilla extract
For Glaze:
- ½cuppowdered sugar
- 2tspmilk
- ¼tspvanilla extract
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line an 8-inch by 8-inch baking pan with foil, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Coat the foil-lined pan in cooking spray.
Crust and Streusel:
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In a large bowl, stir together the flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
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Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or two forks until the mixture turns into coarse, pea-sized crumbs.
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Remove 3/4 cup of the mixture, put in a small bowl and mix in the almonds. Set aside the almond mixture, this will be the topping on the bars.
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Evenly press the remaining oat mixture into the bottom of the baking pan. Bake for 15 minutes. Prepare the peach filling while the crust bakes.
Filing:
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Whisk the egg and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Stir in the vanilla. Add the flour and salt. Whisk until combined. Gently fold in the peaches.
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After the crust has cooked for 15 minutes, remove it from the oven and pour the filling over the hot crust.
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Sprinkle with reserved oatmeal and almond mixture. Bake for about 30 minutes or until golden brown on top.
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Place the pan on a cooling rack and cool for 30 minutes.
Glaze:
-
Combine the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl; stir until completely smooth.
-
Drizzle the glaze over the whole pan of bars.
-
Place the pan in the refrigerator and allow to chill for 2 hours before cutting into squares.
Recipe Notes
You can make the bars 3 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve them.
Nutrition
- Calories: 264.31kcal
- Fat: 14.20g
- Saturated Fat: 6.55g
- Trans Fat: 0.39g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.14g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.55g
- Carbohydrates: 32.14g
- Fiber: 1.80g
- Sugar: 19.70g
- Protein: 3.68g
- Cholesterol: 38.86mg
- Sodium: 57.57mg
- Calcium: 31.22mg
- Potassium: 131.61mg
- Iron: 1.06mg
- Vitamin A: 91.19µg
- Vitamin C: 1.70mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Peach Crumble Bars
When making the peach filling, it's important to gently fold in the peaches rather than stirring them in vigorously. This will help to maintain the integrity of the fruit pieces and prevent them from breaking down too much during the baking process. Additionally, chilling the bars in the refrigerator before cutting them into squares will make them easier to cut and serve, as the filling will have time to set.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Peach Crumble Bars
Prep ahead: Prepare the crust and streusel mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. This will save 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.
Organize ingredients: Before starting the recipe, organize all the ingredients and equipment needed to streamline the cooking process.
Bake in advance: Bake the bars a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for an easy dessert option when entertaining.
Quick glaze: Skip the glaze and simply dust the bars with powdered sugar for a quicker finishing touch.
Substitute Ingredients For Peach Crumble Bars Recipe
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor and extra fiber to the crust and streusel, while still providing the necessary structure for the bars.
old fashioned rolled oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes can provide a similar texture and nutty flavor, while also adding a protein boost to the crust and streusel.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a 1:1 replacement for brown sugar, offering a slightly different flavor profile with a hint of caramel.
cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can provide a warm and slightly sweet flavor similar to cinnamon, adding a different depth of flavor to the crust and streusel.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a rich and slightly sweet flavor to the crust and streusel.
almonds - Substitute with pecans: Pecans can offer a similar nutty flavor and crunch to the crust and streusel, complementing the peach filling.
egg - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can act as a binding agent and add moisture to the peach filling, serving as a vegan-friendly alternative to eggs.
granulated sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a rich, natural sweetness to the peach filling, while also providing a hint of caramel flavor.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used to thicken the peach filling, providing a similar texture to flour without the gluten.
unsalted butter - Substitute with vegan butter: Vegan butter can be used to maintain the richness and structure of the crust and streusel while making the recipe dairy-free.
powdered sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used to make a naturally sweet glaze with a hint of caramel flavor, as an alternative to powdered sugar.
Presentation Tips for Peach Crumble Bars
Elevate the crust and streusel: Create a delicate and refined crust and streusel by incorporating almonds for a subtle nuttiness and texture. The almonds will add a touch of sophistication to the bars, appealing to the discerning palates of Michelin-starred chefs.
Artful peach filling: Craft a visually stunning and luscious peach filling that showcases the natural beauty of the peaches. Ensure the peaches are sliced uniformly and arranged elegantly to create a visually appealing layer that reflects precision and artistry.
Exquisite glaze application: Apply the glaze with precision and artistry, ensuring it drizzles over the bars in a manner that is both visually appealing and adds a touch of sweetness. The glaze should be delicately applied, enhancing the overall presentation without overpowering the flavors.
Attention to detail: Pay meticulous attention to every aspect of the presentation, from the uniformity of the crust to the precise placement of the peach slices. Each element should be thoughtfully arranged to create a visually stunning and harmonious composition.
Balance and harmony: Strive for a balance of colors, textures, and flavors in the presentation. The bars should exude a sense of harmony, with each component complementing the others to create a visually striking and delectable dessert.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Crumble Bars
- Oven: Preheat to 350 degrees F for baking the peach crumble bars.
- 8-inch by 8-inch baking pan: Line with foil and coat with cooking spray for baking the bars.
- Foil: Line the baking pan for easy removal of the bars.
- Cooking spray: Coat the foil-lined pan to prevent sticking.
- Large bowl: Used for mixing the crust and streusel ingredients.
- Pastry blender or two forks: Used to cut in the cold butter for the crust and streusel.
- Small bowl: Used for mixing the almond topping for the bars.
- Whisk: Used for mixing the egg, sugar, and other ingredients for the peach filling.
- Cooling rack: Place the pan on a cooling rack to cool the bars.
- Mixing bowl: Used for combining the ingredients for the glaze.
- Spatula: Used for drizzling the glaze over the bars.
- Refrigerator: Used to chill the bars before cutting into squares.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Peach Crumble Bars
- Once the peach crumble bars have cooled completely, cut them into squares or rectangles.
- Place the bars in an airtight container, separating each layer with a piece of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, allowing the flavors to meld and the bars to remain fresh.
- If you want to freeze the peach crumble bars for later enjoyment, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, ensuring a tight seal.
- Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Freeze the peach crumble bars for up to 3 months, allowing you to savor the taste of summer even in the colder months.
- To thaw the frozen bars, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about an hour, or place them in the refrigerator overnight to defrost slowly.
- If you prefer your peach crumble bars warm, you can reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, until warmed through and slightly crisp on top.
- Enjoy your stored or frozen peach crumble bars within a day or two of thawing for the best texture and flavor.
How To Reheat Leftover Peach Crumble Bars
The best way to reheat leftover peach crumble bars is to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and heat them for 10-15 minutes, or until they are warmed through and the crumble topping is slightly crisp again. This method helps to restore the texture of the crust and topping while keeping the peach filling soft and juicy.
If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat the peach crumble bars in the microwave. Place a single bar on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for 20-30 seconds, or until it's warmed to your liking. Keep in mind that the microwave may soften the crumble topping and make it less crisp compared to oven reheating.
For a quick and easy way to enjoy leftover peach crumble bars, try eating them cold straight from the refrigerator. The chilled bars have a delightful texture, with a firm crust, a gooey peach filling, and a crunchy almond topping. This method is perfect for a hot summer day when you don't want to turn on the oven or microwave.
If you want to add a touch of indulgence to your leftover peach crumble bars, try warming them up and serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The combination of warm, fruity crumble and cool, creamy ice cream is simply irresistible.
To maintain the quality of your leftover peach crumble bars, make sure to store them properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should keep well for up to 4-5 days. When you're ready to reheat them, let them come to room temperature for a few minutes before placing them in the oven or microwave for the best results.
Interesting Fact About Peach Crumble Bars
The peach crumble bars recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of summer. These bars are a perfect combination of sweet peaches and buttery crumble, creating a delicious treat for any occasion.
Is Making Peach Crumble Bars at Home Cost-Effective?
This peach crumble bars recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as peaches, flour, and oats, are commonly found and affordable. The use of seasonal fruits makes it even more budget-friendly. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$12, making it an economical dessert option. The versatility of this recipe also allows for ingredient substitutions based on availability, further adding to its cost-effectiveness. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Are Peach Crumble Bars Healthy or Unhealthy?
The peach crumble bars recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:
- The crust and streusel topping are high in butter and sugar, which contribute to the overall calorie and fat content of the bars.
- The recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which is refined and lacks the nutritional benefits of whole grain flours.
- The glaze, although optional, adds extra sugar to the already sweet dessert.
However, the recipe does include some redeeming ingredients:
- Peaches are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.
- Almonds provide healthy fats, protein, and fiber.
- Oats offer a good amount of fiber and nutrients.
To make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value of the crust and streusel.
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the filling by 25-50%, as the natural sweetness of the peaches will still shine through.
- Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia in the crust, streusel, and glaze to lower the overall sugar content.
- Replace half of the butter with Greek yogurt or mashed avocado to reduce the saturated fat content while maintaining a moist texture.
- Increase the amount of peaches to 2 1/2 or 3 cups for a higher fruit-to-crust ratio, boosting the fiber and nutrient content per serving.
- Omit the glaze entirely or use a small amount of honey or maple syrup instead of powdered sugar for a more natural sweetener.
Editor's Opinion on This Peach Crumble Bars Recipe
As a culinary expert, I find this peach crumble bars recipe delightful. The combination of the buttery oat crust, sweet peach filling, and crunchy almond streusel creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. The glaze adds a touch of sweetness and elegance. However, to elevate this recipe, consider adding a hint of lemon zest to the peach filling for a refreshing zing. Additionally, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before serving would enhance the overall flavor profile. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful treat for any occasion.
Enhance Your Peach Crumble Bars Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Peach Crumble Bars
Ideal Appetizers and Main Courses to Complement Peach Crumble Bars
Why trust this Peach Crumble Bars Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, ensuring a delightful treat for any occasion. The combination of fresh peaches and crunchy almonds provides a delightful contrast, while the aromatic cinnamon adds warmth to the dish. The use of old fashioned rolled oats in the crust and streusel brings a wholesome element to the bars. Additionally, the inclusion of vanilla extract in both the filling and glaze enhances the overall depth of flavor. With these quality ingredients, this recipe promises a delectable experience that users can trust and enjoy.
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