These Easy Peach Crumble Bars are a sweet treat that combines juicy peaches with a buttery crumble topping. They’re perfect for dessert or a snack!
Every bite feels like summer! I love how simple these bars are to make—just mix, layer, and bake. Plus, they are great warm or cold; it’s hard to stop at just one! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh peaches are ideal for this recipe, bringing a delicious juicy flavor. If they’re out of season, canned peaches work well too—just make sure to drain them well. Frozen peaches are another good option; just thaw and drain excess water.
Rolled Oats: I love using rolled oats for a chewy texture. If you need a gluten-free option, look for certified gluten-free oats. Quick oats can be used in a pinch, but the texture might be slightly different.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil or a plant-based butter can serve as a substitute, and it brings a slightly different flavor that I find enjoyable!
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds moisture and caramel notes to the bars. You can substitute it with granulated sugar, but the flavor will be a bit less rich. If you prefer a healthier option, try coconut sugar.
How Do I Make the Perfect Crumble Topping?
The crumble topping is key to making these bars delicious. It’s a simple mix of oats, flour, brown sugar, and butter. Here’s how to ensure it comes out perfectly every time:
- Mix dry ingredients first to combine them evenly. This helps distribute the baking powder and sugar.
- Use melted butter to achieve a crumbly texture. Don’t overmix; you want it to have some larger clumps for that perfect crunch.
- Press about two-thirds of the mixture firmly into the pan, as this helps form a solid base.
Remember, the goal is a golden, crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft peaches. Enjoy your baking! 🍑
Easy Peach Crumble Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust and Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Peach Filling:
- 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and chopped (or canned peaches, drained)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need to bake it for 35-40 minutes. Once done, let the bars cool for a bit before enjoying. Total time, including cooling: about 1 hour! Easy, right?
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Make the Crust and Crumble Topping:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and optional cinnamon. Mix it well. Then, add in the melted butter and stir until the dough is crumbly. You want it to be a bit sticky but not too wet.
3. Form the Base Layer:
Take about two-thirds of your crumb mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. This will create a solid base for your peach filling.
4. Prepare the Peach Filling:
In another bowl, toss together the chopped peaches with granulated sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. This will enhance the flavors! Spread the peach mixture evenly over the crumb base.
5. Add the Top Layer:
Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture generously over the peaches. This topping will create that delightful crumble you love!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the topping to turn a lovely golden brown and the peach filling to be bubbly.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. This will help them hold their shape. Enjoy your delicious Peach Crumble Bars!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen peaches work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture before using them in the filling to prevent your bars from becoming too soggy.
How Should I Store Leftover Peach Crumble Bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—just make sure they’re well-wrapped!
Can I Use a Different Type of Fruit?
Yes! These crumble bars are versatile. You can substitute peaches with other fruits like blueberries, apples, or berries. Just adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose.
How Do I Know When the Bars Are Done Baking?
Look for a golden brown topping and bubbly filling. You can also insert a toothpick into the topping; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bars are ready. Enjoy the delightful aroma while they bake!
