Peach Crumble Bars

These Peach Crumble Bars are a delightful dessert with a buttery shortbread base, a sweet peach filling, and a crisp crumble topping. Here’s how you can make them:

Ingredients:

For the Shortbread Base:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Peach Filling:

• 4-5 medium peaches, peeled and sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

For the Crumble Topping:

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup rolled oats (optional)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.

2. Make the Shortbread Base
   In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
   Add the flour and salt, mixing until combined. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
   Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Peach Filling
   In a large bowl, toss the sliced peaches with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and cinnamon (if using) until evenly coated.
   Spread the peach mixture evenly over the pre-baked shortbread crust.

4. Make the Crumble Topping
   In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, rolled oats (if using), brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
   Stir in the melted butter until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
   Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the peach filling.

5. Bake
   Bake the bars for 30-35 minutes, or until the crumble is golden brown and the peach filling is bubbling.
   Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang.

6. Slice and Serve
   Slice the cooled bars into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!

Notes:

• Peach Ripeness: Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor.
• Oats: Oats in the crumble topping are optional, but they add a nice texture and flavor if you choose to include them.
• Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

These Peach Crumble Bars are perfect for a sweet treat or dessert any time of the year! Enjoy!