Incredible Peach Crumble Bars: A Deliciously Easy Summer Dessert

Peach crumble bars are the perfect summer treat, combining the sweetness of ripe peaches with a buttery, oat-infused crust. These easy-to-make bars are just the right balance of tender fruit and crispy crumble, creating a delightful bite with every piece. Whether you’re hosting a summer party, looking for a quick dessert, or wanting to use up those fresh peaches, this recipe is sure to impress. And the best part? You only need one simple dough for both the crust and topping, making this dessert incredibly easy and quick to prepare. Let’s dive into how you can make these irresistible peach crumble bars!

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History or Background

Crumble desserts, including peach crumble bars, have roots in traditional European baking, dating back to the early 19th century. Originating in the UK, crumbles were initially made as a way to use up leftover fruit, often paired with a buttery, oat-based topping. The peach crumble, in particular, became popular in the United States, where peaches are widely grown and enjoyed. Over time, the classic crumble evolved into variations like bars and crisps, making it even easier to enjoy this delicious treat on the go. Today, peach crumble bars offer a convenient and indulgent way to enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of a classic peach crumble in a portable form.

Why You’ll Love Peach Crumble Bars

Peach crumble bars are a delightful dessert that you’ll want to make again and again. Here are a few reasons why:

1. Simple Ingredients – With just a few pantry staples, you can create a delicious treat that feels homemade and indulgent.
2. Perfect Balance of Texture – The buttery oat crust and crumble topping pair beautifully with the juicy, soft peaches, providing the ideal mix of crunchy and tender.
3. Make-Ahead & Easy to Store – These bars can be made in advance and stored for later, making them perfect for busy days or gatherings.
4. Versatile – Whether for a summer picnic, a holiday dessert, or a snack, these bars fit any occasion, and you can even freeze them for later enjoyment.

These peach crumble bars are an irresistible dessert that everyone will love, and they’ll become your go-to summer treat!

Ingredients for Peach Crumble Bars

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

For the crust and topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (140g)
• 1⅓ cup rolled oats (130g)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar (155g)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp salt (optional)
• ⅔ cup unsalted butter, melted (150g)

For the peach filling:

1 tsp almond extract (optional)

2 cups peeled, chopped peaches (450g)

2 tbsp sugar (30g)

2 tsp cornstarch

1 tsp fresh lemon juice

How to Make Peach Crumble Bars

Follow these simple steps to make your peach crumble bars:

1. Preheat the Oven
   Set your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Peaches
   Peel (optional) and chop the peaches into ½ to 1-inch pieces. Toss the chopped peaches in a bowl with lemon juice and almond extract. Stir in sugar and cornstarch, then set aside to let the mixture rest.
3. Make the Dough
   In a large bowl, combine flour, oats, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture forms a crumbly dough.
4. Form the Crust
   Press about two-thirds of the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan. This will form the base for your bars.
5. Add the Peach Filling
   Spoon the prepared peach mixture evenly over the crust, being careful to leave any excess juice behind.
6. Add the Topping
   Crumble the remaining dough over the top of the peach filling, pressing it down lightly to help it stick.
7. Bake the Bars
   Bake in the preheated oven for 33–35 minutes, or until the bars are golden and the peach filling is bubbling around the edges.
8. Cool and Chill
   Let the bars cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then place them in the fridge for at least 90 minutes before slicing. This will help them firm up for clean cuts.
9. Optional Syrup Drizzle
   If you reserved some peach juice, you can cook it down into a syrup and drizzle it over the cooled bars for extra flavor.

Pro Tips

1. Use Firm Peaches – For the best texture, use ripe but firm peaches. Overripe peaches may release too much juice, making the bars soggy.
2. Chill the Bars Before Slicing – For clean and neat slices, make sure the bars are fully chilled in the fridge before cutting. This will help them hold their shape.
3. Customize the Flavor – Feel free to swap almond extract with vanilla extract for a different flavor profile, or add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, spiced touch.

Serving Ideas or Usage Tips

Peach crumble bars are versatile and can be served in many ways:

• Serve Warm with Ice Cream – For a decadent treat, warm up the bars and top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Perfect for Breakfast or Snacks – These bars make for a tasty, portable breakfast or afternoon snack with a cup of coffee or tea.
• Great for Picnics or Parties – Their sturdy texture makes these bars perfect for picnics, potlucks, or outdoor gatherings.

No matter how you serve them, peach crumble bars are sure to be a hit!

Storage Advice or Shelf Life Information

To keep your peach crumble bars fresh:

• Room Temperature: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: For longer freshness, refrigerate the bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Place parchment paper between layers of bars for easy separation, and thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Find out more: Fabulous Grilled Eggplant with Herbs: A Delicious Mediterranean Side Dish

FAQs

Does peach crumble need to be refrigerated?

Yes, peach crumble bars should be stored in the fridge for optimal freshness, especially if you plan to keep them for more than a couple of days. They will last up to 5 days when stored properly.

Should you peel peaches for peach crumble?

Peeling the peaches is optional. If you prefer a smoother texture and want to avoid the skin, peel them. However, leaving the skin on adds extra fiber and a rustic look.

Do blueberry crumble bars need to be refrigerated?

Yes, like peach crumble bars, blueberry crumble bars should be refrigerated if you’re keeping them for more than a couple of days. They can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

What is the difference between a peach crumble and a peach crisp?

The main difference lies in the topping: A peach crumble typically uses a combination of butter, oats, sugar, and flour, while a peach crisp has a more crunchy topping often made with oats and brown sugar, sometimes with added nuts or spices.

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Conclusion

Peach crumble bars are a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that combines juicy peaches with a buttery, oat-filled crumble topping. Perfect for summer, they’re a versatile treat that can be served as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast. Whether you’re enjoying them at a picnic or as a sweet treat at home, these bars will quickly become a favorite. Don’t forget to chill them for a clean, perfect slice. Give them a try today, and enjoy the irresistible combination of fruit and crumble in every bite!

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