Peach Crumble Bars
Delightful Peach Crumble Bars featuring a balance of sweet and tart flavors, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the crust and topping
- 3 cups all-purpose flour Structural base for the bars
- 1 cup granulated sugar Adds sweetness and moisture
- 1 teaspoon baking powder Provides leavening
- 1/4 teaspoon salt Enhances flavors
- 1 cup unsalted butter Cut into cubes, adds richness and moisture
- 1 whole egg Lightly beaten, binds the mixture
- 1 cup powdered sugar For frosting, adds sweetness and smoothness
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract Used in the frosting, continues the flavor theme
- 1-2 tablespoons milk To reach desired frosting consistency
For the peach filling
- 3 1/2 cups fresh peaches About 4 peaches, cut into cubes, provide fresh flavor and juiciness
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar For sweetness to the fruit layer
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch Thickens the peach mixture
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon Adds warm spice
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg Complements the peach flavor
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice Adds brightness
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract Enhances the fruit flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking dish with parchment paper or a light coat of cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
- Cut the unsalted butter into the dry mixture using a pastry cutter or a fork until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the lightly beaten egg and stir until all ingredients form a cohesive dough.
- Press about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish to form the base layer.
Fruit Filling
- In another bowl, mix the fresh peach cubes with granulated sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and almond extract.
- Spread the peach mixture over the base layer in the baking dish.
Topping and Baking
- Crumble the remaining dough over the peach layer to form a topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the top turns golden brown, approximately 30-40 minutes.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool completely before cutting.
- Whisk together powdered sugar, almond extract, and enough milk to create a smooth frosting. Drizzle over cooled bars.
- Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
These bars can be served warm, as a dessert, or even for breakfast. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months.