These Easy Peach Crumble Bars are perfect for summer! They’re made with juicy peaches and a buttery oat topping that makes each bite delightful. Who could resist that sweet, crumbly goodness?
Whenever I make these, my kitchen smells like a peachy paradise! 🍑 They are simple to whip up and so yummy warm with a scoop of ice cream. Trust me, they’ll vanish in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Peaches: Juicy peaches are key to this recipe. If they’re not in season, frozen peaches work too; just thaw and drain excess liquid. I love using ripe yellow peaches but white peaches are also a sweet choice!
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are perfect for the crumble texture. If you need gluten-free options, look for certified gluten-free oats. I’ve also used quick oats in a pinch, but they can be softer.
Unsalted Butter: While I always go for unsalted to control the saltiness, you can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option. Just melt it and use the same amount!
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar gives a nice caramel flavor, but you can substitute with regular granulated sugar if needed. For a deeper flavor, dark brown sugar is a great choice.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crust?
A good crust is essential for these bars. Start by ensuring your butter is melted but not too hot—this keeps the mix from becoming greasy. When combining the ingredients, mix until just combined; over-mixing can lead to a tough texture!
- Grease the pan, or use parchment paper for easy removal.
- Firmly press two-thirds of the crumb mixture into the pan. This part should be packed tight to hold up the peaches.
Lastly, allow enough time for the bars to cool before cutting them. This waiting can be tough, but it helps them set properly!
Easy Peach Crumble Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust and Topping:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Peach Filling:
- 4 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced (about 4-5 medium peaches)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional Topping:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation. You will then need to bake it for 40 to 45 minutes and let it cool completely before serving. Overall, plan for about 1 hour of baking and cooling time, making it perfect for an afternoon treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bars bake evenly. Next, grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Mix the Crust and Topping:
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Then, pour in the melted butter and stir until everything is nicely combined. The mixture should be crumbly but press together easily when you squeeze it in your hand.
3. Form the Base:
Press about two-thirds of the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This forms a solid crust that holds the juicy peaches nicely.
4. Prepare the Peach Filling:
In a separate bowl, combine the sliced peaches, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and cinnamon. Toss everything together nicely to coat the peaches evenly.
5. Add the Filling:
Evenly spread the peach mixture over the crust layer in the pan. Don’t worry if some juice spills out; that will make it even more delicious!
6. Finish with Crumble:
Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the peaches. It doesn’t have to be perfect; a few gaps are okay to let the peach juices peek through!
7. Bake:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 to 45 minutes. You’re looking for a golden top and bubbly peaches. The fragrance will be amazing!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This helps the bars set nicely. After cooling, cut into squares or rectangles and dust with powdered sugar if you wish before serving.
Enjoy your refreshing and delicious peach crumble bars this summer! They’re perfect for sharing at picnics, barbecues, or just enjoying at home. 🍑✨
FAQ for Easy Peach Crumble Bars
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mixing them in. This prevents the bars from becoming too watery.
How Do I Store Leftover Peach Crumble Bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Just thaw them in the fridge before enjoying!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil, and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) instead of the cornstarch if you’d like a binding agent. Just ensure the sugar you use is vegan-friendly!
What’s the Best Way to Serve Peach Crumble Bars?
These bars are delightful on their own, but you can also serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delicious treat!
