Delicious Peach Crumb Bars Recipe (Easy Summer Dessert)

Summer always reminds me of long afternoons in Nonna’s sun-drenched kitchen. As a child, I’d watch her sprinkle buttery crumbs over the ripest peaches picked fresh from her tiny garden.
Those memories inspired this Peach Crumb Bars recipe—a sweet, buttery, golden bar bursting with juicy peach flavor and an irresistible crumble topping.

This version brings a little Italian magic to the classic Southern treat by adding hints of lemon zest and a touch of almond for depth—just like Nonna would whisper, “Sempre un pizzico d’amore” (Always a pinch of love). 💛

Why You’ll Love These Peach Crumb Bars

• Bursting with Real Peach Flavor 🍑
• Perfect Summer Dessert for picnics, potlucks, and family gatherings
• Easy Crumble Dough—one dough for crust and topping!
• Italian-inspired Touch with almond and lemon
• Freezer-Friendly for a taste of summer all year long

There’s nothing quite like the golden, buttery crust combined with juicy peaches in these Peach Crumb Bars!

Ingredients for Perfect Peach Crumb Bars

For the Crust & Crumble:

• 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 1 cup (225g) cold unsalted butter, diced

For the Peach Filling:

• 4 cups (about 5 large) fresh peaches, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

How to Make the Best Peach Crumb Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×9-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Crust and Crumb

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest.
2. Add cold butter, vanilla, and almond extract.
3. Blend until the mixture becomes crumbly and moist.
4. Reserve about 1 ½ cups of this crumb mixture for the topping.
5. Press the remaining dough firmly into the prepared pan to form the crust of your Peach Crumb Bars.

Step 3: Prepare the Peach Filling

1. In another bowl, toss diced peaches with lemon juice.
2. Stir in sugar, cornstarch, and cinnamon until evenly coated.

Step 4: Assemble

• Spread the peach mixture evenly over the crust.
• Sprinkle the reserved crumb dough on top.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

• Bake for 45–50 minutes until the top is golden and the peach filling bubbles joyfully.
• Let your Peach Crumb Bars cool completely before slicing.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Peach Crumb Bars

• Fresh is Best: Use fresh, ripe peaches whenever possible.
• Chill Your Butter: Cold butter makes the crust tender and crumbly.
• Lemon Zest Magic: It balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Cool Before Cutting: Patience ensures clean slices of your beautiful Peach Crumb Bars.

FAQs About Peach Crumb Bars

Can I use canned peaches?
Yes! If using canned peaches, drain them well and pat dry. Otherwise, your Peach Crumb Bars might turn soggy.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for delicious gluten-free Peach Crumb Bars.

Do I have to peel the peaches?
Peeling is recommended for smoother filling, but if you love a rustic texture, you can leave the skins on.

Storing and Freezing Peach Crumb Bars

• Refrigerator: Store your Peach Crumb Bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap bars individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.

These Peach Crumb Bars taste just as heavenly after freezing — it’s like saving a slice of summer for later! 🍑

What to Serve with Peach Crumb Bars

• Dust with powdered sugar.
• Add a scoop of homemade vanilla gelato

More Summer Desserts You’ll Love

• Southern Peach Cobbler 🍑
• Easy Strawberry Shortcake 🍓

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