Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars are the perfect blend of sweet and creamy goodness, topped with a satisfying crumble. This dessert captures the essence of summer with its fresh peaches and luscious cream filling. Each bite combines buttery crust, juicy peach slices, and velvety cream, creating an indulgent treat that will have anyone asking for seconds. If you love peaches, these bars will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Imagine a sunny afternoon, the scent of ripe peaches filling the air, and you have a dessert that embodies all of that joy. Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars are not just a dessert; they are a celebration of summer fruit that is incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, enjoying a family gathering, or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers on taste and satisfaction.
The amazing combination of warm peaches and creamy filling, all surrounded by a crunchy crumble, makes these bars irresistible. You might even find yourself making them every week! In this post, we’ll explore why you’ll love this recipe, how to prepare it, and tips for serving. Let’s dive in and see why these Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars deserve a spot in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars are fantastic for many reasons, making them a must-try for dessert lovers. Here’s what makes this recipe special:
1. Simple Ingredients – Most ingredients are pantry staples or easy to find at your local grocery store.
2. Delicious Flavor Profile – The natural sweetness of peaches pairs perfectly with the creamy layer and crunchy topping.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday dinner or an afternoon snack, these bars fit every setting.
4. Easy to Make – With clear instructions and minimal active cooking time, you can whip these up quickly.
5. Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will love this combination of flavors and textures.
6. Make Ahead – You can prepare these bars in advance and store them, making them a great option for busy weeks.
With these appealing factors, it’s clear why Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars are so adored. The joy of serving and sharing these bars will make you the star of any gathering!

Preparation and Cooking Time

To prepare these Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars, you will need around 1 hour total, broken down into preparation and baking time. Here’s a snapshot:
– Preparation Time: 20 minutes
– Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
– Cooling Time: 15-20 minutes
This timing may vary depending on your kitchen efficiency, but this guide should help track the process smoothly!

Ingredients

– For the crust and crumble:
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ¾ cup granulated sugar
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– For the cream filling:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– ½ cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 large egg
– For the peach topping:
– 2-3 medium ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating these Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars is simple when you follow these steps:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
2. Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir in melted butter and egg until the mixture is crumbly but holds together. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. Prepare the Cream Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Mix in powdered sugar, vanilla, and egg until well combined. Spread this cream mixture evenly over the crust layer.
4. Slice the Peaches: In another bowl, toss the sliced peaches with brown sugar and cinnamon. Distribute the peaches evenly over the cream filling.
5. Make the Crumble Topping: In the same bowl used for the crust, combine any leftover mixture with a bit more flour if needed, creating a crumble texture. Sprinkle this topping over the peach layer.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set.
7. Cool: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the baking dish for 15-20 minutes.
8. Cut into Bars: Once cooled, cut into squares or bars for serving. You can dust with powdered sugar for an added touch.
These easy steps will lead you to a delicious dessert that won’t disappoint!

How to Serve

To elevate your Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars and impress your guests, consider these serving suggestions:
1. Presentation: Serve the bars on a decorative plate or cake stand for a beautiful display.
2. Accompaniments: Pair with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence.
3. Fresh Garnish: Add a sprig of mint or a few fresh peach slices on top for a colorful, inviting look.
4. Beverage Pairing: Enjoy these bars with a glass of sweet tea or lemonade to accentuate the summer flavors.
5. Leftovers Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Serve cold or at room temperature.
With these delightful serving ideas, your Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars will surely be a hit among friends and family. Enjoy the wonderful flavors of this incredible dessert!

Additional Tips

– Use Ripe Peaches: Choose peaches that are slightly soft to the touch for the best flavor and texture. They should smell fragrant and have a slight give when pressed.
– Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or cardamom to the peach topping for extra warmth and flavor.
– Garnish Creatively: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate your serving. You can also try a sprinkle of toasted almonds for added crunch.

Recipe Variation

Switching up the flavors can be a fun way to enjoy Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars. Here are some variations to consider:
1. Berry Burst: Replace half of the peaches with blueberries or raspberries for a delightful twist.
2. Coconut Flavor: Add shredded coconut to the cream filling or crumble topping for a beachy vibe.
3. Almond Extract: Use almond extract instead of vanilla in the cream filling for a nutty depth of flavor.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep your Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to four days, although they are best enjoyed fresh.
– Freezing: You can freeze these bars for up to three months. Wrap each bar in plastic wrap and place them in a sealed freezer bag to preserve flavor and texture.

Special Equipment

To make your baking experience seamless, gather the following tools:
– Mixing Bowls: Various sizes for mixing ingredients.
– Electric Mixer: Helpful for creaming the cream cheese and sugar together.
– 8×8 Inch Baking Dish: The ideal size for this recipe.
– Parchment Paper: Optional, for easier removal of the bars from the baking dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the bars are done?
Look for a golden brown top and a slightly firm filling. The center should be set, and a toothpick should come out clean when inserted.
Can I use canned peaches instead?
Yes, but for the best results, drain them well and use fresh peaches if possible to maintain texture and flavor.
Is there a gluten-free version?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy these bars gluten-free.
Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
Yes, you can adjust the sweetness according to your taste but be mindful that it might affect the texture.

Conclusion

Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars are a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer fruit. Their combination of buttery crust, sweet peaches, and creamy filling creates an indulgent dessert that everyone will love. With their simple preparation and ability to impress at any gathering, these bars truly deserve a place in your dessert repertoire. Try making them soon, and enjoy each comforting bite!

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