Peaches and Cream Bars: A Delightful Summer Treat

As the warm sun of summer beckons, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a refreshing dessert that captures the essence of the season. One such delightful treat is the Peaches and Cream Bars. These bars encapsulate the juicy sweetness of ripe peaches paired with a smooth, creamy filling, making them an irresistible option for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, enjoying a picnic in the park, or simply treating yourself at home, these bars are sure to please.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create your own batch of Peaches and Cream Bars, gather the following ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Filling:

• 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg

For Topping:

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Additional peach slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mix the Crust Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add in the softened butter and mix until crumbly and well combined.

3. Press into the Pan: Spread the mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, pressing firmly to create a solid crust. Bake for about 10 minutes or until it begins to turn a light golden brown.

Step 2: Make the Filling

4. Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until creamy and smooth. Add the egg and mix until fully incorporated.

5. Layer the Peaches: Once the crust is baked, remove it from the oven and scatter the diced peaches over the surface. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the peaches, spreading it evenly.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

6. Bake Again: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until the filling is set and slightly golden on top.

7. Cool and Slice: Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, slice into squares and, if desired, garnish with extra peach slices and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an added touch.

Serving Suggestions

These Peaches and Cream Bars are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent finish. Serve them chilled from the refrigerator or at room temperature, and watch as they become the star of any gathering.

Conclusion

With their vibrant flavors and creamy textures, Peaches and Cream Bars are the perfect dessert to celebrate summer. Easy to make and packed with fresh, seasonal ingredients, they are sure to impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, turn on your favorite summer playlist, and get ready to savor each delicious bite of this delightful treat! Enjoy!