Heavenly Summer Peach Bars

These Heavenly Summer Peach Bars are a delightful treat that combines a buttery crust with juicy peaches and a soft, cake-like topping. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a sweet afternoon snack, these bars burst with fresh peach flavor and are sure to impress your friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these peach bars in no time.
• Fresh Flavor: The use of ripe peaches ensures each bite is packed with juicy goodness that screams summer.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them on their own or serve with whipped cream or ice cream for an extra special treat.
• Great for Sharing: Cut them into squares and bring them along to picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings.
• Perfectly Balanced: The combination of sweet peaches and a tender topping creates a harmonious flavor profile that everyone will love.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these delicious bars, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Baking pan (9×13-inch)
• Parchment paper (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without creating a mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth mixture for the topping, ensuring even distribution of flavors.

Ingredients

These Heavenly Summer Peach Bars feature a luscious combination of fresh peaches and a rich crust. Here’s what you need:

Ingredients
For the crust:
* 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
* ½ cup granulated sugar
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* ¼ teaspoon salt

For the filling:
* 3 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced (about 4 medium peaches)
* ¼ cup granulated sugar
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the topping:
* 2 large eggs
* ¾ cup granulated sugar
* ½ cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
* ¼ cup all-purpose flour
* ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Heavenly Summer Peach Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This will help prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until the mixture is crumbly.
3. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form the crust.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Bake the crust in your preheated oven for about 15 minutes. Once done, remove it from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 4: Make the Filling

While your crust bakes:
1. In another bowl, combine diced peaches, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch.
2. Toss until all peach pieces are well coated in the mixture.

Step 5: Assemble the Bars

Spread the peach mixture evenly over your pre-baked crust.

Step 6: Prepare the Topping

In yet another bowl:
1. Whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), all-purpose flour, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Pour this creamy topping evenly over the peach layer.

Step 7: Bake Again

Return your pan to the oven and bake for an additional 35–40 minutes or until the top is set and lightly golden.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let your Heavenly Summer Peach Bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. For cleaner cuts, chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Heavenly Summer Peach Bars

These Heavenly Summer Peach Bars make a delightful dessert for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a summer picnic or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, here are some creative serving suggestions.

Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream

• Adding a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream will enhance the warm flavors of the peach bars and create a delicious contrast.

Serve with Fresh Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds lightness and richness, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Drizzle with Honey or Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of honey or caramel sauce can elevate the sweetness and add an extra layer of flavor that complements the peaches.

Enjoy with Greek Yogurt

• For a healthier twist, serve your peach bars with a side of plain Greek yogurt. It balances the sweetness while adding a creamy texture.

Top with Sliced Almonds

• Sprinkle sliced almonds on top for added crunch. The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the peaches.

Accompany with Fresh Mint

• Garnish your bars with fresh mint leaves for a refreshing touch. The mint enhances the fruity flavors and adds a pop of color.

How to Perfect Heavenly Summer Peach Bars

To ensure your Heavenly Summer Peach Bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use ripe peaches: Choose peaches that are slightly soft to the touch for maximum juiciness and flavor in your filling.
• Don’t skip chilling: Letting your bars chill in the refrigerator before cutting ensures cleaner, more precise squares.
• Measure ingredients accurately: Using precise measurements for flour and sugar can make a big difference in texture and taste.
• Experiment with spices: Adding cinnamon or nutmeg to your peach filling can enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Adjust sweetness if needed: Depending on the ripeness of your peaches, you might want to adjust the amount of sugar in the filling for perfect balance.
• Check doneness carefully: Oven temperatures vary, so check your bars towards the end of baking to avoid overcooking.

Best Side Dishes for Heavenly Summer Peach Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Heavenly Summer Peach Bars can create a complete meal experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the sweetness of the bars and adds freshness to your meal.
2. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with herbs complement the fruity dessert perfectly for a satisfying combination.
3. Quinoa Salad: A colorful quinoa salad packed with veggies provides protein and fiber, making it a hearty side dish.
4. Vegetable Platter: Crisp raw vegetables served with hummus or ranch dip offer crunch and contrast against the soft peach bars.
5. Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese pairs beautifully with sweet desserts, enhancing their flavors.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits can be a light counterpart to your rich dessert bars.
7. Smoothie Bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl made from mixed berries is not only healthy but also adds another fruity element.
8. Savory Flatbread: Flatbreads topped with herbs and cheese provide a savory option that works well alongside sweet treats like peach bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Avoid overmixing the crust: Overmixing can lead to a tough texture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a flaky crust.
• Don’t skip the chilling step: Chilling the bars before cutting helps maintain their shape. Let them cool completely in the pan before slicing.
• Forgetting to measure peaches: Measuring accurately is key. Use about 4 medium peaches for the right amount of filling; too few may result in a dry bar.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Oven temperature can vary, so check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time. Look for a lightly golden top.
• Using unripe peaches: Unripe peaches lack flavor and sweetness. Choose ripe, juicy peaches for the best taste in your Heavenly Summer Peach Bars.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to avoid sticking.

Freezing Heavenly Summer Peach Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Heavenly Summer Peach Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm bars for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time on low power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Heavenly Summer Peach Bars?
Heavenly Summer Peach Bars are dessert squares made with fresh peaches, featuring a buttery crust and creamy topping. They’re perfect for summer!

Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?
While fresh peaches are recommended, you can use canned peaches. Just ensure they are well-drained before using them in the recipe.

How do I store leftover peach bars?
Leftover bars should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for longer storage.

Can I customize the recipe?
Yes! You can customize these bars by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg or by substituting with other fruits like blueberries or strawberries.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works well in baking.

Final Thoughts

These Heavenly Summer Peach Bars are not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Their sweet peach flavor and creamy topping make them an irresistible treat! Feel free to customize them with different fruits or spices to suit your taste preferences.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Heavenly Summer Peach Bars

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful taste of Heavenly Summer Peach Bars, where a buttery crust meets juicy peaches and a creamy topping. This easy recipe is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or an afternoon snack. Each bite bursts with fresh peach flavor that will impress your friends and family. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find yourself making these luscious fruit bars time and again.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 cups fresh peaches (peeled and diced)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for filling)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
2. Cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until crumbly. Press the mixture into the prepared pan to form the crust.
3. Bake for about 15 minutes until slightly golden; set aside to cool.
4. In a separate bowl, toss diced peaches with sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch until coated. Spread over the cooled crust.
5. Whisk together eggs, sugar, sour cream (or yogurt), flour, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour this mixture over the peaches.
6. Bake for an additional 35–40 minutes until set and lightly golden on top.
7. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares; refrigerate for cleaner cuts if desired.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 square (50g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 55mg