There’s something downright magical about the combination of peaches and cream, isn’t there? Imagine biting into a luscious bar that offers a sweet, juicy burst of peach flavor, balanced perfectly with a rich, creamy layer. The experience is akin to feeling the sun on your face while you lounge under a tree on a warm summer day. If you are anything like me, those blissful moments are what life is all about.
Now, let me take you back in time to my childhood summers spent at Grandma’s house. Every Saturday, she’d whip up her famous peaches and cream dessert, which was so good it made even the grumpiest neighbor smile. carrot cake for dessert lovers This recipe for Peaches and Cream Bars captures that nostalgia and joy in every bite, making it perfect for picnics, potlucks, or simply when you’re craving something delicious.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Peaches and Cream Bars are incredibly easy to prepare; even your kitchen-challenged friend will impress everyone.
- Bursting with flavor, they combine sweet peaches with creaminess for a taste sensation.
- Their vibrant colors will make them the star of any dessert table.
- Versatile enough to be served as breakfast bars or dessert, they adapt to any occasion!
Ingredients for Peaches and Cream Bars
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Peaches: Use ripe peaches for maximum sweetness and juiciness; they should give slightly when pressed.
- Granulated Sugar: This sweetener helps enhance the natural sugars in the peaches.
- Flour: All-purpose flour provides structure to your bars while keeping them soft and chewy.
- Baking Powder: Essential for giving your bars that delightful rise without making them too dense.
- Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness and flavor; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Eggs: Eggs bind everything together while adding moisture; be sure they’re at room temperature for best results.
- Heavy Cream: The star of our creamy layer; it makes these bars decadent and dreamy.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Peaches and Cream Bars
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab an 8×8-inch baking dish and grease it lightly with some butter or non-stick spray so those bars don’t stick around longer than necessary.
Step 2: Prepare Your Peach Filling
Chop up those fresh peaches into bite-sized pieces. In a medium bowl, toss them with a little granulated sugar—this will help draw out their juices as they bake.
Step 3: Mix the Base
In another bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then mix in flour and baking powder until just combined.
Step 4: Create the Cream Layer
In yet another bowl (I know, we’re getting a workout here), whisk heavy cream until soft peaks form. Fold this fluffy goodness gently into your batter until it’s beautifully combined but still light.
Step 5: Assemble
Spread half of your batter in the bottom of the greased baking dish. Layer on your prepared peaches evenly over this batter. Next, dollop the remaining batter on top of the peaches—don’t worry if it’s not perfect; rustic is charming!
Step 6: Bake Away
Pop your baking dish into the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top. A toothpick should come out clean from the center when they’re done!
Transfer to plates and enjoy these decadent bars either warm or chilled. They pair beautifully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence!
You Must Know
- Peaches and cream bars are the perfect blend of sweet and creamy goodness.
- This dessert is an excellent way to make use of those juicy summer peaches, creating a treat that’s as delicious as it is easy to whip up.
- Great for gatherings or just a cozy night in!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you slice those succulent peaches. Next, prepare the crust first, baking it until golden brown. As that cools, mix up the creamy filling, then layer it all together like a delicious peachy lasagna.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out peaches for other fruits like berries or apples if you’re feeling adventurous! You can also add spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor kick. homemade dipping sauce Don’t forget to drizzle some caramel sauce on top for added decadence!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover peaches and cream bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Enjoy them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always let the crust cool completely before adding the filling; this helps keep everything from getting soggy.
- Use ripe peaches for maximum sweetness and flavor; they should be slightly soft to the touch.
- When cutting bars, use a sharp knife dipped in warm water for cleaner edges.
It was a hot summer day when I first made these peaches and cream bars for family dessert night. Everyone raved about them, and my cousin even asked if I could make them every week! For more inspiration, check out this vanilla custard cream bars recipe.
FAQs:
What are Peaches and Cream Bars?
Peaches and Cream Bars are a delightful dessert made with fresh peaches and a creamy filling. These bars typically feature a buttery crust, layered with ripe peaches and a rich cream cheese mixture. They are perfect for summer gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of the year. apple and cranberry grilled cheese The combination of juicy peaches and smooth cream creates a mouthwatering experience that is both refreshing and satisfying.
How do I store Peaches and Cream Bars?
To keep your Peaches and Cream Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to five days when properly stored. If you need to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just thaw them in the fridge before serving.
Can I use canned peaches for Peaches and Cream Bars?
Yes, you can use canned peaches if fresh ones are not available. However, make sure to drain the peaches well before using them to avoid excess moisture in the bars. Canned peaches should be packed in juice rather than syrup for a healthier option. Just remember that fresh peaches offer more flavor and better texture, enhancing the overall taste of your Peaches and Cream Bars.
What variations can I try with Peaches and Cream Bars?
There are many delicious variations you can explore with Peaches and Cream Bars. For instance, you could add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. Swapping out peaches for other fruits like strawberries or blueberries can create exciting new flavors while maintaining the creamy filling base. You might also consider adding nuts or granola for extra crunch, providing a delightful twist on this classic dessert.
Conclusion for Peaches and Cream Bars:
In summary, Peaches and Cream Bars are a delicious dessert that combines the sweetness of fresh peaches with a creamy filling on a buttery crust. They are easy to make, perfect for various occasions, and can be customized with different fruits or spices to suit your taste preferences. Whether served at parties or enjoyed at home, these bars bring joy with every bite. Make sure to store them properly to enjoy their delightful flavors longer! For more inspiration, check out this pecan pie bars recipe recipe.
Peaches and Cream Bars
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 9 servings 1x
Description
Peaches and Cream Bars are the ultimate summer dessert, harmonizing the sweet juiciness of fresh peaches with a rich, creamy filling atop a buttery crust. Each bite evokes nostalgia and sunshine, making these bars a delightful addition to picnics, potlucks, or simply as a satisfying treat at home. Easy to prepare, they’re perfect for bakers of all skill levels and are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh peaches, diced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Toss diced peaches with 1/4 cup of sugar in a medium bowl; set aside.
- In another bowl, cream together remaining sugar and softened butter until light. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in flour and baking powder until just combined.
- Whip heavy cream until soft peaks form; gently fold into the batter.
- Spread half of the batter into the prepared baking dish, layer with peaches, then dollop remaining batter on top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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