Let me share my favorite summer dessert these peach pie bars are absolutely heavenly. I love how they combine a buttery shortbread crust with creamy filling and sweet juicy peaches. Top them with some vanilla ice cream and you've got pure dessert magic happening.
What Makes These Extra Special
These bars give you all the delicious flavors of peach pie but they're so much easier to make and serve. The layers of buttery crust creamy filling and fresh peaches create the perfect bite every time. They've become my go to dessert for everything from backyard BBQs to cozy family dinners.
Everything You'll Need
- Butter: Make sure it's unsalted and softened just right.
- Sugar: Regular granulated for the perfect sweetness.
- Salt: Just a pinch brings out all the flavors.
- Eggs: These make everything rich and wonderful.
- Extracts: A splash of lemon and vanilla make magic.
- Flour: Regular all purpose works great.
- Cream Cheese: Let it soften on your counter.
- Powdered Sugar: Makes the filling extra smooth.
- Peaches: Fresh are amazing but don't worry canned or frozen work too.
- Corn Starch: Helps thicken up that lovely peach topping.
Let's Make Some Magic
- First get your oven nice and warm at 350°F. Line your pan with foil leave some hanging over the sides trust me this helps later.
- Beat your butter sugar and salt until it's light and fluffy. Add those eggs one at a time then your extracts.
- Spread most of that mixture in your pan and give it a quick 15 minute bake.
- While that's happening mix up your cream cheese filling until it's silky smooth.
- Toss those peaches with sugar and cornstarch then layer everything up.
- Drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough on top like little clouds.
- Pop it back in the oven until golden and gorgeous about 35 minutes.
My Best Tips
- Use the ripest peaches you can find they make all the difference.
- Don't skip prebaking that crust it keeps everything from getting soggy.
- The foil liner is your friend makes cleanup so much easier.
- Let everything cool completely before cutting trust me on this one.
All About That Crust
My buttery shortbread crust is what makes these bars special. Sometimes I'll use graham crackers for something different but that buttery base is hard to beat.
Making Them Extra Special
I love serving these warm with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream. Sometimes I'll add fresh berries on the side or drizzle some caramel sauce over the top just heavenly.
Keeping Them Fresh
These keep beautifully in the fridge for about 4 days. Pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up. You can even freeze them for later just wrap them well.
Mix It Up
- Try mixing in some blueberries with the peaches.
- Add chopped pecans to the crust for extra crunch.
- A sprinkle of cinnamon makes everything cozy.
- Sometimes I add a sweet glaze on top.
Getting Ahead
You can prep most of this the day before. Make your crust and filling then just add those peaches right before baking. Makes entertaining so much easier.
Watch Out For These
- Always prebake that crust it makes such a difference.
- Drain those peaches really well nobody likes soggy bars.
- Be patient let them cool completely before cutting.
Perfect Any Time
These bars work for any occasion. They're fancy enough for special gatherings but easy enough for a weeknight treat. That's why I love them so much.
Making Them Gluten Free
My gluten free friends love these made with their favorite flour blend. Just make sure all your ingredients are certified gluten free.
A Lighter Version
Sometimes I lighten these up using applesauce and low fat cream cheese. Still delicious just a bit better for you.
Using Frozen Peaches
When fresh peaches aren't in season frozen ones work great. Just thaw and drain them really well pat them dry with paper towels.
Extra Special Touches
A tiny splash of almond extract makes the peach flavor pop. Sometimes I add coconut or crushed pineapple for a tropical twist.
Fun With The Kids
My little ones love helping make these. They're great at layering peaches and sprinkling the topping. Such a fun kitchen project together.
That Perfect Bite
Each layer brings something special buttery crust creamy filling and those sweet juicy peaches. It's like a perfect little dessert symphony.
Always a Hit
I've never brought these to a gathering without getting asked for the recipe. They're just one of those desserts that makes everyone happy.
Simply Delicious
These peach pie bars have become such a special part of my recipe collection. They're simple to make but taste like you spent hours in the kitchen. Perfect for sharing with people you love.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen or canned peaches?
Yes, fresh, frozen, or canned peaches all work well in this recipe. Just make sure to drain canned peaches and reserve some juice for the recipe.
- → Why line the pan with foil?
The foil overhang helps lift the entire dessert out of the pan easily once cooled, making it simple to cut into neat bars.
- → Why prebake the bottom crust?
Prebaking ensures the bottom crust is fully cooked and prevents it from becoming soggy from the cream cheese and peach layers.
- → Can I make these ahead?
Yes, these bars can be made a day ahead. Store in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.
- → Why use cornstarch with the peaches?
Cornstarch helps thicken the peach juices, preventing them from making the bars soggy and ensuring clean slices.