Peachy Keen Bars Recipe

There's something undeniably delightful about the sweet and juicy flavor of peaches, especially when they're baked into a scrumptious dessert. Peachy Keen Bars are a perfect treat that captures the essence of summer in every bite. These bars are not only delicious but also easy to make, combining a buttery crust with a luscious peach filling and a crumbly topping. Whether you're hosting a summer picnic, a family gathering, or just craving something sweet, Peachy Keen Bars are sure to impress. Let's explore how to create these delectable bars that are as delightful to look at as they are to eat.

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Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

For the Peach Filling:

• 4 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced (about 4-5 medium peaches)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Crumble Topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars.

Step 2: Make the Crust

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
4. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until it starts to turn golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Peach Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced peaches, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon.
2. Gently toss to coat the peaches evenly. Set aside.

Step 4: Make the Crumble Topping

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake the Bars

1. Spread the peach filling evenly over the partially baked crust.
2. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the peach filling.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the peach filling is bubbly.
4. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Cooking Note

• Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches work best for this recipe, but if fresh peaches are not available, you can use frozen peaches. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
• Butter: Cold butter is crucial for achieving the right texture in both the crust and the crumble topping.

Serving Suggestions

• A La Mode: Serve Peachy Keen Bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• Garnish: Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar over the top before serving for a touch of elegance.
• Beverages: Pair these bars with a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of iced tea.

Tips

• Cutting the Bars: Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to ensure neat slices.
• Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
• Freezing: These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 16 servings):

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 3g
• Sodium: 100mg

Conclusion

Peachy Keen Bars are a delightful way to enjoy the sweet and juicy flavor of peaches in a simple yet elegant dessert. With their buttery crust, flavorful peach filling, and crumbly topping, these bars are perfect for any occasion. Whether you're serving them at a summer party or enjoying them as a weeknight dessert, they are sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and experience the delicious taste of Peachy Keen Bars for yourself. Enjoy every bite of this fruity, buttery, and perfectly sweet treat!

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