When the sun is high and juicy peaches are overflowing at the farmers market, it’s time to whip up a batch of Heavenly Summer Peach Bars. These luscious dessert bars capture the very essence of summer—ripe, golden peaches layered over a buttery shortbread crust, all topped with a soft, sweet crumble. Every bite is fruity, rich, and just the right amount of indulgent.
Perfect for backyard barbecues, picnics, potlucks, or a quiet afternoon with tea, these peach bars are easy to make and impossible to resist.
Why These Peach Bars Are a Must-Try Dessert
- Uses real fresh peaches for unbeatable flavor
- Simple, from-scratch shortbread crust that melts in your mouth
- Crumble topping adds the perfect texture and sweetness
- Easy to transport and serve for any occasion
- Can be made ahead for stress-free entertaining
These bars are the perfect balance of fruity, buttery, and crumbly—like a peach pie, but easier and even more snackable
Ingredients for Heavenly Summer Peach Bars
🍑 For the Shortbread Crust:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
🍑 For the Peach Filling:
- 4–5 large ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and diced
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
🍑 For the Crumb Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Peach Bars
1. Preheat and Prepare Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
2. Make the Shortbread Crust
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with the granulated and brown sugars until smooth and creamy.
Add the flour and salt and mix until crumbly and slightly sticky—like wet sand. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and set aside.
3. Prepare the Peach Filling
While the crust bakes, toss the diced peaches with sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, cinnamon, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl. Stir gently to coat the fruit thoroughly.
Allow the mixture to sit for 5–10 minutes so the juices can begin to release.
4. Make the Crumb Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until crumbly and pea-sized.
5. Assemble and Bake
Once the crust has slightly cooled, spread the peach filling evenly over the top. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the peaches.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the peach filling is bubbly.
Cool completely in the pan before lifting out using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares or bars.
Tips for Best Results
✅ Use Ripe, Firm Peaches
Soft peaches may become too watery during baking. Look for ripe but slightly firm fruit for the best texture and flavor.
✅ Don’t Skip the Cornstarch
It helps thicken the peach juices as they bake, giving your bars that perfect soft-but-not-soggy consistency.
✅ Let Bars Cool Before Cutting
Warm bars can fall apart when sliced. For clean cuts, allow to cool fully or refrigerate for an hour before serving.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezing Tips
- Make Ahead: Prepare up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Storage: Store peach bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled for a refreshing treat on hot summer days, or bring to room temperature to let the buttery crust and juicy filling shine. For a decadent dessert, top with:
- A dollop of whipped cream
- A drizzle of honey or caramel
- A scoop of vanilla or peach ice cream
These bars pair beautifully with iced tea, sparkling lemonade, or a glass of chilled white wine.
Variations to Try
- Peach Raspberry Bars: Add a handful of raspberries for a tangy twist.
- Coconut Crumb Topping: Mix shredded coconut into the topping for added texture and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the crust and topping.
- Spiced Version: Add nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth and complexity.
Why These Peach Bars Are the Ultimate Summer Dessert
These Heavenly Summer Peach Bars are the embodiment of warm weather joy: fresh fruit, a buttery bite, and just the right touch of sweetness. They’re rustic yet elegant, easy to make yet impressive enough for guests, and versatile enough for any summer occasion.
Whether served at a backyard barbecue or enjoyed with a quiet afternoon coffee, these bars will become a treasured favorite in your summer dessert lineup.
