Classic Peaches and Cream Bars
These Classic Peaches and Cream Bars. Are an ode to the sweet, juicy bounty of summer. Imagine a tender, buttery crust. That crumbles perfectly in your mouth. Topped with succulent, ripe peaches. That has been lovingly tossed in sugar and spice. A golden oat topping. Adds a delightful crunch. That perfectly balances the softness of the fruit. As you take a bite. The luscious vanilla icing. Ties it all together. Offering a creamy, sweet finish. Whether enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or breakfast treat. These bars bring a slice of summer sunshine. To any day. Making them an irresistible addition. To your recipe collection.
12 Servings
Ingredients
Crust & Topping:
- 1 c 125 grams all-purpose flour, spooned & leveled
- 1/2 c 43 grams old-fashioned whole rolled oats (or quick oats)
- 1/3 c 67 grams packed light or dark brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 10 tbsp 142 grams unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- Optional: 1/2 c 70 grams chopped pecans
Peach Filling:
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 c 100 grams granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp 8 grams all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 medium peaches peeled and chopped (about 1.5 c)
Vanilla Icing:
- 1/2 c 60 grams confectioners’ sugar
- 1 tbsp 15 ml milk
- 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). And line an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. Leaving a bit of overhang on the sides. For easy removal later. Grease the paper lightly.
Make the Crust and Topping:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir well. Add the cold, cubed butter. And use a pastry cutter. Or your fingers. To mix until you have a crumbly texture. Reserve 3/4 c of this mixture for the topping. And mix in the pecans if using.
Prepare the Base:
- Press the remaining mixture firmly. Into the prepared pan. To form an even crust. Bake for about 15 minutes. Until lightly golden. This will help set the crust. Before adding the filling.
Prepare the Peach Filling:
- While the crust is baking. Whisk the egg and granulated sugar together. Until smooth in a separate bowl. Stir in the flour and salt. Then gently fold in the chopped peaches. Ensuring they are evenly coated.
Assemble the Bars:
- Pour the peach mixture evenly over the hot crust. Then sprinkle the reserved oat topping over the peaches.
Bake the Bars:
- Return the pan to the oven. And bake for another 30-32 minutes. Until the top is golden brown and the peach filling is set. The aroma will be irresistible!
Cool and Drizzle:
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan. For about 30 minutes. Before transferring them to the refrigerator. To chill for at least 2 hours. Once chilled. Lift the bars out using the parchment overhang. And cut them into squares.
Prepare the Vanilla Icing:
- Mix confectioners’ sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. In a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle the icing over each bar just before serving. For a sweet finish.
Notes
To make these Classic Peaches and Cream Bars gluten-free. Substitute the all-purpose flour. With a gluten-free flour blend. Ensuring it’s one designed for 1:1 replacement. Additionally, confirm your oats are certified gluten-free. To avoid any cross-contamination issues. You’ll be amazed at how these simple changes. Preserve the bars’ delicious texture and flavor. Making them perfect. For those with gluten sensitivities. The buttery crust remains flaky. And the juicy peach filling. Maintains its delightful charm. Ensuring everyone can enjoy this summer treat. Without compromising on taste.