Rustic Peach and Cream Cheese Crumble Bars

Indulge in the perfect blend of sweet peaches and creamy cheese with these Rustic Peach and Cream Cheese Crumble Bars. A delightful and simple dessert that will have your taste buds dancing in delight.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups sliced peaches
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mix until a dough forms. Press 2/3 of the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
• In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread over the dough in the baking dish.
• In another bowl, mix the sliced peaches, sugar, and cornstarch. Spread over the cream cheese mixture.
• Crumble the remaining dough over the peaches.
• Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Allow to cool before slicing into bars.

Nutrition Information:

• Calories: 220
• Total Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 110mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 21g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 13g
• Protein: 3g

Popular questions:

• Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen peaches, just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before using them in the recipe.

• Can I substitute the cream cheese with mascarpone?

Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone for a slightly different flavor profile.

• Do I have to refrigerate these bars?

It’s recommended to refrigerate any leftovers, but they can be kept at room temperature for a day or two.

• Can I use peaches in syrup?

It’s best to use fresh or frozen peaches for this recipe to control the sugar content accurately.

• Can I add nuts to the crumble topping?

Absolutely, adding chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to the crumble topping can add extra crunch and flavor.

• How should I store these bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Can I use a different fruit instead of peaches?

You can try using other fruits like berries or apples for a different twist on the recipe.

• Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, you can freeze these bars for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can try using a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.

• What other spices can I add to the peaches?

You can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the peach mixture for added warmth and flavor.

Helpful tips:

• Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to the crumble topping for extra flavor.
• For a more intense peach flavor, you can add a splash of peach liqueur to the peach mixture.
• Serve these bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
• Experiment with different fruit combinations like peaches and raspberries for a tasty variation.
• You can drizzle a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk over the cooled bars for added sweetness.
• Make sure to let the bars cool completely before slicing to ensure they hold their shape.
• Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for the best taste and texture.
• Feel free to customize the crumble topping with oats or chopped nuts for added texture.
• Add a pinch of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for a burst of fresh flavor.
• Make a double batch and freeze half for a quick and easy dessert option in the future.

Expert Secrets:

• Make sure the butter for the crumble is cold to create a flaky and crispy topping.
• Press the dough firmly into the bottom of the baking dish to create a sturdy base for the bars.
• Allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
• Ensure the peaches are evenly sliced and coated in the sugar and cornstarch mixture for even cooking.
• Rotate the baking dish halfway through baking to ensure even browning of the top crust.
• Check the doneness of the bars by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when done.
• Let the bars cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing to allow them to set properly.
• For an extra decadent treat, drizzle a caramel sauce over the cooled bars before serving.
• Experiment with different fruit fillings like apples, pears, or berries for a seasonal twist.
• For a decorative touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top of the bars before serving.