Are you ready for a delicious summer treat? These scrumptious peach bars with vanilla glaze are perfect for warm, sunny days. They combine fresh peaches with a sweet vanilla glaze. This makes them an irresistible dessert for your collection.
With 20 bars to make and an average rating of 5 out of 5 stars from 359 votes, you know it’s a hit. These bars are not only tasty but also fit healthy eating by using seasonal fruits. Get ready for a fun time in your kitchen!
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
4 large ripe peaches, peeled and sliced
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Press two-thirds of the crumb mixture into the prepared baking dish to form an even layer.
Set aside the remaining third of the mixture.
Arrange the peach slices evenly over the crust in the baking dish.
Sprinkle the cornstarch and brown sugar over the peaches, and drizzle with vanilla extract.
Crumble the remaining crumb mixture over the peach layer.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the peaches are bubbling.
While the bars are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create the glaze.
Once the bars have cooled, drizzle the vanilla glaze over the top.
Cut into squares and serve.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
Key Takeaways
- Yield: 20 scrumptious peach bars
- Prep time: 30 minutes; Cook time: 55 minutes
- Average rating: 5 out of 5 stars
- Calories per serving: 263 kcal
- Incorporates fresh peaches for enhanced flavor and health benefits
Introduction to Peach Bars
Peach bars are a sweet and buttery delight perfect for summer. They’re great for parties or family gatherings. The mix of ripe peaches, crunchy topping, and sweetness is loved by all.
These bars are versatile. You can use fresh peaches in season or canned ones for convenience. This means you can enjoy them all year. The recipe is simple, so you won’t spend too much time making them. You’ll get about 15 bars, ideal for sharing.
You can serve peach bars warm or cold, fitting any event. They stay fresh in the fridge for up to five days. If you want to freeze them, they keep for three months. Just reheat in the oven or microwave to enjoy their taste again.
The recipe lets you try different fruits for a twist. You can use apricots, nectarines, or berries instead of peaches. This keeps the recipe interesting. Just keep the fruit amount the same for the best flavor and texture.
Soon, you’ll see why peach bars are a favorite summer dessert. Their mix of flavors and textures makes them a hit.
Why Choose Peach for Your Desserts?
Choosing peaches for your desserts takes your dishes to the next level. The sweet and juicy peach flavor brings a unique twist to bars, crumbles, and cakes. These fruits not only taste great but also bring fruit dessert benefits.
Peaches are packed with vitamins A and C, which are good for your health. They also have dietary fiber that helps with digestion. Adding peaches to your baking makes your desserts tastier and healthier.
Preparing these peach bars is quick, taking only 50 minutes to start. After an hour of cooking, you’ll have 15 servings of delicious bars. Each bar has about 252 calories, making them perfect for both treats and health-conscious eating.
Using peaches adds a rich flavor and supports a healthy diet. This makes your baking not just tasty but also good for you.
| Nutritional Component | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 252 kcal |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 50.9g |
| Fiber | 2.4g |
| Sugar | 35.8g |
| Protein | 2.8g |
Key Ingredients for Scrumptious Peach Bars with Vanilla Glaze
Choosing the right ingredients is key to making delicious peach bars. Each one adds flavor and texture to your homemade treats. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Fresh Peaches: You’ll need about 3 ½ cups of cubed ripe peaches. That’s roughly 4 to 5 large peaches for that fresh taste.
- All-Purpose Flour: Use 3 cups for a crust that holds everything together.
- Butter: Add 1 cup or 16.8% of the mix for richness. Then, use 3 tablespoons for the peach filling.
- Sugar: You’ll need 1 cup for the crust and ⅓ cup for the filling. This balances the sweetness.
- Eggs: Use 2 large eggs to bind the ingredients and improve texture.
- Milk: 1 cup of milk keeps the bars moist.
- Neutral Oil: ½ cup of oil helps keep the bars tender.
- Sour Cream: Another ½ cup adds richness and depth.
- Baking Powder and Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon of baking powder and ½ teaspoon of baking soda make the bars rise well.
- Spices: Spices like cinnamon and nutmeg enhance the flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: Use 2 teaspoons for the cake and icing.
- Powdered Sugar: ¾ cup is perfect for the glaze.
With these ingredients, you’ll make a treat that’s great for sharing or enjoying by yourself. Quality and freshness will take your peach dessert to the next level.
| Ingredient | Amount Needed |
|---|---|
| Fresh Peaches | 3 ½ cups (about 4-5 peaches) |
| All-Purpose Flour | 3 cups |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 cup (for crust) + ⅓ cup (for filling) |
| Butter | 1 cup + 3 tablespoons for filling |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Neutral Oil | ½ cup |
| Sour Cream | ½ cup |
| Baking Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking Soda | ½ teaspoon |
| Spices | To taste (cinnamon, nutmeg) |
| Vanilla Extract | 2 teaspoons |
| Powdered Sugar | ¾ cup (for glaze) |
Preparing the Peaches for Your Bars
Getting your peaches ready is key to a great dessert. Pick ripe peaches that are soft to the touch and smell sweet. You’ll need about 5 peaches, which will become 4 cups of fruit after prep.
To peel peaches easily, blanch them. Put the peaches in boiling water for 2 minutes, then move them to an ice bath. This way, the skin comes off without a fight. After peeling, slice and pit the peaches. Make sure the pieces are the same size for your dessert.
Here’s a helpful table summarizing the peach preparation process:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Select ripe peaches that yield to pressure. |
| 2 | Prepare boiling water and an ice bath. |
| 3 | Blanch each peach for 2 minutes. |
| 4 | Transfer to ice bath for immediate cooling. |
| 5 | Peel, pit, and chop into chunks. |
| 6 | Ensure you have 4 full cups of prepared peaches. |
By following these steps, your peach bars will be full of flavor and just right. Enjoy using fresh peaches in your recipe for a summer treat!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Easy Peach Bars
Making easy peach bars is a fun and rewarding process. Just follow these simple steps to create delicious peach bars with a tasty vanilla glaze. This guide has everything you need to get started.
- Prepare the Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine ¾ cup flour, ¼ cup powdered sugar, and a dash of salt.
- Add 6 tablespoons of cold, cut butter to the mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9 x 13-inch pan to form the crust.
- Prepare the Peach Filling:
- Slice 6 to 8 large peaches, keeping the skins on for added flavor and nutrition.
- In a separate bowl, mix 2 cups of fresh peach slices, ¼ cup peach preserves, 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice, 2 tablespoons flour, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, and ¼ teaspoon cinnamon.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Spread the peach filling evenly over the crust.
- Prepare the topping by combining 4 tablespoons of cold, cut butter, ½ cup flour, and ½ cup packed brown sugar until crumbly. Sprinkle this mixture over the peach layer.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375ºF for 25-30 minutes. The bars are ready when the fruit is bubbly and the topping is golden.
- Check for Doneness:
- Use a toothpick to insert into the crust. If it comes out clean, your bars are ready!
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your delicious easy peach bars!
These easy peach bars are perfect for gatherings and can also be doubled and baked in a larger 18×26″ cookie sheet pan. This recipe yields about 16 servings with an estimated 161 calories per serving. Enjoy baking!
Creating the Perfect Vanilla Glaze Recipe
The vanilla glaze is the perfect finishing touch for your delicious peach bars. This simple yet tasty vanilla glaze recipe boosts the flavor and makes your dessert look amazing. Just follow these steps to make the icing for peach bars that everyone will love.
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1 1/3 cups (300g) berry puree
-
3 tablespoons (45g) water
-
2 envelopes (1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons, 15g) unflavored gelatin
-
1/2 cup (113g) heavy cream or coconut milk
-
1 1/3 cups plus 2 teaspoons (270g) granulated sugar
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2 tablespoons (39g) light corn syrup
Start by making the berry puree. Use 20 ounces (570g) of fresh or frozen unsweetened berries with 1/4 cup (50g) of sugar. Blend until smooth, then strain if needed. Heat it until it boils at about 215°F.
Let the mixture cool a bit before measuring. It should be around 90°F for the best consistency. Mix in the unflavored gelatin with the warm puree until it’s fully dissolved.
In another bowl, mix the heavy cream (or coconut milk), sugar, and corn syrup. Stir until everything is well combined. Then, slowly add the berry puree mixture, whisking constantly for a smooth consistency.
For the best glaze, let it cool to 85°F to 88°F before applying. This ensures the glaze flows well over your peach bars. If it’s too thick, a quick reheat will fix it, making it easier to work with.
When your glaze is ready, pour it over the cooled peach bars. Let them sit at room temperature for two to three hours before serving. Or, refrigerate them overnight for the glaze to set perfectly.
If you have leftover glaze, store it in the fridge for up to two weeks or freeze for a month. Just reheat it until smooth before glazing your next batch. Enjoy the rich flavor and beautiful look of your homemade vanilla glaze with peach bars.
Tips for Baking with Peaches
When baking with peaches, picking the right ripeness is key. Choose peaches that are slightly soft but not too soft. This ensures they taste great and stay moist.
Adjust your baking time based on how juicy the peaches are. Juicier peaches might need more time to bake. To prevent a soggy crust, sprinkle flour on the peach slices before adding them to the batter.
Using peach baking tips can make your dish even better. For example, adding lemon juice to the peach filling brightens the taste and prevents browning. If you’re freezing your baked goods, wrap them in waxed paper and plastic tightly.
Remember, peach squares should be about 2 x 2 ½ inches in size. Use an 8 x 8 inch pan to bake them. This size makes them perfect for dessert servings and looks great too. Enjoy baking!
Serving Suggestions for Your Peach Dessert Recipe
How you present your peach bars can make them more appealing and tasty. Aim for a presentation that makes the dessert experience special for your guests. Here are some creative ways to serve your peach bars:
- Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream goes well with warm peach bars. It adds a nice contrast in temperature and texture.
- Whipped Cream Topping: Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. This topping lightens the richness of the bars.
- Fresh Mint Garnish: Sprinkle mint leaves on top for color and a refreshing flavor. It brings out the peach’s fragrance.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle slivered almonds on top for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. It goes well with the sweet peaches.
- Drizzle with Almond Icing: A light drizzle of almond icing adds a sweet finish. It complements the fruitiness of the bars.
Think about serving the bars on a bright plate, arranged with care. A thoughtful presentation can turn a simple dessert into a centerpiece for any event. These tips will make your peach bars both tasty and pretty.
Storing and Reheating Your Homemade Peach Bars
Storing peach bars right keeps them fresh and tasty. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for four to five days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap or foil, then put them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to a month.
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When you want to enjoy your peach bars again, follow the right reheating steps. For a quick option, microwave them with the cut side up for 30 seconds. For even heating, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for 10 minutes. This way, they’ll taste like they’re fresh out of the oven.
Using these tips makes it easy to enjoy your peach bars, whether they’re fresh or warmed up. A bit of care keeps their quality high.
Variations on Peach Bars with Icing
Exploring peach bar variations opens up a world of creativity for your baking. Many people love to add new flavors and textures. This makes these treats even more appealing.
You can mix in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for more taste. These fruits add a burst of flavor and color. They turn traditional peach bars into a more vibrant dessert.
Trying different crust types is another fun option. You could go for a crumbly shortbread crust or a nut-based crust for a crunchy texture. These changes can make a simple recipe stand out, pleasing a wide range of tastes.
Flavors of icing can also be changed to match occasions or personal tastes. For example, a lemon glaze adds a refreshing twist, while rich chocolate icing pairs well with peaches. These combos make your dessert a hit with everyone.
Looking at alternative fruit dessert recipes can inspire you to try new things. You might find a treasure trove of flavors and textures to play with. Here’s a table with some popular peach bar variations to spark your creativity:
| Variation | Key Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Blueberry Peach Bars | Fresh blueberries, peaches, oatmeal crust | Sweet and tart |
| Raspberry Peach Dream Bars | Raspberry puree, peach slices, buttery crust | Fruity and creamy |
| Almond Coconut Bars | Refrigerated crescent roll dough, coconut flakes | Rich and nutty |
| Tropical Magic Bars | Macadamia nuts, dried pineapple, coconut milk | Tropical and satisfying |
| Pecan Strawberry Rhubarb Bars | Pecan shortbread crust, strawberry rhubarb jam | Sweet-tart and crunchy |
With these ideas, your peach bars can be a versatile dessert for many tastes. Embrace the art of baking and try these mixes for a delightful experience. Your family and friends will love them.
Health Benefits of Using Fresh Fruit in Desserts
Adding fresh fruit like peaches to your desserts boosts flavor and health. Fresh fruit desserts offer vitamins and fiber that help you stay well. They let you enjoy sweets without the usual guilt.
Here are some key health benefits of desserts with fresh fruit:
| Recipe Type | Percentage or Count |
|---|---|
| Recipes using fresh peaches | 100% |
| Recipes with a crumble element | 16.67% (3 out of 18) |
| Desserts that double as breakfast | 22.22% (4 out of 18) |
| Recipes requiring minimal preparation | 27.78% |
| Healthy dessert options | 27.78% (5 out of 18) |
| Recipes suitable for summer events | 38.89% (7 out of 18) |
| Recipes using store-bought ingredients | 33.33% (6 out of 18) |
| Gluten-free and/or nut-free recipes | 11.11% (2 out of 18) |
| Recipes suitable for various events | 33.33% (6 out of 18) |
| Frozen dessert recipes | 11.11% (2 out of 18) |
Try making a Peach, Mango, and Papaya Salsa or a smoothie with nonfat Greek yogurt and berries. These are great ways to enjoy fruit’s health perks. Grilled fruit desserts also offer a tasty treat by caramelizing the sugars naturally.
By picking recipes that focus on fresh fruit, you can make healthy desserts that taste great. This way, you can enjoy sweets without feeling guilty.
Fruity Dessert Bars: Exploring More Recipes
Fruity dessert bars are a treat for your taste buds, offering vibrant flavors and textures. Peach bars are a hit, but there are many other recipes to try. You can explore by making berry crumble bars, zesty lemon bars, or classic apple bars. Each recipe adds a unique twist to these tasty treats.
Berry crumble bars are a standout with their mix of sweet and tart flavors. Lemon bars offer a refreshing taste with their tangy citrus. Apple bars bring back memories of homemade pies. These options let you find the perfect dessert for any event.
Let’s look at the ingredients in different fruity dessert bars:
| Recipe | Featured Fruit | Notable Ingredients | Unique Flavor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Berry Crumble Bars | Mixed Berries | Oats, Brown Sugar, Butter | Sweet and Tart |
| Lemon Bars | Lemon | Granulated Sugar, Eggs, Flour | Tangy Citrus |
| Apple Bars | Apples | Cinnamon, Nuts, Brown Sugar | Warm Spice |
| Mango Bars | Mango | Honey, Coconut, Lime | Tropical Sweetness |
| Date Bars | Dates | Oats, Almonds, Honey | Natural Sweetness |
Exploring dessert recipes can lead you to try cranberries, nuts, or tropical fruits like mango and Key lime. With so many fruity dessert bars to choose from, there’s something for everyone. Try a new recipe today and surprise your loved ones with these tasty treats!
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Delicious Summer Dessert Ideas
Summer is the perfect time to try out new desserts with fresh fruits. It’s exciting to make refreshing fruit desserts. These treats are tasty and use the best of the season.
- Strawberry shortcake – Fluffy biscuits layered with sweet strawberries and whipped cream.
- Watermelon salad – A vibrant dish featuring cubed watermelon, mint, and a drizzle of lime juice.
- Tropical fruit tarts – Crisp pastry filled with creamy custard, topped with an array of tropical fruits.
- Peach cobbler – Warm peaches, sweetened and topped with a buttery crust, perfect alongside vanilla ice cream.
- Berry parfaits – Layers of yogurt, crunchy granola, and a mix of berries for a healthy yet indulgent dessert.
Out of twenty summer dessert recipes, about 35% focus on fruit-based desserts. These include amazing options with fresh peaches, strawberries, blueberries, and more. Homemade ice cream desserts, making up 15% of the recipes, go great with these fruits, adding extra coolness.
For parties, think about no-bake desserts, which are 20% of the list. These let you get creative without needing an oven, like chilled cheesecake or fruit salads. Using seasonal fruits, like fresh peaches, makes your desserts taste better and look great.
Enjoy these summer dessert ideas to wow your family and friends. They’re sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. The best part is, these desserts make summer special, creating memories with every bite.
Recommended Pairings for Your Peach Dessert
Adding the right pairings to your peach dessert can make your meal even better. After making delicious peach bars, think about what drinks and snacks go well with them. These choices can make your dessert taste amazing.
Sweet wines are a great match for peach desserts. A light Moscato or a fruity Riesling can add a refreshing touch. For those who prefer not to drink alcohol, try iced tea with peach or herbal flavors. It’s a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the peaches.
If you like coffee, a medium roast goes well with peach bars, especially when it’s a bit warm. The rich flavors in coffee balance the dessert’s sweetness. This makes each bite even more enjoyable.
Here are more dessert pairings you can try:
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a creamy texture.
- Nut-based toppings such as toasted almonds or pecans to add crunch.
- Fruit coulis, like raspberry or blueberry, to introduce a tart element.
Why not host a dessert tasting where guests can try different pairings with the peach bars? This lets everyone explore different flavors and find their top choices.
| Beverage | Description | Why It Pairs Well |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet Moscato | A light, sparkling wine with fruity undertones. | Compliments the sweetness of the peaches. |
| Iced Peach Tea | A refreshing tea with fruity, floral notes. | Enhances and mirrors the peach flavor. |
| Medium Roast Coffee | Rich and smooth coffee with balanced acidity. | Offers a hearty balance to the dessert’s sweetness. |
| Vanilla Ice Cream | Creamy and sweet frozen treat. | Adds richness and complements peach flavors. |
| Raspberry Coulis | Sweet and tart fruit sauce. | Introduces a contrasting flavor profile. |
Conclusion
In this peach dessert recipe recap, you’ve learned how easy it is to make delicious peach bars with a tasty vanilla glaze. This recipe highlights the natural sweetness of fresh peaches. It also shows how versatile this summer treat can be.
By following simple steps, you can bake and enjoy these tasty bars. They’re sure to impress your friends and family.
Your peach dessert journey doesn’t end here. You can try a Northern style peach cobbler with a biscuit crust or the Southern favorite with a moist batter. The community’s positive feedback and unique variations like Just Too Easy Peach Cobbler will inspire your next bake. Summer is the perfect time to enjoy these peachy delights!
Embrace the joy of baking with peaches this season. Try out personal favorites like Peach Crumb Bars or Paula Deen’s Peach Cobbler. Remember, peach bars are all about easy, flavorful desserts that bring people together. Your kitchen is where you create lasting memories.
FAQ
What are scrumptious peach bars with vanilla glaze?
These peach bars are a sweet summer treat. They mix fresh peaches with a buttery crust and a sweet vanilla glaze. It’s a perfect dessert for any event.
How do I choose the best peaches for my dessert recipe?
Pick ripe peaches that feel slightly soft and smell sweet. Make sure they don’t have bruises or marks for the best taste.
Can I use frozen peaches in my peach bars?
Yes, frozen peaches work too! Just thaw them and drain off any extra liquid to avoid a soggy crust.
How long do homemade peach bars last in the refrigerator?
Your peach bars will stay fresh for 4-5 days in the fridge. Keep them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
What is the best way to store peach bars for longer freshness?
For longer storage, freeze your peach bars. Wrap each bar in plastic wrap and put them in a freezer bag or container for up to three months.
What can I pair with my peach bars for serving?
Serve peach bars with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh mint leaves. They also go well with iced tea or sweet wines.
Are there any healthy benefits to using peaches in desserts?
Yes! Peaches are full of vitamins A and C, fiber, and are low in calories. They make a nutritious addition to your peach bars.
What are some popular variations of peach bars I can try?
Try adding blueberries or raspberries, different crusts, or unique icing flavors. This lets you customize your peach bars for any event.
Is it difficult to make easy peach bars from scratch?
No way! Making peach bars is easy with a simple guide. With quality ingredients and clear steps, anyone can make delicious homemade peach bars with vanilla glaze.