Ah, Peach Pie Bars! These delightful treats bring back the sweetest memories of summer afternoons spent in my grandma’s kitchen, where the air was filled with the scent of ripe peaches and sugar. Whenever I take a bite of these bars, I’m instantly transported back to those carefree days, sitting on the porch, talking about anything and everything while savoring her freshly baked goodies. What I love about Peach Pie Bars, aside from their incredible flavor, is how simple they are to make. They’re the perfect balance of buttery crust, juicy peach filling, and a crumbly topping, all in a portable format! Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or just a cozy evening snack at home.
They just scream summer, don’t they? Even when the season changes, you can still enjoy the taste of sunshine with this easy recipe. Let’s dig into the details of what you’ll need to create this delicious dessert.
What’s in Peach Pie Bars?
Peaches: The star of the show! Fresh, ripe peaches are the best, but if you can’t find any in season, frozen peaches will work in a pinch. Make sure to slice them up so they get all juicy!
Sugar: Essential for sweetening not just the peaches, but also the crust and topping. I usually go for granulated sugar, but a little brown sugar mixed in can add a lovely depth of flavor.
Flour: This is the backbone of the crust and crumb topping. I prefer all-purpose flour for its versatility, but you could certainly experiment with whole wheat for a nuttier flavor.
Butter: The secret to a flaky, tender crust! I always use unsalted butter so I can control the saltiness of the bars. Plus, there’s nothing like the smell of melted butter!
Oats: These add a delightful chewiness to the topping. Rolled oats work great—quick oats might get lost in the mix.
Baking Powder: A leavening agent that helps give our crust and topping a little rise and fluffiness. It’s a small but mighty player!
Cinnamon: This warm spice complements the peaches so beautifully and makes your kitchen smell divine while they bake!
Is Peach Pie Bars Good for You?
Now, let’s talk health. While I would never claim that peach pie bars are a health food, there are some good things mixed in!
Peaches: These juicy fruits are packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. They can be hydrating and contribute to overall well-being.
Oats: High in fiber, oats are known for their heart-healthy benefits. They can help with digestion and may even lower cholesterol levels. Who knew a dessert could be so good for you?
Of course, moderation is key. These bars do contain sugar and butter, so it’s a treat to enjoy occasionally rather than every day. But when you do treat yourself to these Peach Pie Bars, savor every crumb—you’ll be glad you did!
Ingredients List
– 2 cups fresh or frozen peaches, sliced
– ¾ cup granulated sugar (you can use less if your peaches are super sweet)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 egg (lightly beaten for the crust)
This recipe will serve about 12 bars, perfect for sharing (or not)!
How to Make Peach Pie Bars?
1. **Preheat the Oven:** First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that those bars bake evenly.
2. **Prepare the Peaches:** In a bowl, combine the sliced peaches with sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to allow the juices to develop.
3. **Make the Dough:** In another large bowl, mix flour, oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Then blend in softened butter until the mixture looks crumbly. Stir in the beaten egg until well combined.
4. **Create the Base:** Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and press about 2/3 of the mixture into the bottom of the dish. This will be your base crust!
5. **Layer the Peaches:** Spoon the peach mixture evenly over the crust. Be generous—the more peaches, the better!
6. **Top It Off:** Crumble the remaining dough mixture over the peaches, creating a lovely topping.
7. **Bake:** Place in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the peaches are bubbly.
8. **Cool and Cut:** Allow the bars to cool completely in the dish before cutting into squares. This will help them set properly.
Sweet Suggestions for Serving
These Peach Pie Bars are delicious on their own, but if you really want to impress, consider serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top or a drizzle of caramel sauce. I also like to add nuts to the crumb topping for some extra crunch—almonds or pecans work wonders!
Don’t be afraid to get creative: swap the peaches for your favorite fruit or add a touch of ginger for a zing.
Let me tell you, if you bring these bars to a gathering, you’ll be the star of the show—everyone will be asking for your secret recipe!
I hope you get to try these delightful Peach Pie Bars, and I can’t wait to hear how they turn out for you. It’s one of those recipes that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings a slice of summer into your home. Happy baking!
