Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars – Pretty. Simple. Sweet.

There’s something timeless and comforting about a dessert that blends juicy peaches, sweet cream, and a buttery crumble. That’s exactly what you get with Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars—a delightful treat that’s equal parts nostalgic and luxurious. Inspired by the much-loved recipe from Pretty. Simple. Sweet., these bars are perfect for summer gatherings, cozy evenings, or just a mid-week baking session.

Unlike more elaborate desserts, these bars offer the rich taste of a peach pie with far less effort. The recipe uses a single dough for both the shortbread crust and the streusel topping, making it simple without sacrificing flavor. The end result? A dessert that’s creamy, crunchy, and bursting with fresh fruit flavor.

When making this recipe, the secret to achieving the best flavor starts with the peaches. If you’re wondering how to select the best ones, this guide on how to choose ripe peaches is a great place to start. Using ripe, in-season peaches gives the bars a natural sweetness that doesn’t need a lot of added sugar.

What really sets these bars apart is the streusel topping. That crumbly, golden layer adds texture and flavor to each bite. If you’ve ever wondered about the science behind a perfect streusel, here’s a great breakdown of how streusel topping works. You’ll discover how small adjustments—like brown sugar or oats—can completely elevate the result.

Part 1: What Makes These Bars So Special

What Are Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars?

At their core, these bars combine three layers:

• A buttery shortbread crust as the foundation
• A creamy peach filling that’s lightly spiced and sweetened
• A crunchy crumble topping that brings it all together

Think of it as the love child between a peach cobbler and a cheesecake, with just enough structure to cut neatly into bars.

Ingredients Breakdown

For the crust and topping:

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar (for added flavor in the topping)
• Unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• Salt

For the filling:

• Chopped peaches (fresh and ripe preferred)
• Sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• All-purpose flour
• Heavy cream
• Vanilla extract (optional but recommended)

Want to play around? You can add ½ cup of old-fashioned oats or chopped nuts to the topping for extra crunch.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Here’s how to bring it all together:

1. Make the crust and topping dough
   • Combine flour, sugar, and salt.
   • Cut in the butter until crumbly.
   • Press two-thirds into a lined baking pan for the crust.
   • Reserve the rest and add brown sugar (and oats if using) to create the topping.
2. Bake the crust
   • Bake it at 350°F (180°C) for 15 minutes. It should be slightly golden.
3. Prepare the filling
   • Mix together sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt.
   • Toss with chopped peaches.
   • Stir in heavy cream and vanilla.
4. Assemble the bars
   • Pour the filling over the hot crust.
   • Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the top.
5. Bake
   • Return to oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until golden and bubbling.
6. Cool and set
   • Cool completely, then chill for at least 2 hours before slicing.

Part 2: Tips, Variations, and FAQs

Tips for Baking Success

• Use ripe peaches—not overripe, not underripe.
• Peel the peaches for a smoother filling texture.
• Prepare the filling while the crust is baking to keep the process seamless.
• Let bars chill completely before cutting so they set properly.
• Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

Creative Variations

Feel free to get playful:

• Swap peaches for nectarines, apricots, or berries
• Add a hint of nutmeg or even ginger for warmth
• Make it gluten-free with a 1-to-1 flour substitute
• Use dairy-free cream for a vegan-friendly version

Serving Suggestions

Serve these bars:

• Chilled with a dollop of whipped cream
• Warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Cut into bite-sized pieces for a dessert platter
• As part of a summer brunch spread

Storage and Freezing

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Freeze well wrapped for up to 3 months
• Thaw overnight in the fridge or warm briefly in the oven

Nutrition at a Glance

Each bar (based on 20 servings) approximately contains:

• 230–270 calories
• 12g fat
• 30g carbohydrates
• 2g protein

Note: These are general estimates and will vary based on exact ingredients used.

Why It’s Great for Entertaining

• Easy to make ahead
• Travels well
• Looks beautiful on a dessert tray
• Loved by both kids and adults

FAQs

Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?
Yes, but make sure to drain them thoroughly to avoid a soggy filling. Fresh peaches will yield better flavor and texture.

Do I need to peel the peaches?
Peeling is optional but recommended for a smoother texture in the filling.

How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?
Make sure to prebake the crust and pour the filling over it while still hot. This creates a seal and keeps the bars firm.

Can I make this with a different fruit?
Absolutely! Try cherries, blueberries, or a mix of stone fruits.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger pan and slightly adjust the baking time. Watch for the golden top and bubbling filling as cues.

This recipe is more than just dessert—it’s comfort in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or need a sweet ending to a weeknight meal, Peaches and Cream Crumble Bars deliver simplicity and satisfaction.