Peaches and Cream Bars

Few desserts capture the carefree sweetness of summer as perfectly as these Peaches and Cream Bars. With layers of buttery crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and juicy peach pie filling, every bite is like sunshine on a plate. Finished with a delicate almond glaze, these bars are the ultimate balance of fruity freshness and indulgent comfort.

Whether you’re hosting a picnic, bringing a dessert to a potluck, or simply craving a taste of summer in your own kitchen, these bars deliver both flavor and beauty. They’re easy to make yet elegant enough to impress any crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Layers of flavor: Buttery crust, creamy cheesecake, and sweet peaches in one bite.

• Summer perfection: Highlights the natural sweetness of ripe peaches.

• Simple yet elegant: Easy to prepare, but looks and tastes bakery-worthy.

• Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for sharing at parties, holidays, or family gatherings.

• Customizable: Try with other pie fillings like cherry, blueberry, or apple.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 cup butter, softened

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 4 eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 egg

For the Peach Layer:

• 1 can (21 oz) peach pie filling

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2 tablespoons milk

• 1 teaspoon almond extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt, then gradually mix into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms. Press half of the dough into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to form the bottom crust.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Layer
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar, vanilla, and egg until smooth and creamy. Spread evenly over the crust.

Step 3: Add the Peach Filling
Spoon the peach pie filling evenly over the cheesecake layer. Drop small spoonfuls of the remaining dough across the top to create a soft, rustic topping.

Step 4: Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and set in the center. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.

Step 5: Glaze & Serve
Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars, let it set for 10–15 minutes, then slice into squares and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Fresh peaches: If you have fresh ripe peaches, you can make your own quick peach filling instead of canned.

• Other fruits: Swap the peach pie filling with cherry, blueberry, or apple for seasonal variations.

• Glaze flavors: Substitute almond extract with vanilla or lemon extract for a different twist.

• Serving suggestion: Serve chilled for a refreshing summer treat or warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Final Thoughts

Peaches and Cream Bars are everything a summer dessert should be—bright, fruity, creamy, and comforting. They bring together the best of a cheesecake and a fruit tart, all wrapped in an easy bar dessert that’s perfect for sharing. Whether you’re enjoying them on a sunny afternoon or saving them for a special gathering, these bars are bound to become a seasonal favorite.