Peach Pie Crumble Bars

Peach Pie Crumble Bars are the perfect blend of flavors that bring together the best aspects of both peach pie and peach crumble. With a buttery shortbread base, juicy peaches, and a crunchy oatmeal topping, these bars are ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, they are sure to impress with their delightful taste and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, these bars can be whipped up quickly.
• Deliciously Versatile: Enjoy them as a dessert after dinner or as a sweet snack during the day.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut into squares, they are easy to share at parties or family gatherings.
• Fresh Peach Flavor: The use of fresh peaches provides a vibrant taste that shines through in every bite.
• Crumble Topping Delight: The crunchy oatmeal crumble adds the perfect textural contrast to the soft peach filling.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Peach Pie Crumble Bars, having the right tools will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Parchment paper
• 8×8 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes it easy to lift the bars out of the pan once they cool.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess; larger bowls can also help incorporate air into the mixture for better texture.

Ingredients

These Peach Pie Crumble Bars combine the 2 best peach recipes around – peach pie & peach crumble. They start with a buttery shortbread base. Then they have a layer of juicy peaches followed by crunchy oatmeal crumble.

For the Shortbread Base

• 1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2/3 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Peach Filling

• 3 cups chopped peaches, about 4-5 large peaches
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, or water
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch

For the Oatmeal Crumble Topping

• 3/4 cup flour
• 1/4 cup large flake oats, quick oats or old-fashioned oats work too
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4-5 tablespoons cream, or milk

How to Make Peach Pie Crumble Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang around the edges for easier removal later.

Step 2: Make the Shortbread Base

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour,
2. 1/2 cup powdered sugar,
3. 1/4 teaspoon salt.
Then stir in:
4. 2/3 cup melted unsalted butter until combined.

Press this mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan and bake for about 15 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 3: Prepare the Peach Filling

While your base is baking, prepare your peach filling:
1. In another bowl, toss together:
– 3 cups chopped peaches,
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar,
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (or water),
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch.
Ensure all peaches are evenly coated in this mixture.

Step 4: Make the Oatmeal Crumble Topping

In yet another bowl, combine:
1. 3/4 cup flour,
2. 1/4 cup large flake oats,
3. 1/3 cup brown sugar,
4. 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
Then stir in:
5. 1/3 cup melted unsalted butter until it resembles wet sand.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Spread the peach mixture evenly on top of your baked shortbread base. Next, crumble your oatmeal topping using your palms and sprinkle it over the peach layer generously.

Bake in your preheated oven at 350°F for about 35-45 minutes, or until the topping looks golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Glaze

Once baked, allow your bars to cool completely in the pan. In a small bowl, whisk together:
– 1 cup powdered sugar,
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract,
– enough cream (about 4-5 tablespoons) to achieve a smooth consistency.

Drizzle this glaze over your cooled bars before slicing them into squares for serving!

How to Serve Peach Pie Crumble Bars

Peach Pie Crumble Bars are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer them plain or dressed up, these bars offer flexibility to suit any occasion.

Enjoy Warm with Ice Cream

• Pair your warm Peach Pie Crumble Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert that balances the sweetness of the peaches with creamy goodness.

Drizzle with Glaze

• Enhance the flavor by drizzling the sweet glaze made from powdered sugar and cream over the bars just before serving. This adds an extra touch of sweetness.

Serve with Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top each bar with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for added richness. The lightness of the cream complements the dense crumbly texture perfectly.

Garnish with Fresh Peaches

• For a fresh twist, add slices of ripe peaches on top of each bar. This will not only make them look appealing but also boost their fruity flavor.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these bars alongside your favorite coffee or tea. The combination makes for a perfect afternoon snack or dessert pairing.

How to Perfect Peach Pie Crumble Bars

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

• Use Ripe Peaches – Select peaches that are firm yet slightly soft to the touch for the best flavor and juiciness.
• Chill Your Butter – Cold butter helps achieve a flaky shortbread base. Do not let it sit out too long before mixing.
• Don’t Overmix – When combining ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bars.
• Let Them Cool Completely – Allow your bars to cool fully before cutting. This helps them set properly and makes slicing easier.
• Adjust Sweetness – Taste your peach filling before baking and adjust sugar levels based on your preference and the sweetness of the peaches.
• Experiment with Toppings – Feel free to try different toppings like nuts or coconut flakes in your crumble for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Peach Pie Crumble Bars

Peach Pie Crumble Bars pair beautifully with various side dishes that complement their flavors and textures. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Yogurt – A creamy yogurt enhances the fruitiness while adding a tangy contrast.
2. Fruit Salad – A fresh mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the rich bars.
3. Cheese Platter – Serve with mild cheeses like brie or gouda; their creaminess offsets the sweetness well.
4. Nutty Granola – A scoop of granola adds crunch and can be sprinkled on top for extra texture.
5. Ice Cream Float – Combine your favorite soda with ice cream for a fizzy treat alongside your bars.
6. Herbal Tea – A warm cup of herbal tea complements the dessert nicely, providing an aromatic experience.
7. Chocolate Sauce – Drizzle chocolate sauce over your bars for a decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
8. Coconut Whipped Cream – A dairy-free alternative that adds tropical flair while keeping it light and fluffy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Peach Pie Crumble Bars, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Incorrect peach ripeness: Using under ripe or overripe peaches can affect the flavor. Choose firm, slightly soft peaches for the best results.
• Skipping the chilling step: Not allowing the shortbread base to cool before adding toppings can lead to a soggy texture. Let it cool completely after baking.
• Overmixing the crumble: Mixing the crumble too much can make it dense instead of light and crumbly. Mix just until combined.
• Ignoring baking time: Each oven is different, so keep an eye on your bars. They should be golden brown on top, but check at the lower end of the baking time.
• Not letting it cool properly: Cutting into warm bars can lead to messy slices. Let them cool completely for clean cuts.
• Using too much sugar: Adjust sugar levels based on peach sweetness. Taste your filling before adding all the sugar.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Peach Pie Crumble Bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Peach Pie Crumble Bars

• Freeze bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy reference.

Reheating Peach Pie Crumble Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual servings on low power for 15-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Peach Pie Crumble Bars?

Peach Pie Crumble Bars are a delicious dessert that combines layers of buttery shortbread, juicy peaches, and a crunchy oatmeal topping.

Can I use canned peaches for this recipe?

Yes, you can use canned peaches, but make sure to drain them well and adjust the sugar since they are usually sweeter than fresh peaches.

How do I customize my Peach Pie Crumble Bars?

Feel free to add different fruits like blueberries or raspberries, or mix nuts into the crumble topping for extra crunch!

What can I serve with Peach Pie Crumble Bars?

These bars pair wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, enhancing their sweet peach flavor.

Final Thoughts

Peach Pie Crumble Bars are a delightful dessert that beautifully blends classic flavors in a convenient form. They are perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Feel free to customize with your favorite fruit or toppings! Enjoy these versatile bars any time of year.