Introduction to Peaches & Cream Bars
If you're a young professional balancing work, social life, and self-care, you know how important it is to find simple yet delicious recipes that don’t take up all your time. Enter Peaches & Cream Bars, a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of ripe peaches with a creamy filling and a crunchy topping. These bars are not only easy to make, but they're also perfect for sharing at office potlucks or hosting relaxing weekend brunches with friends.
What makes these bars even better is how versatile they are. You can enjoy them fresh out of the oven or chilled from the fridge, making them a great snack any time of the day. Plus, they can be prepared ahead of time and stored, perfectly fitting into a busy lifestyle. When you're juggling deadlines and social commitments, having a go-to treat like Peaches & Cream Bars on hand can be a sweet relief.
Curious about working some fresh produce into your diet? Peaches are packed with vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining skin health and boosting your immune system. For more insights on the benefits of seasonal fruits, check out this article from Healthline.
So grab your baking pan, and let’s dive into making these delicious bars that are sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients for Peaches & Cream Bars
Crust & Topping
Creating the base for Peaches & Cream Bars is all about the perfect balance of flavors and textures. You’ll need all-purpose flour, old-fashioned rolled oats, brown sugar, and a dash of ground cinnamon. To bring it all together, add cold, cubed unsalted butter—this is key for that crumbly texture. For a delightful nuttiness, feel free to toss in some chopped pecans.
Peach Filling
Next up is the luscious peach filling. You'll want a large egg to bind everything together, along with granulated sugar for sweetness, a bit of flour for consistency, and a sprinkle of salt to enhance the flavors. Finally, don’t skimp on the star ingredients: fresh peaches, which you should peel and chop—these will bring that summery sweetness that’s simply irresistible.
Vanilla Icing
Finish your Peaches & Cream Bars with a delectable vanilla icing. You’ll need confectioners’ sugar, a splash of milk, and a hint of pure vanilla extract. This drizzle adds the perfect finishing touch and takes these bars to the next level of deliciousness!
For more information on the importance of using fresh ingredients, check out this article on health benefits of fresh produce.
Preparing Peaches & Cream Bars
Creating delicious Peaches & Cream Bars at home is a delightful experience—perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy dessert night. Follow these simple steps for a treat that’s sure to impress!
Preheat the oven and prepare the pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the crust to a golden perfection. While it heats, grab an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan and line the bottom and sides with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Leave some overhang to make lifting out the bars a breeze! Don’t forget to spray the lining with nonstick spray or grease it with butter for easy removal later.
Make the crust and topping mixture
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of old-fashioned oats, ⅓ cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Whisk these together until nicely blended—this is where the magic starts! Now, cut in 10 tablespoons of cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside ¾ cup of this mixture in a small bowl and mix in ½ cup of chopped pecans if you’d like some crunch!
Prepare the peach filling
Next up is the peach filling—this is the star of your Peaches & Cream Bars! In another bowl, whisk together 1 large egg and ½ cup of granulated sugar until smooth. Stir in 1 tablespoon of flour and ¼ teaspoon of salt, followed by 2 medium, peeled, and chopped peaches (that’s about 1.5 cups). Mix gently and make sure those juicy peach pieces are well coated!
Bake the crust and add the filling
Take your crust mixture and press the majority of it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Pop it in the oven for 15 minutes—this helps create a sturdy base for your filling. While it’s baking, keep an eye on the aroma wafting through your kitchen. It’s heavenly! After 15 minutes, pour the peach filling over the hot crust and sprinkle the reserved oat and pecan mixture on top.
Finish the baking process and cool
Return your pan to the oven and bake for 30 to 32 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown. Once baked, let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for approximately 30 minutes. Then, transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours before slicing. Waiting can be tough, but it’s worth it!
Make the vanilla icing
Last but not least, let’s drizzle some sweetness on top. In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup of confectioners’ sugar, 1 tablespoon of milk, and ½ teaspoon of pure vanilla extract until smooth. If it’s too thick, just add a touch more milk. Drizzle this over your chilled Peaches & Cream Bars before slicing into squares. Enjoy the marvelous blend of flavors and textures!
Now you're all set to savor this summertime treat!
Variations on Peaches & Cream Bars
Add Different Fruits for a Twist
While peaches provide a classic flavor, feel free to explore other fruits! Consider substituting with nectarines, plums, or even berries like blueberries or raspberries for a vibrant twist. Mixing fruits can add exciting variations in taste and texture while keeping your Peaches & Cream Bars deliciously fruity.
Incorporate Nuts or Seeds for Extra Crunch
For an added crunch and extra nutrition, nuts or seeds can elevate your bars. Try almonds, walnuts, or even pumpkin seeds mixed into the crust or topping. Not only do they enhance the flavor, but they'll also provide a satisfying crunch that makes each bite even more enjoyable. Plus, the healthy fats from nuts can boost the nutritional profile of your dessert.
By varying your Peaches & Cream Bars, you’ll keep your friends and family excited for your next baking adventure!
Cooking notes for Peaches & Cream Bars
Make-ahead Tips
These delightful Peaches & Cream Bars can be prepared 1 to 3 days in advance, making them a stress-free treat for gatherings or quiet evenings at home. Just store them tightly covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve!
Freezing Instructions
Want to enjoy these bars later? No problem! You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just slice them into squares and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight. For further freezing tips, check out Saveur's freezing guide.
These steps will keep your Peaches & Cream Bars fresh and delicious for days!
Serving Suggestions for Peaches & Cream Bars
Pair with ice cream for an indulgent treat
For a truly decadent dessert experience, serve your Peaches & Cream Bars with a scoop of vanilla or peach ice cream. The creamy, rich texture of the ice cream perfectly complements the buttery crust and sweet peach filling. Consider adding a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for an extra touch of sweetness. This combination is sure to impress guests at your next gathering or simply satisfy your sweet tooth on a cozy night in.
Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea
These delightful bars make an excellent pairing with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warm, soothing flavors of your favorite brew enhance the sweet and fruity notes of the Peaches & Cream Bars. Whether you prefer a robust black coffee or a comforting herbal tea, this combo is perfect for a brunch date or a tranquil afternoon snack. Invite friends over for a tasting session—who can resist the allure of fresh peach goodness?
Time Details for Peaches & Cream Bars
Preparation time
Preparing these Peaches & Cream Bars is a breeze! Set aside just 15 minutes to gather and mix your ingredients.
Baking time
After the prep, let your creation bake for about 45 to 47 minutes—the aroma will have your neighbors wondering what’s cooking!
Total time
In just over 2 hours (including cooling), you’ll have delectable bars ready to impress at your next gathering or for a cozy night in. Calling all peach lovers—this treat is worth the wait!
Nutritional Information for Peaches & Cream Bars
Calories Per Serving
Each Peaches & Cream Bar serving contains approximately 200 calories. This makes them a delightful treat that's manageable within your daily caloric intake.
Key Nutrients
These bars are not just tasty; they also deliver essential nutrients, including:
- Dietary Fiber: Sourced from whole rolled oats and peaches, fiber aids in digestion.
- Vitamins A & C: Peaches contribute vital vitamins that support immune function and skin health.
- Healthy Fats: Pecans (if added) provide heart-friendly fats and protein.
Enjoy these delicious bars while knowing you’re treating yourself to a snack that offers nutritional benefits! If you're interested in diving deeper into the health advantages of oats and peaches, you might enjoy checking out Healthline's insights on fiber.
FAQs about Peaches & Cream Bars
Can I use frozen peaches?
Absolutely! Frozen peaches can be a great alternative to fresh ones. Just remember to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture, which can make your Peaches & Cream Bars too soggy. After draining, chop them into bite-sized pieces.
What can I substitute for brown sugar?
If you find yourself out of brown sugar, no worries! You can use granulated sugar mixed with a bit of molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses for every cup of granulated sugar) for a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, coconut sugar is a great substitute that will add a subtle caramel taste, perfect for our delicious Peaches & Cream Bars.
How do I store leftover bars?
To keep your Peaches & Cream Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay delicious for up to five days. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing them for up to three months; just thaw them in the fridge overnight before indulging!
Conclusion on Peaches & Cream Bars
Summing up the joy of homemade treats
In summary, Peaches & Cream Bars are a delightful way to bring a taste of summer into your kitchen, combining creamy peach goodness with a crunchy oat topping. They are easy to make and perfect for sharing. Treat yourself—you deserve the joy of homemade dessert!
Peaches & Cream Bars: Easy Indulgence for Summer Treats
Equipment
- 8-inch Square Baking Pan
- Whisk
- Cooling Rack
Ingredients
Crust & Topping
- 1 cup all-purpose flour spooned & leveled
- ½ cup old-fashioned whole rolled oats (or quick oats)
- ⅓ cup packed brown sugar light or dark
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 10 Tablespoons unsalted butter cold and cubed
- ½ cup chopped pecans optional
Peach Filling
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 medium peaches peeled and chopped (about 1.5 cups)
Vanilla Icing
- ½ cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 Tablespoon milk
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) degrees. Line the bottom and sides of an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil or parchment, leaving an overhang on all sides to easily lift the bars out of the pan before cutting. Spray with nonstick spray or grease with butter. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk the flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon together until combined. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or two forks until it reaches coarse, pea-sized crumbs. Remove ¾ cup of the mixture and mix it with pecans for topping.
- Evenly press the remaining oat mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake for 15 minutes while preparing the filling.
- Whisk the egg and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the flour and salt. Whisk until combined. Fold in the peaches. Remove crust from the oven after 15 minutes and pour the filling over hot crust. Sprinkle with reserved oat/pecan mixture.
- Bake for 30-32 minutes or until golden brown on top. Allow to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 30 minutes. Transfer to the refrigerator and allow to chill for 2 hours.
- Once chilled, lift the foil out of the pan using the overhang on the sides and cut into squares.
- Using a fork or spoon, whisk/stir the confectioners’ sugar, cream, and vanilla extract together until smooth. Drizzle over each square.
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