Heavenly Summer Peach Bars

These Heavenly Summer Peach Bars are a delightful treat that combines the rich taste of buttery crust with juicy peaches and a light, cake-like topping. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a sweet afternoon snack, these bars will impress your friends and family. With their fresh peach flavor and satisfying texture, they stand out as a must-try dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these bars in no time.
• Fresh Flavors: The combination of juicy peaches and zesty lemon juice creates a refreshing taste that screams summer.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for any occasion, these bars are perfect for picnics, potlucks, or just a cozy night at home.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With their sweet aroma and beautiful presentation, they are sure to be a hit among family and friends.
• Make Ahead Option: These bars can be made in advance, allowing for easy serving when you need it.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Heavenly Summer Peach Bars, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure ease of preparation. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking pan: This size is perfect for even baking and ensures you get the right thickness for your bars.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls helps keep ingredients organized during preparation.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for combining wet ingredients smoothly, ensuring a well-mixed topping.

Ingredients

These Heavenly Summer Peach Bars are a dreamy combination of buttery crust, juicy peaches, and a tender, cake-like topping. They’re bursting with fresh peach flavor and perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or a sweet afternoon treat.

For the Crust

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Filling

• 3 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced (about 4 medium peaches)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Topping

• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Heavenly Summer Peach Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar.
2. Gradually add in the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until crumbly.
3. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form the crust.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Bake the crust in your preheated oven for 15 minutes. Once done, remove it from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

While your crust bakes:
1. In another bowl, combine diced fresh peaches, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch.
2. Toss gently until all peach pieces are well coated.

Step 5: Assemble Layered Bars

Spread the peach filling evenly over your pre-baked crust.

Step 6: Make the Topping

In another mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, sour cream, flour, and vanilla extract.
2. Mix until smooth to create your topping batter.

Step 7: Add Topping & Bake Again

Pour this topping evenly over the peach layer in your baking pan. Return everything to the oven and bake for an additional 35–40 minutes or until set and lightly golden on top.

Step 8: Cool & Serve

Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. For cleaner cuts, chill them in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving. Enjoy these Heavenly Summer Peach Bars!

How to Serve Heavenly Summer Peach Bars

Heavenly Summer Peach Bars are versatile and delightful, making them perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic or looking for a sweet treat for your afternoon coffee, these bars can be served in numerous delicious ways.

For Picnics

• Packaged Slices: Cut the bars into squares and place them in individual parchment paper wraps for easy transport.
• Fruit Salad Pairing: Serve alongside a refreshing fruit salad to complement the peach flavor.

With Ice Cream

• A La Mode: Top each bar with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
• Sundae Style: Drizzle warm caramel or chocolate sauce over the bars with whipped cream for a sundae twist.

At Gatherings

• Dessert Platter: Arrange the bars on a platter with other summer desserts, like brownies or cookies, to create an inviting dessert spread.
• Coffee Break Treats: Pair the bars with coffee or tea during afternoon gatherings for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.

For Special Occasions

• Birthday Celebrations: Customize the bars by adding colorful sprinkles on top for birthdays or festive events.
• Picnic Desserts: Include these peach bars in your picnic basket as a sweet highlight alongside savory snacks.

How to Perfect Heavenly Summer Peach Bars

To ensure your Heavenly Summer Peach Bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Peaches: Use ripe, juicy peaches for maximum flavor. Overripe or under-ripe peaches may affect the texture and taste.
• Chill Before Cutting: Let the bars cool completely and chill in the refrigerator before slicing to achieve cleaner cuts.
• Adjust Sweetness: If your peaches are particularly sweet, reduce the sugar in the filling to balance flavors.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh eggs and high-quality butter to enhance the overall taste and texture of your bars.
• Experiment with Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the topping mixture for an aromatic boost that complements peaches beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Heavenly Summer Peach Bars

Heavenly Summer Peach Bars pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances sweetness.
2. Fresh Berry Salad: A light and refreshing side that adds tartness to contrast with the sweetness of the bars.
3. Lemon Sorbet: A zesty sorbet that cleanses the palate and provides a refreshing touch.
4. Whipped Cream Topping: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on top for added richness.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory contrast to the sweet bars.
6. Mint Tea: A chilled mint tea enhances summer vibes while complementing the fruity flavors of peach bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Heavenly Summer Peach Bars can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using unripe peaches: Unripe peaches lack flavor and sweetness. Always choose ripe, juicy peaches for the best taste.
• Overmixing the crust: Overmixing can lead to a tough crust. Mix just until crumbly for a tender base.
• Skipping the cooling step: Cutting warm bars can result in messy squares. Allow the bars to cool completely for clean cuts.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Accurate measurements are key in baking. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
• These Heavenly Summer Peach Bars will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Heavenly Summer Peach Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating Heavenly Summer Peach Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen peaches for Heavenly Summer Peach Bars?

Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just thaw and drain excess liquid before using them in the recipe.

How do I know when the peach bars are done baking?

The topping should be set and lightly golden when done. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Can I customize the toppings of my Heavenly Summer Peach Bars?

Absolutely! Consider adding nuts or spices like cinnamon for added flavor and texture.

What is the best way to serve Heavenly Summer Peach Bars?

These bars are delicious served chilled or at room temperature, perfect for summer gatherings or picnics!

Final Thoughts

Heavenly Summer Peach Bars are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various fruits or toppings, making them suitable for any occasion. Try this simple recipe today, and enjoy the delightful taste of summer!

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Heavenly Summer Peach Bars

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Heavenly Summer Peach Bars are an irresistible dessert that perfectly captures the essence of summer. With a buttery crust, luscious fresh peaches, and a light, cake-like topping, these bars are ideal for warm-weather gatherings, picnics, or as a sweet afternoon indulgence. The delightful combination of juicy peaches and zesty lemon creates a refreshing flavor that will have your friends and family coming back for more. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these bars can be prepared in advance, ensuring you have a delicious treat ready for any occasion.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup unsalted butter
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for filling)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup granulated sugar (for topping)
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour (for topping)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. For the crust, cream together butter and sugar, then mix in flour until crumbly. Press into the pan and bake for 15 minutes.
3. Prepare the peach filling by combining diced peaches, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch in a bowl.
4. Spread the peach mixture over the baked crust.
5. For the topping, whisk together eggs, sugar, sour cream, flour, and vanilla until smooth. Pour over the peaches.
6. Bake for an additional 35-40 minutes until set and golden.
7. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (60g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 55mg