Heavenly Summer Peach Bars

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Heavenly Summer Peach Bars

There’s something about peaches in the summertime that makes me instantly happy. Maybe it’s the way their sweetness fills the kitchen when you slice into one, or maybe it’s the way my kids’ faces light up when they know I’m baking with them. This Heavenly Summer Peach Bar recipe started out as a simple weekend experiment when I had a basket of ripe peaches sitting on the counter begging to be used. I wanted something that felt special but didn’t take all day to make because, let’s be honest, our days are already full enough. These peach bars hit every note perfectly—rich, buttery shortbread at the base, a luscious peach layer in the middle, and a crumbly, slightly sweet topping that ties it all together. The first time I made them, my husband took one bite and immediately asked if there was a second pan cooling somewhere. The kids? Let’s just say there were no leftovers. What I love most about this recipe is how it feels like summer in every bite but is also easy enough to throw together on a busy weekday. Whether I’m packing them for a picnic, serving them at a barbecue, or just enjoying one with coffee during a quiet morning, they’ve become a family favorite we look forward to every year. I can honestly say, if you love peaches, you need these bars in your life.

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?
Yes, you can, but fresh peaches give the best flavor and texture. If you use canned, be sure to drain them well.

Can these bars be frozen?
Absolutely! Freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months, then thaw in the fridge before serving.

Can I use other fruit?
Definitely. This recipe also works well with nectarines, plums, or even berries.

Do I need to peel the peaches?
No, peeling isn’t necessary. The skins soften during baking and add color and texture.

How long do they last?
Stored in the fridge, they stay fresh for up to 4 days.

What You Need to Make Heavenly Summer Peach Bars

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon salt

3 cups fresh peaches, sliced (about 4–5 peaches)

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1/4 cup brown sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

For topping: 1/2 cup flour, 1/4 cup sugar, 1/4 cup butter (cold, cubed)

Special Equipment:

9×13-inch baking pan

Mixing bowls

Pastry cutter or fork (for crumble topping)

How to Make Heavenly Summer Peach Bars

Prepare the Base: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. Mix butter, sugar, flour, and salt in a bowl until crumbly. Press firmly into the pan to form an even crust. Bake for 10 minutes.

Make the Filling: In a bowl, toss peaches with cornstarch, brown sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon. Spread evenly over the baked crust.

Make the Crumble: Combine flour, sugar, and cold butter with a pastry cutter until pea-sized crumbs form. Sprinkle over peaches.

Bake: Return to oven and bake for 30–35 minutes until topping is golden and peaches are bubbling.

Cool & Serve: Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars. Serve plain or with a dollop of whipped cream.

Tips for Making the Best Heavenly Summer Peach Bars

Use very ripe peaches for maximum sweetness.

Chill the crust ingredients slightly before baking to create a crisp base.

Add a squeeze of lemon juice to peaches for a fresh, bright flavor.

For extra crunch, mix chopped pecans or almonds into the crumble topping.

Refrigerate bars before slicing for neater squares.

Reader Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “These bars were a hit at our church picnic! Sweet, buttery, and the perfect taste of summer.” – Jessica M.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I loved the flavor but will add a touch more cinnamon next time. Still delicious!” – Hannah L.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “So easy to make and even easier to eat. My kids devoured them in one day!” – Rachel P.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great recipe, but I had to bake mine 5 minutes longer to get the topping golden. Will definitely make again.” – Simon D.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect dessert for busy days—tastes like I spent all afternoon baking when I didn’t!” – Kelly R.

Printable Recipe

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