Name: Peach Crumble Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 3 medium peaches (pitted, peeled, and diced); 2 cups rolled oats (180g); 2 cups all-purpose flour (240g); 3/4 cup light brown sugar (packed, 160g); 1/4 cup granulated sugar (50g); 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground ginger; 1/2 tsp Kosher salt; 1 cup unsalted butter (softened, 226g or 2 sticks); 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (optional)

Introduction to Peach Crumble Bars

Peach crumble bars are a delightful and versatile treat that fit seamlessly into the busy lives of young professionals. Whether you need a quick snack for your midday cravings or a sweet dessert to impress friends at a gathering, these bars pack all the flavor and ease you could wish for! With buttery, crumbly oats paired with the natural sweetness of fresh peaches, they're an ideal way to savor summer's bounty any time of year.

Not only do peach crumble bars taste incredible, but they also allow for a bit of creativity in the kitchen. You can customize them by adding your favorite spices, like cinnamon or ginger, or experimenting with different fruits based on the season. Plus, they’re simple enough to prepare during a hectic weeknight yet impressive enough for a weekend brunch.

Why are Peach Crumble Bars the perfect treat for young professionals?

For those juggling work deadlines, social plans, and personal wellness, peach crumble bars offer a practical solution. Packed with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats and fresh peaches, they provide a delicious balance of carbohydrates and fiber—perfect for a quick energy boost. Best of all, they can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for easy access, ensuring that you always have a nourishing snack on hand. So why not whip up a batch and enjoy this delightful concoction that speaks to both your taste buds and your busy lifestyle?

Ingredients for Peach Crumble Bars

Fresh peaches for maximum flavor

Nothing beats the flavor of fresh peaches when it comes to making homemade peach crumble bars. Look for ripe, juicy peaches that are fragrant and slightly soft to the touch. Ideally, you'll want around three medium peaches, which will yield about three cups when diced. In a pinch, you could use frozen peaches, but fresh ones will always provide that vibrant taste and texture that makes these bars irresistible.

The essential dry ingredients

The foundation of your peach crumble bars lies in the dry ingredients. Gather up:

Rolled oats (2 cups), which add a chewy texture
All-purpose flour (2 cups) for structure
Light brown sugar (¾ cup) for richness
Granulated sugar (¼ cup) for sweetness
Baking soda (½ tsp), to help everything rise
A touch of Kosher salt and ground cinnamon (½ tsp) for warmth

These ingredients come together to create an incredible crumble that perfectly complements the sweet peaches.

Optional flavor enhancers

For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding one teaspoon of pure vanilla extract or a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest. These optional ingredients elevate your peach crumble bars, providing a depth of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing. They can really bring out the natural sweetness of the peaches and make your dessert even more delicious!

Step-by-step preparation of Peach Crumble Bars

Making peach crumble bars is a delightful experience, and the best part is how straightforward the whole process is! With a little prep and some fresh peaches, you can create a delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Let's dive into the preparation together!

Preheat the oven and prepare the baking pan

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350℉. This ensures an even bake for your bars. While the oven warms up, grab your 9×9-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper. Make sure to leave an inch or so overhang on two sides; this will make it super easy to lift your bars out once they're baked. You could also give the pan a light spray with non-stick cooking spray for good measure.

Prepare the peaches for the filling

Next up, it's time to focus on those juicy peaches. Take about three medium peaches, which you’ll need to pit, peel, and dice into bite-sized pieces—approximately three cups. In a medium bowl, toss the diced peaches with a bit of vanilla extract or fresh lemon zest for an extra flavor kick if you’re using either. This peach mixture will be the heart of your crumble bars, so be generous with your peaches—they're the star!

Create the crumble topping

Now, let’s whip up the delicious crumble topping that will bring everything together. In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, all-purpose flour, and the sugars along with baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and Kosher salt. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.

For the buttery goodness, cut one cup of softened unsalted butter into cubes. Gently incorporate the butter into your dry ingredients using a pastry blender or your fingers. Mix until the mixture resembles a shaggy dough that sticks together when you pinch it; this should take just a few minutes and will smell heavenly!

Assemble the bars in the pan

Now that you have your peach filling and crumble ready, it’s time to assemble your peach crumble bars. Scoop about two-thirds of the crumble dough into your prepared baking pan and press it down to form an even layer. Next, spread the peach mixture generously on top, making sure not to touch the sides of the pan. Finally, sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the top and gently press it down. This helps form a nice crust as it bakes.

Bake to perfection

Pop your pan into the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes. Keep an eye out for that golden brown crumble topping; it should be bubbly and delicious. Once baked, let your bars cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment overhang. After that, slice into bars and enjoy the delightful combination of buttery oats and sweet peaches!

By following these steps, you’re on your way to enjoying some scrumptious peach crumble bars that your friends and family will love. Happy baking!

Variations on Peach Crumble Bars

Gluten-free Peach Crumble Bars

Craving a tasty dessert but need it to be gluten-free? No worries! Swap out the all-purpose flour for a quality gluten-free flour blend. This simple substitute maintains the delicious texture and allows everyone to indulge in these peach crumble bars. You can also use certified gluten-free oats to make sure your bars stay safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Vegan-friendly Options for Peach Crumble Bars

For a vegan twist on these peach crumble bars, simply replace the unsalted butter with a good-quality vegan butter. Look for options like Earth Balance buttery sticks for easy incorporation into the crumble. You can also use a flaxseed mixture as an egg substitute if you're feeling adventurous, adding both nutrition and heartiness to your delightful dessert! Do you have a preferred vegan alternative? Let us know!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Peach Crumble Bars

Tips for Selecting the Best Peaches

When making peach crumble bars, the right peaches can make all the difference! Look for freestone peaches that feel slightly yielding to gentle pressure, indicating ripeness. The skin should have a vibrant color and no blemishes. If you can't find fresh peaches, frozen ones are a great alternative; just be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before using.

Achieving the Right Crumble Texture

For that ideal crumble texture in your peach crumble bars, aim for a mix that’s moist but not too wet. When you combine the butter with the dry ingredients, ensure it’s well incorporated but still crumbly. This balance creates the perfect topping that will bake up golden and crisp, giving you that delicious crunch in every bite!

Serving suggestions for Peach Crumble Bars

Ideal pairings with Peach Crumble Bars

To elevate your peach crumble bars, consider pairing them with a delightful scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. The creamy textures complement the sweet peach flavors beautifully, creating a dessert that is both refreshing and indulgent. For a more vibrant touch, serve with a side of tangy yogurt or even a splash of honey drizzle for added sweetness.

Creative serving styles to impress your friends

Want to impress at your next gathering? Try serving your peach crumble bars in a rustic style. Cut them into neat squares and place them on a wooden board, garnished with fresh peach slices and sprigs of mint for a colorful presentation. Alternatively, stack them in a mason jar with layers of whipped cream to create an adorable dessert-in-a-jar! Your friends will love this creative twist, and it’s a great option for parties or picnics.

Time Breakdown for Making Peach Crumble Bars

Preparation Time

Prepare your ingredients and get everything ready in about 15 minutes. This includes peeling and dicing the peaches and mixing the dry ingredients.

Baking Time

The peach crumble bars will need to bake for 35-45 minutes until the topping is golden brown and deliciously fragrant.

Total Time

From start to finish, you'll spend around 1 hour to enjoy these delightful peach crumble bars, perfect for sharing or indulging yourself!

Nutritional Facts for Peach Crumble Bars

Calories per serving
Each peach crumble bar contains approximately 250 calories. This makes them a delightful treat for those mid-afternoon cravings without completely derailing your nutrition goals.

Important nutrition highlights
These bars are a source of whole grains and fiber, thanks to the rolled oats and flour. Plus, peaches provide essential vitamins like vitamin C and potassium, making this dessert not just tasty but somewhat nutritious as well.

Sugar content
With about 15 grams of sugar per serving, the sweetness comes from both the peaches and the added sugars. You could reduce this by adjusting the amount of light brown and granulated sugar, maintaining a delicious flavor while being mindful of sugar intake.

For more insights on the nutritional benefits of peaches, check out the California Cling Peach Board.

Enjoy baking these delicious peach crumble bars while keeping their nutritional profile in mind!

FAQ about Peach Crumble Bars

Can I substitute other fruits?
Absolutely! While this recipe shines with fresh peaches, feel free to experiment with other fruits. Berries, apples, or even plums can be fantastic alternatives. If substituting, adjust the sugar based on the fruit’s sweetness and moisture content.

How do I store leftover Peach Crumble Bars?
To keep your peach crumble bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze the bars for up to 3 months—just ensure they’re well-wrapped!

Can I double the recipe easily?
Yes, you can double the recipe without much hassle! Just use a larger baking pan (9x13 inches works well) and keep an eye on the baking time—understand that it might need a few extra minutes. This way, you’ll have plenty of delicious peach crumble bars to enjoy or share!

Conclusion on Peach Crumble Bars

Why these bars will become your new go-to dessert

Peach crumble bars are not just delicious; they’re incredibly easy to make! Bursting with sweet, juicy peaches and a crumbly oat topping, these bars are perfect for any occasion. Serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream, and watch your friends and family come back for seconds!