Name: Summer Peach Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup cold butter; 4 large fresh peaches; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Golden summer peach bars with buttery crust and crumbly topping on wooden surface | lonerecipes.com

I first encountered peach bars at a small-town farmers market, where an elderly baker was selling them from her booth. One bite of that buttery, peachy goodness and I was completely hooked. The way the tender fruit filling melded with the crisp, golden crust was pure magic. I knew I had to recreate that experience at home. After several attempts, I perfected this version that captures all the flavors I remember from that first taste. The secret is using perfectly ripe peaches and not over-mixing the streusel topping. These bars represent everything I love about summer baking - simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Every time I make them, I'm transported back to that sunny market day.

Why I love this recipe

What I love most about these peach bars is their versatility and foolproof nature. You can make them with any variety of peaches, and they always turn out beautifully. The recipe is forgiving - if your peaches are extra juicy, just add a bit more cornstarch. If they're not quite sweet enough, increase the sugar slightly. The bars freeze wonderfully, so you can enjoy summer flavors all year long. They're elegant enough for dinner parties but casual enough for everyday treats. Plus, they're much easier than making a traditional peach pie but deliver all the same flavors. The combination of textures - the crisp base, tender fruit, and crumbly topping - makes every bite interesting. They represent the perfect balance of sweet and buttery that makes summer desserts so irresistible.

What You Need From Your Kitchen

Fresh Peaches: Peel, slice, and toss with sugar and spices
All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base crust and streusel topping
Cold Butter: Cut into flour mixture until crumbly
Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture to crust
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the peach filling
Cornstarch: Thickens peach juices during baking

Let's Make These Together

Create the crust base: Mix flour and brown sugar in a large bowl, then cut in cold butter until the mixture looks like coarse breadcrumbs. Press half firmly into your lined baking pan.
Prepare peach filling: Slice your peaches and toss them with sugar, cornstarch, vanilla, and cinnamon. This coating will help create that perfect jammy consistency.
Layer and top: Arrange the seasoned peaches over your crust base, then sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top for that signature streusel finish.
Bake to perfection: Pop in the oven until golden and bubbling, then let cool completely before cutting. This patience pays off with clean, beautiful squares!

Recipe picture — Fresh baked peach dessert bars showing tender fruit layers and buttery shortbread base | lonerecipes.com

Switch Things Up

I discovered this recipe during a summer when my neighbor's peach tree was overflowing with fruit. She kept bringing me bags of perfectly ripe peaches, and I needed to find creative ways to use them all. These bars became my go-to solution! The first time I made them, I was amazed at how the simple ingredients transformed into something so elegant. The kitchen filled with the most incredible peachy aroma, and my family couldn't stop raving about them. Now, every summer when peaches are in season, I make multiple batches to freeze for later. It's become our family's signature summer dessert, and friends always request the recipe after trying them.

Perfect Pairings

These peach bars pair beautifully with vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. They're also wonderful alongside a cup of Earl Grey tea or fresh coffee for an afternoon snack. For a more sophisticated presentation, serve with a dollop of mascarpone cheese or a drizzle of honey. Fresh mint leaves make a lovely garnish, and a sprinkle of toasted almonds adds a nice textural contrast.

Homemade peach bars with layers of sweet fruit filling and golden streusel crumbs | lonerecipes.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh?: Yes, but thaw them first and drain any excess liquid. You may need extra cornstarch to absorb moisture.
→ How do I know when the bars are done?: The topping should be golden brown and the peach filling should be bubbling around the edges.
→ Can these bars be made ahead of time?: Absolutely! They actually taste better the next day as flavors meld. Store covered for up to 3 days.
→ What's the best way to cut clean squares?: Make sure bars are completely cooled, then use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.
→ Can I double this recipe?: Yes, use a 9x13 inch pan and increase baking time by 5-10 minutes until golden and set.

Conclusion

These summer peach bars are the perfect way to celebrate the season's best fruit. The combination of buttery crust, sweet peach filling, and crumbly topping creates a dessert that's both rustic and refined. They're easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough for special occasions. Serve them warm with vanilla ice cream or enjoy them at room temperature with coffee. These bars capture the essence of summer in every delicious bite.