Introduction to Peach Crumb Bars
Peach crumb bars are more than just a sweet treat; they’re an easy, delicious solution for young professionals on the go. Imagine coming home after a long day at work, craving something satisfying yet simple. These bars strike the perfect balance between indulgence and convenience, making them an ideal snack for busy lifestyles. You can whip up a batch in just over an hour and store them for a quick grab-and-go option.
Not only do peach crumb bars offer a burst of flavor from ripe, juicy peaches, but they also blend the perfect crumbly texture with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg. Packed with essential vitamins and nutrients from the fruit, they can boost your energy levels without the guilt. Plus, with 24 servings, they’re perfect for sharing with friends or colleagues during casual work gatherings or laid-back weekends.
If you're wondering how to elevate your snacking game, why not try these bars alongside a refreshing glass of iced tea? You don’t need to be a baking expert to impress your pals. So, why not embrace your inner chef and give this peach crumb bar recipe a try? You might just create your new favorite snack!
Ingredients for Peach Crumb Bars
When whipping up a batch of delightful peach crumb bars, having the right ingredients is essential for achieving that perfect blend of flavor and texture. Let’s break this down into two key components: the dough and the filling.
For the Dough
To create the irresistible crust that holds everything together, you’ll need:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: This serves as the foundation of your dough.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: A leavening agent that gives the bars a light texture.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes: The secret to a flaky crust.
- 1 egg, lightly beaten: Binds the ingredients together while adding moisture.
For the Filling
Now, let’s talk about the star of the show—your peach filling. Gather the following:
- 5 cups diced or sliced peaches (about 7 peaches, peeled): Fresh, ripe peaches are crucial for that juicy flavor.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds brightness and helps balance the sweetness.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the filling as it bakes.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the peaches beautifully.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, aromatic touch.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: For that warm, comforting flavor.
With these ingredients in hand, you're well on your way to creating scrumptious peach crumb bars. Happy baking!
Preparing Peach Crumb Bars
Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare your baking pan
Let’s get started on those delectable peach crumb bars! First, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While that’s warming up, grab a 9x13-inch baking pan and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter. This ensures your bars will peel away effortlessly after baking, presenting those juicy peach layers in all their glory.
Step 2: Make the dough base
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. The combination of these dry ingredients helps create a sturdy yet crumbly base for our bars. Next, it’s time to incorporate the cold, cubed butter—1 cup in total. Use a pastry blender for this, cutting the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This method ensures that the butter remains cold, which is vital for achieving that perfect crumble texture. Finally, stir in one lightly beaten egg for binding.
You may want to press half of this dough mixture into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Once that's done, pop both the pan and the remaining dough into the refrigerator while you prepare the peach filling. This chilling step allows the dough to firm up, making it easier to work with later.
Step 3: Prepare the peach filling
For the filling, take about 5 cups of diced or sliced peaches—roughly 7 medium peaches, peeled. In a large bowl, drizzle them with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to enhance the flavor and prevent browning. In a separate bowl, combine ½ cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, ¼ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Mix these dry ingredients well, then pour them over the peaches, gently folding until they’re just coated.
This filling is where the magic happens; the spices and sugar draw out the moisture of the peaches, creating a delightful, sweet contrast to the crumbly base.
Step 4: Assemble the crumb bars
Now that your fillings are ready, it’s time to assemble the peach crumb bars. Spread that luscious peach mixture evenly over the dough base in the pan. Then, take the remaining crumb mixture and crumble it evenly over the top of the peach filling—think of it as a thick blanket of flavor!
Step 5: Bake and cool
Slide the pan into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 45 minutes, or until the top is slightly golden brown. Your kitchen will be filled with the warm, inviting scent of baked peaches and spices—who could resist? After baking, allow the pan to cool completely before cutting it into squares. This step is essential for achieving clean edges. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days at room temperature, or freeze them for later enjoyment. You can do this for up to 2 months!
There you have it—a step-by-step guide to crafting your very own peach crumb bars! Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, these bars are sure to impress! For more delicious recipes, check out Love and Lemons for fresh ingredient ideas.
Variations on Peach Crumb Bars
Substitute with Different Fruits
While peach crumb bars are delightful as they are, consider swapping in other fruits for a twist! Fresh blueberries, juicy raspberries, or even pears can create equally delicious results. Each fruit brings its own flavor profile, so get adventurous! Just keep the same amounts to ensure texture remains unchanged. You'll love experimenting with seasonal fruits—check your local farmer's market for inspiration!
Add Nuts or Oats for Texture
If you crave a bit more crunch, try incorporating chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts into your peach crumb bars. Alternatively, mix in some rolled oats to the crumb topping for a heartier texture. Not only will this enhance the taste, but it’ll also elevate the nutritional value of your treat! Have fun customizing and enjoy the delightful surprise of new flavors in every bite!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Peach Crumb Bars
Best Ways to Slice Peaches
When it comes to slicing peaches for peach crumb bars, the key is in the ripeness. Choose peaches that yield slightly when pressed. To slice, make a cut around the pit and twist the halves to separate them. Use a small knife to carefully slice away the skin and pit. If your peaches are a bit firm, you can blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds to loosen the skin easily.
How to Keep the Crust Flaky
A flaky crust is essential for delicious peach crumb bars. Use cold butter in your dough, and avoid over-mixing—this helps maintain that crumbly texture. Additionally, chilling your dough before baking allows the butter to solidify, creating steam pockets that lead to flakiness. Lastly, consider using a combination of all-purpose and whole wheat flour for added texture and flavor.
For more tips, check out Serious Eats on pie crust. Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions for Peach Crumb Bars
Pairing with Vanilla Ice Cream
One of the simplest yet most delightful ways to enjoy peach crumb bars is by serving them warm with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The rich, smooth texture of the ice cream perfectly balances the sweet, juicy peach filling and crumbly topping. If you want to elevate this classic combo, consider drizzling a bit of honey or caramel sauce over the ice cream. It not only adds an extra layer of flavor but also makes your dessert feel a bit more indulgent.
Ideal Beverages to Accompany
When it comes to drinks, there are several fantastic options to complement your peach crumb bars. A refreshing glass of iced tea, infused with a hint of lemon, can enhance the fruity notes of the bars. For a non-caffeinated alternative, a homemade peach lemonade will echo the peachy flavors and leave you feeling revitalized. Looking for something different? A sparkling water or a flavored seltzer adds a fizzy touch that keeps things light and refreshing.
Feel free to experiment with these pairings—what’s your favorite way to enjoy peach crumb bars?
Time Breakdown for Peach Crumb Bars
Preparation Time
Getting started with your peach crumb bars takes about 30 minutes. During this time, you’ll mix the dough and prepare the delicious peach filling.
Baking Time
The baking process requires 45 minutes, allowing you to relax while the bars transform into a golden, crumbly delight!
Total Time
In total, you’ll spend approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for an afternoon treat or dessert for a gathering!
Are you ready to put on your apron and whip up these tasty bars? Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to share your experience! For more peachy goodness, check out resources like The Peach Truck for the freshest peaches.
Nutritional Facts for Peach Crumb Bars
Calories per bar
Each delicious peach crumb bar packs approximately 214 calories. This makes them a satisfying yet manageable treat, perfect for a mid-afternoon snack or dessert without going overboard on your calorie intake.
Key nutrients to consider
When indulging in these crumbly delights, it’s essential to be mindful of some key nutrients:
- Carbohydrates: Each bar contains about 33g of carbs, primarily from the peaches and flour, providing a quick energy boost.
- Fat: With 8g of fat, these bars offer a nice balance of richness, thanks in part to the butter.
- Sugar: At 19g, the sugar content gives these bars their delightful sweetness, coming naturally from the peaches and added sugar.
- Protein: While they aren’t a protein powerhouse, offering 2g, these bars can still be a part of a well-rounded snack when paired with a protein-rich food like a yogurt dip.
These peach crumb bars are a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth while enjoying the benefits of fresh fruit. If you're curious about the health benefits of peaches, check out this informative article for more insights!
FAQs about Peach Crumb Bars
How can I make these gluten-free?
To whip up gluten-free peach crumb bars, simply swap out the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check for a blend that contains xanthan gum to maintain the right texture. You might also consider almond flour for added moisture.
Can I replace peaches with another fruit?
Absolutely! While peaches shine in this recipe, you can experiment with other fruits like blueberries, cherries, or apricots. Just remember to adjust the sugar if the fruit you choose is tart or sweet. This flexibility makes it a fantastic year-round recipe!
How long do they last?
Once baked, these delightful peach crumb bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer preservation, consider freezing them. They'll maintain quality for about two months, making them an excellent option for meal prep or last-minute snacks!
For more tips on perfecting your bars, check out sites like Epicurious and Food Network.
Conclusion on Peach Crumb Bars
Summing up the delightful experience of homemade snacks
In conclusion, peach crumb bars offer a wonderful combination of sweet, juicy peaches and a crumbly texture that makes them an unforgettable homemade treat. They're perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying during quiet moments at home. So why not whip up a batch today? Your taste buds will thank you!
Peach Crumb Bars
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking pan
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
For the Filling
- 5 cups diced or sliced peaches about 7 peaches, peeled
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- Make the Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Use a pastry blender to cut in the butter, and then the egg. The dough will be crumbly. Pat half of the dough into the prepared pan. Place the pan and the remainder of the dough in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Filling: Place the diced (or sliced) peaches in a large bowl and sprinkle with lemon juice. Mix gently. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg. Pour over the peaches and mix gently.
- Spread the peach mixture evenly over the crust. Crumble the remaining dough over the peach layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the top is slightly brown. Cool completely before cutting into squares. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months.
Leave a Reply