These Easy Heavenly Summer Peach Bars are like a sunny slice of summer! With sweet peaches and a buttery crust, they are perfect for enjoying on a warm day.
When I take a bite, it’s like a mini-vacation! Just bake, cool, and slice – then they’re ready for sharing (or sneaking!) at picnics or gatherings. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for your crust. You can use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or a gluten-free blend if you need to avoid gluten.
Butter: Unsalted butter is the best choice for baking, as it allows you to control the salt in your recipe. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute works well too.
Peaches: Fresh ripe peaches bring the best flavor. If you can’t find peaches, feel free to use nectarines or even canned peaches (drained) for convenience.
Sugar: The recipe uses granulated sugar, but brown sugar can add a more caramelized flavor to the crust. Adjust the amount if you’re using particularly sweet peaches!
How to Achieve the Perfect Crust?
The crust is key to these peach bars! For the best texture, start by mixing the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder before adding the softened butter. Mix until crumbly. This ensures even distribution of ingredients.
- Press two-thirds of this mixture firmly into your baking pan—this creates a sturdy base.
- Keep the remaining crumbs a bit thicker; it will add a nice texture on top!
- Don’t skimp on pre-baking time; it helps set the crust before adding the juicy peaches!
Easy Heavenly Summer Peach Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 large ripe peaches, peeled and sliced thinly
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening peach filling)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful peach bar recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and approximately 35-40 minutes for baking. After baking, let them cool completely, which will take about 30 minutes. So, you’re looking at around 1 hour total, plus cooling time before serving. Perfect for a relaxed summer afternoon!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper—this makes it easier to lift the bars out later!
2. Make the Crust Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and 1/3 cup of granulated sugar. Add the softened butter into the bowl. Mix everything together until the mixture becomes crumbly but holds together firmly when pressed. This will be your crust!
3. Forming the Crust:
Take about two-thirds of this crumb mixture and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. This creates a solid base for the delicious peach filling that’s to come!
4. Prepare the Peach Filling:
In a separate bowl, gently toss the sliced peaches with the lemon juice, 3/4 cup of sugar, vanilla extract, and if you’re using it, the cornstarch. This mixture will add flavor and help thicken the juicy filling during baking.
5. Assemble the Bars:
Spread the peach mixture evenly over the crust layer you’ve laid down. Then take the remaining crumb mixture and sprinkle it over the peaches. It’s okay if it’s not perfect; this adds to the charm!
6. Baking Time:
Pop the pan into the oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes. You’re looking for a golden top and bubbly peaches—this is where the magic happens!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, carefully remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan. This will take about 30 minutes. Once cool, dust the top with powdered sugar for a sweet touch, then cut into bars and enjoy!
Delight in every buttery, peachy bite of your summery peach bars! Perfect for sharing or indulging yourself. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Heavenly Summer Peach Bars
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen peaches, make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture before using them in the recipe. This helps prevent the bars from becoming too watery!
How Can I Make These Peach Bars Gluten-Free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1. Just make sure it includes xanthan gum, or add a teaspoon yourself to help with the structure!
Can I Prepare the Bars Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! These bars can be made a day in advance. Store them covered in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld together. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw them in the fridge before enjoying again!
