These Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars are a tasty treat! They combine sweet, juicy peaches with creamy cheesecake on a buttery crust. Perfect for summer gatherings!
I love how easy these bars are to make and that they disappear quickly at potlucks. Just cut them into squares, serve cold, and watch everyone smile! 🍑😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This gives a sturdy base for the bars. If you’re gluten-free, consider using a gluten-free flour blend to keep the texture similar.
Fresh Peaches: Fresh peaches add amazing flavor, but if they aren’t in season, canned peaches work well too! Just make sure to drain them well. You can also use other fruits like nectarines or plums.
Cream Cheese: For a lighter twist, you can substitute with Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat. However, full-fat cream cheese gives the best flavor and creaminess.
Granulated Sugar: If you’re looking to cut down on sugar, substitute half with a sugar alternative like stevia or coconut sugar. Just be sure to check the conversion ratio!
Powdered Sugar: This is used for the glaze. If you’re running out, you can blend granulated sugar until fine; it works just as well!
How Do I Get the Perfect Crust?
The crust sets the stage for these cheesecake bars, so let’s make it perfect! Ensure your butter is very cold. This helps create a flaky texture. Here’s how to prepare it:
- Mix the flour and powdered sugar in a bowl. It helps to sift them for a smoother crust.
- Add the cold butter and cut it in until you see pea-sized crumbs. Using your fingers is fine, but be quick to keep the butter cold!
- When pressing the mixture into the pan, make sure it’s even, so it bakes uniformly.
- Remember to let it cool slightly before adding the cheesecake layer!
Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
For the Peaches Layer:
- 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced (or canned peaches, drained)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 35-40 minutes to bake. After baking, allow at least 2 hours in the fridge to set properly. So overall, you’ll be looking at about 3 hours before you can enjoy these delicious bars.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Delicious Crust:
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and powdered sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until it looks like coarse crumbs. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Bake for about 12-15 minutes until it’s lightly golden. Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes.
3. Prepare the Juicy Peaches:
In a small bowl, toss the diced peaches with granulated sugar and lemon juice. This will help bring out their natural sweetness. Let them sit while you whip up the cheesecake filling.
4. Whip Up the Cheesecake Filling:
In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar until it’s smooth and creamy. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, then mix until everything is well combined.
5. Assemble the Layers:
Now, pour the cream cheese mixture over your slightly cooled crust, spreading it out evenly. Spoon the prepared peaches gently over the cheesecake layer. You can give it a light swirl with a knife for a pretty presentation.
6. Bake and Cool:
Place the assembled dish back in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The center should be set but slightly jiggly. When done, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
7. Finish with the Glaze:
While the bars are cooling, make your glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this mixture over your cooled bars.
8. Chill and Serve:
For best results, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to allow them to set up nicely. Once chilled, slice them into squares and serve. Enjoy your refreshing Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars!
FAQ for Peaches and Cream Cheesecake Bars
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen peaches, make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your bars. Simply pat them dry with a paper towel after thawing for the best results.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To keep them fresh, it’s best to enjoy them within this time frame. Just chill again before serving if needed!
Can I Make These Bars Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare these cheesecake bars up to a day in advance. Just make sure to refrigerate them after glazing and cover them tightly. They actually taste even better after chilling overnight!
Can I Substitute the Cream Cheese?
Yes, you can use Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter version, or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you’re looking for a plant-based option. Just note that the texture and taste may slightly vary!
