Are you ready for a dessert that combines the sweetness of peaches and plums? My Peach Plum Crumble Bars are a must-try! These delicious bars feature juicy fruit and a crumbly topping that’s simply irresistible. Perfectly baked, these treats are great for any occasion or just as a sweet snack at home. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps, so you can whip up this delight in no time!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh Fruit Flavor: The combination of ripe peaches and plums creates a vibrant, juicy filling that bursts with flavor in every bite.
- Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for a last-minute dessert or a weekend baking project.
- Versatile Dessert: These crumble bars are great on their own, but you can also serve them with ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat.
- Perfect for Sharing: With 12 bars, this recipe is ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or simply enjoying with family.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 cups ripe peaches, diced
– 2 cups ripe plums, diced
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup brown sugar, packed
Additional Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
Crust and Topping Ingredients
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ cup rolled oats
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
– 1 large egg
I love using ripe peaches and plums for this recipe. They add a sweet and tangy flavor. The sugars balance the fruits’ tartness, creating a delicious filling. A touch of lemon juice brightens the fruit and keeps it fresh. The vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, making it even more inviting.
For the crust and topping, all-purpose flour and rolled oats create a perfect crumbly texture. The baking powder helps the crust rise, while the salt enhances the flavors. Cold butter is key. It ensures the topping is light and flaky. Finally, one egg binds everything together, making the crust easy to work with.
Gathering these ingredients is simple. You can find fresh peaches and plums at your local market. The other items are common pantry staples.This will guide you to make the best Peach Plum Crumble Bars!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
– Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
First, set your oven to the right temperature. This step is key for even baking. Next, prepare your baking dish. The parchment paper helps the bars come out easily.
Prepare the Fruit Filling
– Toss diced peaches and plums with lemon juice and sugar.
– Let the fruit mixture marinate.
In a bowl, mix the diced peaches and plums. Add lemon juice and sugar to enhance the flavor. Toss gently so the fruit gets coated well. Now, let it sit for a bit. This will help the flavors come together.
Make the Crumble Dough
– Combine dry ingredients in a bowl.
– Incorporate cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter.
– Stir in the egg and divide the dough.
In a large bowl, mix your dry ingredients: flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Next, add cold butter and mix it. Use a fork or pastry cutter to break it into smaller pieces. The goal is a crumbly texture. Then, stir in the egg. This binds everything. Finally, split the dough in half.
Assemble and Bake
– Press dough into the baking dish base.
– Spread marinated fruit on top.
– Crumble remaining dough over fruit.
Take one half of the dough and press it into the bottom of your dish. Make sure it covers the whole base. Now, spread the marinated fruit evenly over this layer. Crumble the rest of the dough on top of the fruit. This will create a nice topping.
Baking Instructions
– Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.
– Cool bars in the dish before lifting out.
Put the dish in the oven and bake. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the fruit bubbles. Once baked, let it cool in the dish. This step helps the bars set up. After about 20 minutes, use the parchment paper to lift them out. Enjoy your Peach Plum Crumble Bars!
Pro Tips
- Choose Ripe Fruit: Ensure your peaches and plums are ripe for the best flavor and sweetness in your crumble bars.
- Use Cold Butter: Using cold butter helps to create a flaky texture in the crumble topping, enhancing the overall quality of the bars.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts and better presentation.
- Experiment with Spices: Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble for an extra layer of flavor that complements the fruits beautifully.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
How to select ripe peaches and plums
When choosing peaches and plums, look for soft skin. The fruit should yield slightly to gentle pressure. A sweet aroma means they are ripe and full of flavor. Avoid any fruit with bruises or dark spots.
Ideal mixing techniques for crumble texture
To get that perfect crumble, mix the butter into the dry ingredients carefully. You want small, pea-sized pieces of butter. This helps create a flaky texture. Use a fork or pastry cutter for the best results. Do not overmix; you want a crumbly texture, not a dough.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation tips with powdered sugar and ice cream
Serve your Peach Plum Crumble Bars on a nice plate. Dust them with powdered sugar for a sweet touch. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. This makes the dish look fancy and taste even better.
Pairing ideas with drinks or other desserts
Pair these bars with a cup of tea or a glass of sparkling water. For a fun twist, enjoy them with a fruity cocktail. They also go well with other summer desserts, like berry sorbet.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overmixing the crumble topping
Mixing too much can turn your topping into a dough. Stop as soon as you see the butter is mixed in. You want to see some small chunks for a nice texture.
Not allowing bars to cool properly
It is key to let the bars cool for at least 20 minutes. This helps them set and makes slicing easier. If you cut them too soon, they will fall apart.
Variations
Dietary Substitutions
You can easily adjust this recipe to fit your needs. If you want a gluten-free option, you can use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour. Almond flour gives a nice nutty flavor and works well in crumble bars. For a vegan version, replace the butter with coconut oil and the egg with a flax egg. A flax egg is made by mixing one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.
Flavor Enhancements
To make your crumble even tastier, think about adding spices. A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can really boost the flavor. These spices pair well with peaches and plums. You can also mix in some nuts or shredded coconut into the crumble topping. Chopped almonds or walnuts add a nice crunch and extra nutrition.
Different Fruit Combinations
Feel free to get creative with the fruit! You can swap out peaches and plums for other summer fruits like cherries or blueberries. Mixing different berries can create a colorful and flavorful treat. A mixed berry crumble bar will surprise your taste buds and is perfect for summer picnics.
Storage Info
How to Store
To keep your Peach Plum Crumble Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. You can use glass or plastic containers for this. Make sure the bars are fully cooled before putting them inside. This helps prevent sogginess. You can place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some for later, freeze the baked bars. First, let them cool completely. Then, cut them into bars. Wrap each one in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. When you’re ready to enjoy them, take them out and reheat them. To reheat, place the bars in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will keep the texture nice.
Shelf Life
At room temperature, these bars last about 3-4 days. If you store them in the fridge, they can stay fresh for up to a week. Watch out for signs that they have gone bad. If you see any mold or if they smell off, it’s best to throw them away. Trust your senses; they will guide you!
FAQs
Can I make Peach Plum Crumble Bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these bars ahead of time. Just bake the bars and let them cool completely. Then, store them in an airtight container. You can keep them at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, place them in the fridge for a week. If you want to freeze them, wrap each bar in plastic wrap, then put them in a freezer bag. They will last for up to three months. To reheat, place the bars in a warm oven for a few minutes. You can also enjoy them cold!
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Check the bars after 35 minutes. Look for a golden-brown topping. You should also see some bubbling fruit. Insert a toothpick into the crust. If it comes out clean, the bars are ready. If not, bake a few more minutes. The crust should feel firm but not hard. Trust your eyes and use these cues to ensure they are perfect!
What are some other topping ideas for Crumble Bars?
You can get creative with your toppings! Try adding chopped nuts, like almonds or pecans, for crunch. Shredded coconut adds a nice touch too. You can also sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. For a sweeter flavor, mix in chocolate chips or dried fruit. Each topping brings a new twist to your bars. Experiment and find your favorite combination!
This guide covered how to make delicious Peach Plum Crumble Bars step-by-step. We explored the key ingredients, baking methods, and tips for perfecting the recipe. You learned how to prepare the fruit and make the crumble dough. Also, we talked about storage and variations, so you can customize your bars.
Now, you have the tools to create a tasty treat that suits your taste. Enjoy the process and share your results! Happy baking!
