Imagine the classic flavor combination of juicy peaches and dreamy whipped cream, but all wrapped up in a tender, buttery bar that’s perfect for sharing. That’s exactly what you get with these Peaches and Cream Pie Bars: a golden crust, luscious cream cheese filling, sweet-tart peaches, and a crumbly topping. If you’re craving something nostalgic yet a little extra-special for dessert, these bars deliver the taste of summer in every bite, with the kind of comfort that makes you want to bake them again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need anything fancy for these Peaches and Cream Pie Bars—just a handful of staples that work magic together. Each ingredient plays a unique role, from building a golden crust to making that creamy, irresistible filling.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): The foundation of your crust and crumbly topping—make sure it’s soft for easy blending.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup + 1/3 cup + 2 tablespoons): Sweetens both crust and filling while enhancing the peaches’ natural sugars.
- Large eggs (2 total): One for the base dough, one for the creamy filling—they give structure and richness.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon + 1/2 teaspoon): Adds warm, dessert-shop aroma and brings out the best in both crust and cream layer.
- All-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups + 1 tablespoon): Builds structure in the base, and just a touch thickens the juicy peach topping.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for balancing sweetness and deepening flavor throughout.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): The “cream” in these bars—a tangy, smooth middle layer that’s delightfully rich.
- Fresh or canned peaches (2 cups, sliced and drained): Star of the show! They bring juicy sweetness and fabulous color.
- Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Gives the peaches a cozy, spiced note that feels like summer meets early fall.
How to Make Peaches and Cream Pie Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides—this makes it so much easier to lift your finished bars out in one piece, keeping every edge tidy and beautiful.
Step 2: Make the Buttery Crust and Crumble
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until you have a light, fluffy mixture. Beat in one egg and the teaspoon of vanilla, making sure everything is well combined. Gradually add in the 2 1/2 cups of flour and the salt, mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Scoop out two-thirds of this dough and firmly press it into the bottom of your prepared pan—press it evenly, as this is the base of your Peaches and Cream Pie Bars.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
Grab a separate mixing bowl and beat together the cream cheese, 1/3 cup sugar, one egg, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. The filling should be ultra-smooth and creamy with no lumps. Pour this dreamy layer over your prepared crust, spreading it with a spatula to completely cover the base.
Step 4: Layer On the Peaches
In another bowl, toss your sliced peaches (fresh or well-drained canned) with 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon flour, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. This step marries those flavors and gives the peach juices just enough thickening to prevent sogginess. Gently layer the peach mixture over the cream cheese filling, spreading evenly for bursts of fruit in each bite.
Step 5: Finish With the Crumble Topping
Take the remaining third of your dough and crumble it generously over the top of the peaches. Leave some juicy fruit peeking through—the contrasting textures and golden specks are the hallmark of classic Peaches and Cream Pie Bars.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake the assembled bars in your preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and the center doesn’t jiggle. Cool the pan completely on a wire rack. For the tidiest slices (especially if you’re serving guests), chill the bars for an hour before cutting—this helps the layers set perfectly.
How to Serve Peaches and Cream Pie Bars
Garnishes
Dress up each square with a dusting of powdered sugar for a lovely finish, or add a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream. A scattering of crushed almonds or a drizzle of simple vanilla glaze can take your Peaches and Cream Pie Bars from casual to company-worthy in two seconds flat!
Side Dishes
These luscious bars are delightful with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a bowl of fresh berries. For an afternoon treat, try pairing them with lemony iced tea or a mug of strong coffee, which balances the creamy sweetness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Show off your Peaches and Cream Pie Bars as part of a dessert board with other seasonal fruit squares, or cut into mini-bites for an elegant brunch spread. Stack a few on parchment, tie with twine, and you have an irresistible edible gift for friends or neighbors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store your Peaches and Cream Pie Bars covered in the refrigerator. They’ll keep their texture and freshness for up to 5 days, so you can enjoy a sweet slice any time the craving strikes.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? These bars freeze beautifully! Arrange cooled, cut squares in a single layer between wax paper in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for that just-baked taste.
Reheating
If you prefer your bars slightly warm, pop individual pieces in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. Or reheat several at a time in a low oven for a few minutes—just enough to take off the chill and gently revive the soft, creamy filling.
FAQs
Can I use frozen peaches for Peaches and Cream Pie Bars?
Absolutely! Just thaw and drain frozen peaches thoroughly before using. This keeps your bars from becoming watery and ensures the topping stays perfectly crumbly.
What’s the best way to cut clean squares?
For the cleanest slices, chill your bars completely before cutting. Use a sharp knife, wiping it between cuts for beautifully neat edges—your dessert platter will look bakery-worthy!
Can I make Peaches and Cream Pie Bars gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute a quality 1-to-1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. The bars may be slightly more delicate, but the flavor and creamy layers will still shine.
Is it possible to use nectarines instead of peaches?
Definitely! Nectarines are a fantastic swap and bring a similar sweet-tart flavor profile. Just slice and treat them exactly as you would the peaches for a delicious twist.
Can I add a glaze on top?
Of course! A quick drizzle made from powdered sugar and a few teaspoons of milk is all you need for an extra-sweet touch. Wait until the bars have cooled before adding the glaze so it sets beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Bursting with ripe fruit, creamy layers, and buttery crumbs, these Peaches and Cream Pie Bars are the kind of treat that wins over every crowd. There’s just something about their charming simplicity and comforting flavors that makes them impossible to resist. Try them soon, and be ready to watch them disappear—your kitchen will smell amazing and everyone will ask for the recipe!
Print
Peaches and Cream Pie Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of peaches and cream with these luscious Peaches and Cream Pie Bars. A buttery crust, creamy cheesecake layer, and fresh peach topping make these bars a perfect summer treat.
Ingredients
Crust:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping:
- 2 cups fresh or canned peaches (sliced and drained)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Prepare crust: Cream butter and 1 cup sugar. Beat in egg, vanilla, flour, and salt to form dough. Press two-thirds into pan.
- Make filling: Beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth. Spread over crust.
- Add peaches: Toss peaches with sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Layer over cream cheese.
- Add topping: Crumble remaining dough on top. Bake for 35–40 minutes until set. Cool and cut into bars.
- Chill: For cleaner slices, chill before serving.
Notes
- You can use nectarines or frozen peaches. Consider adding a powdered sugar and milk glaze for extra sweetness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
