Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious dessert that captures the essence of summer, look no further than Cinnamon Peach Crumble Bars. These bars are the perfect combination of sweet and spicy, bringing together juicy peaches with a buttery crumble topping. Easy to make and even easier to devour, they’re ideal for picnics, potlucks, or just enjoying at home on a cozy afternoon.
Imagine biting into layers of soft peach filling enveloped in a crumbly crust—it’s pure bliss! With every bite, you’ll experience the warmth of cinnamon mingling perfectly with ripe peaches. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through creating these delightful treats effortlessly. Let’s dive into how to whip up your own batch of Cinnamon Peach Crumble Bars!
Ingredients needed for the crust
To create the perfect base for your Cinnamon Peach Crumble Bars, you’ll need a few simple ingredients.
| Crust & Topping | Filling |
|---|
| 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour | 4 ripe peaches (sliced) |
| 1 cup rolled oats | ½ cup granulated sugar |
| ¾ cup brown sugar | ¼ cup brown sugar |
| ¾ cup unsalted butter (cold) | 1 tbsp lemon juice |
| 1 tsp ground cinnamon | 1 tsp ground cinnamon |
| ¼ tsp salt | 2 tbsp cornstarch |
Start with all-purpose flour, which provides that essential structure. Adding rolled oats gives the crust a chewy texture and delightful nuttiness.
Brown sugar is key for sweetness and adds a hint of caramel flavor. You can’t forget unsalted butter; it makes everything rich and buttery while binding the mixture together perfectly.
A pinch of salt enhances overall flavor, balancing the sweetness beautifully. Some ground cinnamon brings warmth to your crust, harmonizing with the peach filling later on.
Gather these ingredients before you begin. Each one plays an important role in crafting those delicious layers!
Step-by-step instructions for making the crust
RELATED: Pineapple Coconut God Bless American Cake Recipe
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a mixing bowl and combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. These ingredients form the backbone of your crust.
Next, cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork. Work until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture.
Now it’s time to add oats into the mix for extra crunch. Stir well until everything is combined evenly.
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later on. Press about two-thirds of the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Bake it in your preheated oven for around 10 minutes until lightly golden before adding any filling! This initial bake sets up a delicious base full of flavor and texture.
Ingredients needed for the filling
For the filling of your Cinnamon Peach Crumble Bars, you’ll need fresh peaches as the star ingredient. Choose ripe, juicy ones for that sweet flavor and vibrant color.
Next up is granulated sugar. This helps to enhance the natural sweetness of the peaches and balances out any tartness.
Don’t forget about brown sugar; it adds a lovely depth with its rich molasses notes. A dash of ground cinnamon will infuse warmth into every bite.
You’ll also want some cornstarch or flour to thicken the mixture, ensuring it holds together nicely in those bars. A touch of lemon juice brightens everything up while providing a subtle tang.
Consider adding vanilla extract for extra fragrance and complexity in flavor. With these ingredients combined, you’ll create a deliciously fruity filling that perfectly complements your crumble topping!
Step-by-step instructions for making the filling
Start by washing and slicing your peaches. Aim for about four ripe peaches, as they offer the best flavor. Remove the pits and cut them into thin wedges.
In a medium bowl, combine the sliced peaches with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. The sugar will draw out the natural juices of the fruit while adding sweetness.
Mix gently to coat all peach slices evenly. Let this sit for about 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Next, sprinkle in some cornstarch. This helps thicken the filling while baking so it’s not runny.
Stir everything together one last time until well combined. Your mixture should be slightly syrupy but not overly juicy at this point.
Now you’re ready to layer this luscious filling over your crust!
Putting it all together: assembling and baking the bars
Now that you have your crust and filling ready, it’s time to bring everything together. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Take the crust mixture and evenly press half of it into a greased baking dish. This will form a solid base for your delicious layers. Next, spread the peach filling over the pressed crust, ensuring an even layer.
Crumble the remaining dough over the top of the peaches. It should look rustic—don’t worry about perfection here! The more uneven, the more homemade charm it adds.
Once assembled, pop those bars into your preheated oven and let them bake for about 30-35 minutes or until they’re golden brown on top. Your kitchen will soon be filled with a heavenly aroma that’s hard to resist!
Serving suggestions and variations on the recipe
These Cinnamon Peach Crumble Bars are versatile and can be dressed up or down. For a delightful twist, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The creamy texture pairs beautifully with the fruity filling.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a handful of blueberries or raspberries to the peach filling for an extra burst of flavor. This combination not only enhances taste but also adds vibrant color.
For those who enjoy nuts, sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts into the crumble topping. The crunch brings another layer of texture that elevates each bite.
Drizzle caramel sauce over the bars right before serving for a decadent finish. It’s perfect for impressing guests during gatherings or simply treating yourself after dinner.
Don’t forget about breakfast! These bars make an excellent addition to your morning coffee routine—delicious and satisfying any time of day.
RELATED: Mini Brown Butter Peach Tarts Recipe
Conclusion
Cinnamon Peach Crumble Bars are a delightful treat that brings together the sweetness of peaches and the warm spice of cinnamon. With layers of buttery crust and crumbly topping, they make for a perfect dessert or snack at any time.
By following this simple recipe, you can create these delicious bars right in your kitchen. The combination of fresh ingredients ensures each bite is bursting with flavor. Plus, there’s plenty of room to get creative with variations.
Whether you’re serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoying them cold as an afternoon pick-me-up, Cinnamon Peach Crumble Bars are sure to be a hit among family and friends. Happy baking!