Peach Bars with Brown Butter Crumble

Peach Bars with Brown Butter Crumble are a delightful summer dessert featuring a buttery shortbread crust, sweet peach filling, and a golden, nutty brown butter crumble topping. Each bite is rich with seasonal flavor and comforting textures—perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a cozy treat at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars are the essence of rustic elegance, combining the natural sweetness of fresh peaches with the deep, rich flavor of brown butter. The tender shortbread crust provides a sturdy base, while the crumble topping adds a crisp, golden finish. They’re easy to prepare, slice beautifully, and offer a balance of fruity brightness and buttery warmth. Enjoy them on their own or elevate them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Shortbread Crust:

• unsalted butter, softened
• granulated sugar
• all-purpose flour
• salt

For the Peach Filling:

• fresh peaches, diced
• brown sugar
• cornstarch
• vanilla extract
• cinnamon

For the Brown Butter Crumble:

• unsalted butter
• all-purpose flour
• brown sugar
• cinnamon
• salt

Directions

Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar.
3. Add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough is crumbly.
4. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
5. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove from the oven and set aside.

Make the Peach Filling:
6. In a bowl, combine the diced peaches, brown sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
7. Toss gently and let sit while preparing the crumble.

Make the Brown Butter Crumble:
8. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir frequently until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Remove from heat.
9. In a bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
10. Pour in the brown butter and stir until a crumbly mixture forms.

Assemble and Bake:
11. Spread the peach filling evenly over the pre-baked crust.
12. Sprinkle the brown butter crumble evenly over the top.
13. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling at the edges.

Cool and Serve:
14. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
15. Serve as-is, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 bars
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories: 220 kcal per serving

Variations

• Berry Peach Bars: Add a handful of blueberries or raspberries to the peach filling for a berry twist.
• Nutty Crumble: Mix chopped pecans or almonds into the crumble topping for added crunch.
• Spiced Version: Add ground nutmeg or ginger to the filling and topping for extra warmth.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Stone Fruit Mix: Combine peaches with nectarines or apricots for a unique flavor blend.

Storage/Reheating

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the bars individually wrapped for up to 2 months. To enjoy warm, reheat briefly in the microwave or oven before serving.

FAQs

Can I use canned or frozen peaches?

Yes, if fresh peaches are unavailable, you can use canned (drained) or frozen (thawed and drained) peaches. Be sure to remove excess moisture.

What’s the purpose of browning the butter?

Browning the butter enhances the flavor of the crumble with rich, nutty notes that complement the sweet peach filling.

How do I keep the crust from becoming soggy?

Pre-baking the crust ensures it stays firm and crisp under the fruit filling.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars can be made a day in advance. Store them in the fridge and allow to come to room temperature before serving.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Double the ingredients and bake in two 9×13 pans or a larger baking dish, adjusting the baking time as needed.

Can I use other fruits instead of peaches?

Yes, this recipe works well with apples, plums, or pears for a seasonal twist.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The crumble should be golden brown and the filling bubbling slightly around the edges.

Do I need to peel the peaches?

Peeling is optional. Leaving the skin on adds color and texture, but peeling offers a smoother consistency.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, you may reduce the sugar slightly in both the filling and topping without drastically altering the texture.

Are these bars suitable for freezing?

Yes, once cooled and sliced, wrap the bars tightly and freeze. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Conclusion

Peach Bars with Brown Butter Crumble are a comforting and flavorful dessert that celebrates the sweetness of summer peaches and the richness of brown butter. With their buttery shortbread base, warm spiced filling, and golden crumble topping, these bars offer a deliciously textured treat perfect for entertaining or everyday indulgence. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed on their own, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite.