Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars (with Peach Jam)

Indulge your senses with the delightful combination of sweet, juicy peaches and rich, creamy goodness in these Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars. Perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat, this delectable dessert features layers of buttery crumble, luscious peach jam, and a velvety cream filling that melts in your mouth.

As you take your first bite into this peach crumble bars recipe, the harmonious blend of textures and flavors will transport you to a sun-kissed orchard, making it impossible to resist returning for another slice. Join me as we dive into today’s recipe to create this mouthwatering delight that will impress everyone at your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavour Combination: The juicy sweetness of ripe peaches paired with the creamy filling creates a perfect balance of refreshing and indulgent flavors.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these crumble bars are perfect for bakers of all skill levels. They allow you to whip up a delightful dessert in no time.
• Versatile Dessert: This recipe is great for summer gatherings and can be enjoyed year-round. Swap out peaches for other fruits to suit seasonal availability and personal taste.
• Make Ahead Friendly: These bars can be prepared beforehand, allowing for stress-free entertaining. Just bake, chill, and slice when ready to serve, ensuring a delicious treat anytime.

Ingredients

• Sugar: Sugar is essential for balancing the acidity of the peaches and enhancing the overall sweetness of the bars. Consider using granulated sugar for a classic taste, or try substituting some with brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
• All-purpose flour: This versatile flour is the foundation for the crumble base and the creamy filling. It provides structure and a light texture, making it ideal for baking.
• Baking powder: A crucial leavening agent, baking powder helps the crumble rise and attain a light, airy consistency. Ensure it’s fresh for the best results, as expired baking powder can impact the texture of your bars.
• Salt: Just a pinch of salt enhances all the flavors in your dessert, balancing the sweetness and bringing out the peaches’ natural taste. Opt for fine sea salt for an even distribution.
• Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness and depth to the crumble. Use it at room temperature for easy mixing and to achieve a perfectly creamy consistency in your filling.
• Cream cheese: This ingredient introduces a thick, creamy texture to the filling, contributing a slight tanginess that complements the peaches’ sweetness. Opt for full-fat cream cheese for a richer experience.
• Sour cream: Sour cream adds moisture and an extra layer of tang, making the filling luscious and smooth. Look for full-fat sour cream for your dessert’s best flavor and texture.
• Pure vanilla extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract infuses the bars with warmth and sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Always choose pure vanilla over imitation for the best taste.
• Large egg: The egg acts as a binder, holding the filling together while providing a richer flavor. Use large eggs for consistency, as they yield the right amount of moisture needed.
• Peach jam: This sweet and fruity layer ties the entire dessert together, delivering concentrated peach flavor. Choose high-quality peach jam or homemade for the freshest taste.

Substitutions and Additions

• Sugar: For a healthier alternative, consider using honey or maple syrup as a sweetener. Adjust the quantity to taste, as these natural sugars can be sweeter than granulated sugar.
• All-purpose flour: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, substitute with almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to achieve similar results without gluten.
• Butter: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free substitute for butter, offering a subtle coconut flavor while maintaining a rich texture.
• Cream cheese: For a dairy-free option, use a cashew cream or vegan cream cheese, which can provide a similar creamy consistency with a mild flavor.
• Sour cream: Greek yogurt makes an excellent replacement, adding tanginess and moisture while boosting protein content.
• Pure vanilla extract: You can experiment with almond or coconut extracts for a unique twist on the traditional vanilla flavor.
• Peach jam: Try replacing it with other fruit jams or preserves, such as apricot or raspberry, to create different flavor profiles that are also delightful. 
• Additions: For added crunch and nuttiness, incorporate a handful of chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, into the crumble layer. For a little freshness, add a sprinkle of lemon or lime zest to the cream filling or jam for a bright burst of citrus.

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix 1/2 cup of sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
3. Add the melted butter and mix until a crumbly dough begins to form.
4. Press two-thirds of the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, vanilla, egg, and the remaining sugar, whisking them together until smooth.
6. Pour the mixture over the crumble base, then evenly spread the peach jam over the cream cheese layer.
7. Sprinkle the reserved crumble topping over the peach jam and place it in the oven. Bake until lightly golden and puffed, about 35-40 minutes.
8. Let it cool completely before slicing the peach bars and serving.

Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh Peaches: During peach season, opt for fresh peaches instead of canned peaches for a juicier and more vibrant flavor.
• Chill the Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is well softened to room temperature before mixing for a smoother filling without lumps.
• Test for Doneness: To check if the bars are done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or have a few moist crumbs attached.
• Serve with Whipped Cream: For an extra indulgent treat, top the bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream when serving.
• Store Properly: Any leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage.
• Enhance Flavour: For an aromatic twist that pairs beautifully with peaches, the best way is to add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble mixture.

Serving Suggestions

These fresh peach crumb bars are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a variety of accompaniments:

• Whipped Cream: A generous dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that complements the richness of the bars.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: For a classic combination, serve warm bars with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, creating a delicious contrast of temperatures.
• Coconut Whipped Cream: For a dairy-free option with a tropical twist, try topping the bars with coconut whipped cream.
• Fresh Mint: A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves on top adds a pop of color and imparts a refreshing flavor to each bite.
• Drizzle of Caramel or Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel or chocolate sauce over the bars can elevate the dessert, infusing sweetness and richness.
• Berries: Serve with a side of fresh berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, to add a burst of tartness that balances the sweetness of the crumble. 
• Coffee or Tea: Pair the bars with a lovely cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat or dessert.

Storage & Reheating

To store the peach crumble bars, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 5 days. For longer storage, these bars can be frozen; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing taste or texture.

Recipe FAQ

Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh ones?  

Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just ensure they are fully thawed and drained of excess moisture before using to prevent the filling from becoming watery.

What can I substitute for egg in this recipe?  

You can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce for an egg substitute, which will help bind the ingredients together without compromising texture.

How do I prevent the crumble from becoming too soggy?  

To avoid a soggy crumble, bake the bars until they are lightly golden on top, and avoid adding too much jam. It’s also helpful to let the bars cool completely before slicing.

Can I make this recipe vegan?  

Absolutely! Use a plant-based butter substitute or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative, and swap the egg for a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, allowed to sit until thickened) for a completely vegan version.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the peach crumble bars?  

You can easily modify the sweetness by reducing the amount of sugar in both the crumble and cream cheese layers according to your preference. Tasting the cream cheese mixture before baking can help guide you.