Peach Crumble Bars – 5 Simple Steps to a Perfect Dessert

Peach crumble bars are a delightful treat that blends the sweetness of ripe peaches with a crumbly, oat-based topping. Perfect for a summer dessert, these bars offer the best of both worlds — a crunchy, golden crust and a soft, juicy filling. With just the right balance of sweetness, these bars will quickly become your go-to dessert for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love These Peach Crumble Bars

Peach crumble bars are easy to make and incredibly delicious, making them the perfect choice for busy home bakers. The simple ingredients come together to create a satisfying dessert that features the comforting texture of oatmeal crust combined with the natural sweetness of peaches. The almond extract adds a subtle nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the peaches, creating a mouthwatering combination.

Ingredients for Peach Crumble Bars

To make these peach crumble bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the crumble, creating a slightly soft texture.
• Rolled oats: Adds chewiness and a heartiness to the crust and crumble.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the crumble and peach filling.
• Cinnamon: Brings warmth and depth of flavor to the filling and crust.
• Peaches: The star ingredient of this dessert, providing natural sweetness and juicy texture.
• Almond extract: Enhances the peach flavor with a subtle nutty aroma.
• Lemon juice: Brightens up the peach mixture, adding a zesty contrast.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the peach filling and creates a more cohesive texture.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking for substitutions or modifications, here are a few ideas to customize your peach crumble bars:

• Gluten-free flour: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if you’re sensitive to gluten.
• Maple syrup: Use maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a more natural sweetener.
• Peach preserves: If fresh peaches aren’t in season, you can use peach preserves as a filling for a quick alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Peach Crumble Bars

Making peach crumble bars is easy and straightforward. Follow these steps to create a dessert that’s both delicious and visually stunning:

1. Prepare the peaches: Start by peeling and chopping the peaches into ½ to 1-inch pieces. Toss the peaches with lemon juice and almond extract, then mix with cornstarch and sugar.
2. Prepare the crumble mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, cinnamon, and sugar. Add melted butter and mix until the dough resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Assemble the bars: Press ⅔ of the crumble mixture into an 8-inch square baking dish lined with parchment paper. Spread the peach mixture evenly over the crust, leaving any excess liquid behind.
4. Top with crumble: Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the peaches. For larger crumble pieces, squeeze the mixture in your hands before sprinkling it on top. Press the crumbles gently to ensure they stick to the peaches.
5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and bake the bars for 33-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the crumbles are crispy.
6. Cool and slice: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for about an hour, then refrigerate for at least 1.5 hours to ensure they are set before cutting into squares.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Peach Crumble Bars

To ensure your peach crumble bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Avoid overmixing: When combining the flour, oats, and butter, be careful not to overwork the dough. This will keep the crumble light and crumbly.
• Test for doneness: The bars should be golden brown on top, and the peach filling should be bubbling slightly at the edges.
• Storage: If you have leftovers, store your peach crumble bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Peach Crumble Bars

While peach crumble bars are delicious on their own, you can elevate them by pairing them with various sides or toppings:

• Ice cream: Serve your peach crumble bars with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a creamy contrast.
• Whipped cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra richness.
• Berry compote: A drizzle of mixed berry compote adds a tangy, fruity layer of flavor.

If you prefer a different fruit, you can swap the peaches for other seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or even a combination of them for a mixed berry crumble bar.

Why Peach Crumble Bars Are a Summer Essential

Peach crumble bars are a perfect dessert for the summer, utilizing fresh, juicy peaches in every bite. Not only do they taste amazing, but they also offer a simple, easy-to-make option for summer gatherings, picnics, or barbecues. The oatmeal crust provides a hearty base that balances the soft peaches, making every bite a delightful experience.

Whether you’re baking for a family event or craving something sweet, these peach crumble bars are a must-try. They are easy to prepare, beautifully fragrant, and most importantly, a treat everyone will enjoy.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Peach Crumble Bars!

Peach crumble bars are the ultimate summer treat that combines the best elements of fruity freshness and a crunchy, oat-filled crust. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that’s both comforting and delicious. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these peach crumble bars are sure to be a hit. The almond and cinnamon flavors beautifully enhance the peaches, while the crumble topping offers the perfect texture contrast. Don’t forget to enjoy them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of fresh cream for an extra indulgence!

FAQs About Peach Crumble Bars

More Relevant Recipes

• Peach Pie Recipe
• Fresh Peach Fritters 

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