Peaches and Cream Bars Recipe

There’s something magical about biting into a homemade treat that feels like summer in every bite, and Peaches and Cream Bars are exactly that! This luscious dessert layers a buttery, tender crust with a creamy cheesecake center, crowned in sweet peach pie filling and finished with a dreamy almond glaze. These bars are the edible version of a warm hug — fruity, creamy, and undeniably irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a potluck or a cozy family night, Peaches and Cream Bars deliver a classic flavor combo that everyone will ask for again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With only a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role, you’ll transform everyday pantry staples into layers of pure comfort. From the creamy base to the bright peachy topping, nothing here is fussy, but every component counts!

• Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): The key to a rich, melt-in-your-mouth base; using softened butter helps your crust turn out beautifully tender.
• Sugar (2 cups for crust, 1/2 cup for cheesecake layer, 1 cup powdered for glaze): Sweetens and balances tartness, while the powdered sugar in the glaze creates that irresistible drippy finish.
• Large eggs (4 for crust, 1 for cheesecake): Add structure and creaminess to both the crust and the cheesecake layer — room temperature eggs give the best texture.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon in crust, 1 teaspoon in cheesecake, optional in glaze): Adds warmth and depth, making every bite feel extra inviting.
• All-purpose flour (3 cups): The backbone of the crust, creating a soft, sturdy base for all the creamy and fruity fillings.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Just enough to balance all the sweetness and help the flavors pop.
• Peach pie filling (21 ounce can): The star of the show — lush, syrupy peaches bring color and juicy flavor to the bars.
• Cream cheese (8 ounce block, softened): Creates that swoon-worthy creamy layer, and using block cream cheese (not whipped) gives the best results.
• Milk (2 tablespoons, for glaze): Helps thin the glaze so it drizzles perfectly over the bars.
• Almond extract (1 teaspoon, for glaze): Adds a fragrant, bakery-style finish, though vanilla extract works beautifully too.

How to Make Peaches and Cream Bars

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. Lining your pan with parchment paper can make lifting the bars out a breeze later, but a well-greased pan works just fine.

Step 2: Make the Buttery Bar Batter

In a stand mixer or with a hand mixer, cream together the softened butter and 2 cups of sugar. You’re aiming for a pale, fluffy mixture — this step gives the bars their delightfully tender crumb. Then beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Mix

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your creamed mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the base to stay tender.

Step 4: Form the Crust Layer

Scoop half of your prepared batter into the bottom of your baking pan and spread it evenly. It doesn’t need to be perfect — just make sure it covers the bottom so you get that base in every bite.

Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

Beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar until smooth and creamy. Mix in the vanilla extract and one egg until fully blended; this luscious layer brings the “cream” to your Peaches and Cream Bars and keeps them irresistibly rich.

Step 6: Assemble Dreamy Layers

Spread the cream cheese mixture over your first layer of bar batter. Then spoon the peach pie filling evenly across the cream cheese layer, so every slice gets plenty of peachy goodness.

Step 7: Add Final Batter Topping

Take the remaining bar batter and drop spoonfuls over the peach layer. The batter will spread as it bakes, so don’t worry if it doesn’t fully cover the peaches — a few golden pockets peeking through are part of their charm.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is light golden brown and set. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before moving on; this helps the creamy middle layer firm up for perfect slicing.

Step 9: Glaze and Serve

Once your Peaches and Cream Bars are fully cool, whisk the powdered sugar, milk, and almond (or vanilla) extract together until you have a smooth, pourable glaze. Drizzle generously over the bars, then cut into whatever size your heart desires and get ready for smiles all around!

How to Serve Peaches and Cream Bars

Garnishes

To elevate every slice, try garnishing your Peaches and Cream Bars with a sprinkle of sliced almonds for crunch or a light dusting of powdered sugar. Fresh peach slices or a few mint leaves can add a pretty pop of color, taking things from homestyle to bakery-worthy in seconds!

Side Dishes

Serve Peaches and Cream Bars alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or lightly sweetened whipped cream to create a dessert plate worthy of any celebration. A fresh fruit salad or cold glass of iced tea makes for a delightfully simple pairing, balancing the sweetness of the bars with something light and refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving a crowd, cut the bars into small squares and arrange them on a tiered dessert tray with peaches on the side. For a picnic, pack them into parchment-lined boxes for easy transporting. Or, stack slices in clear treat bags tied with ribbons for an edible gift everyone will adore!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store your Peaches and Cream Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to five days — just be sure to separate layers with wax paper if you’re stacking them so the glaze stays neat.

Freezing

For longer storage, these bars freeze beautifully. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator so they’re ready whenever your peach craving strikes!

Reheating

While Peaches and Cream Bars are fantastic straight from the fridge, you can gently warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that just-baked softness. If you prefer, reheat in a 300°F oven for a few minutes to restore a touch of that golden crust.

FAQs

Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned peach pie filling?

Absolutely! You can substitute with fresh peaches that have been tossed in a little sugar and cornstarch, but you may want to add a splash of lemon juice and a bit of cinnamon to enhance the flavor. Just keep an eye on moisture — too much liquid can make the bars a bit messy!

Can Peaches and Cream Bars be made gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Make sure your blend includes xanthan gum or another binder for best results, so the crust holds together beautifully.

What can I use instead of almond extract in the glaze?

Vanilla extract works perfectly and still adds a lovely aroma. You could also try a drop of orange or lemon extract for a fun citrusy twist on classic Peaches and Cream Bars.

Do I need to refrigerate Peaches and Cream Bars?

Because of the cream cheese layer, it’s best to store these bars in the fridge. Keep them in an airtight container, and they’ll taste fresh and fabulous for several days.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

You sure can! Just use two pans or a larger baking sheet (keeping an eye on baking time), and you’ll have enough Peaches and Cream Bars to share at any party or gathering. Trust me — they’ll disappear fast!

Final Thoughts

Peaches and Cream Bars are the kind of treat that turns an ordinary day into something a little more special. Whether you’re a long-time fan of this classic flavor combo or discovering it for the first time, these bars are sure to win hearts. Give them a try — you may just find your new favorite dessert!

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