Nectarine Crumble Bars – Easy Recipe for Summer Desserts

Nectarine Crumble Bars are the perfect treat for those looking for a sweet, refreshing dessert with a touch of buttery, crumbly goodness. This delightful recipe combines the tartness of ripe nectarines with a warm, spiced crumble topping, creating an irresistible dessert. Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a homemade treat, these bars will quickly become a favorite. The recipe is simple, requires minimal ingredients, and offers a great way to enjoy the peak flavors of fresh nectarines.

Why You’ll Love Nectarine Crumble Bars

These Nectarine Crumble Bars are not just another fruity dessert. They feature a luscious filling of juicy nectarines, spiced with cinnamon, and paired with a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth crust and crumble topping. The best part? The topping and the crust are made from the same dough, which makes the recipe incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers, these bars are ideal for those who want a stress-free yet delicious treat. Plus, they make for a great dessert or snack that everyone will love!

Ingredients for Nectarine Crumble Bars

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Nectarine Crumble Bars:

• All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the crust and crumble topping, providing structure and texture.
• Brown sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the dough.
• Granulated sugar: Enhances the sweetness of both the crust and the nectarine filling.
• Baking powder: Helps the dough rise slightly, giving it a light and fluffy texture.
• Cinnamon: A warm spice that complements the flavor of the nectarines and the crumble.
• Nutmeg: Adds a hint of warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
• Salt: Balances out the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Provides richness and moisture to the dough and crumble topping.
• Egg: Helps bind the dough together and adds a bit of moisture.
• Sliced nectarines: The star of the recipe, providing a juicy, slightly tangy filling.
• Lemon juice: Brightens the nectarine filling and balances the sweetness.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the nectarine filling for a perfect texture.
• Vanilla extract: Adds depth and sweetness to the nectarine filling.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking for variations or have dietary preferences, here are some suggestions:

• Gluten-free flour: If you’re gluten-sensitive, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-free butter: Use a dairy-free butter substitute if you need a dairy-free option.
• Maple syrup: Swap out the granulated sugar for maple syrup to add a unique flavor to the bars.
• Peaches: If nectarines are unavailable, peaches make a delicious alternative and offer a similar flavor and texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Nectarine Crumble Bars

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with aluminum foil, spraying it with cooking spray for easy removal later.
2. Prepare the dough: In a large food processor, combine flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Pulse until mixed. Add cold, cubed butter and pulse until crumbs form. Add the whisked egg and pulse until a dough forms. If the mixture doesn’t come together, transfer to a bowl and stir it with your hands or a spatula.
3. Form the crust: Press a little over half of the dough mixture into the prepared baking dish to form the crust. Bake for 15 minutes.
4. Prepare the nectarine filling: While the crust bakes, combine the sliced nectarines, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a large bowl. In a separate small bowl, whisk together cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Pour the mixture over the nectarines and stir gently to combine.
5. Assemble the bars: After the crust has baked for 15 minutes, spoon the nectarine filling over the warm crust, making sure to leave out the excess juices. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the top of the nectarines.
6. Bake the bars: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, until the top is golden brown.
7. Cool and serve: Let the bars cool completely before slicing into squares. Enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Nectarine Crumble Bars

• Don’t skip the cooling time: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This helps the filling set and prevents the bars from falling apart.
• Texture check: If the bars seem too soft after baking, bake them for a few extra minutes to ensure the topping is golden and crisp.
• Spice it up: Feel free to experiment with different spices like ginger or cloves to personalize the flavor.
• Storage: Store leftover bars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

These Nectarine Crumble Bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them with these pairing ideas:

• Toppings: Serve them with a dollop of whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
• Side dishes: Pair these bars with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a sweet and savory contrast.
• Vegan version: Replace the egg and butter with plant-based alternatives for a vegan-friendly version.
• Make-ahead: These bars can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for easy serving at gatherings.

Seasonal and Health Benefits of Nectarine Crumble Bars

Nectarines are a great choice for summer baking, as they are naturally sweet and packed with vitamins A and C. These bars make for a perfect seasonal treat, showcasing the best of fresh, in-season fruit. Plus, they offer a lighter dessert option compared to other indulgent sweets. If you’re looking for a healthier dessert option, these bars are a great way to enjoy the refreshing flavors of nectarines in a simple, easy-to-make dessert.

Enjoy these delightful Nectarine Crumble Bars as a perfect summer treat or as a comforting dessert any time of year. They are sure to be a hit with family and friends alike!

Conclusion

Nectarine Crumble Bars are the ultimate combination of fresh, fruity sweetness and a buttery, crumbly topping. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, these bars offer a delightful dessert that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them at a summer BBQ, enjoying them with a cup of tea, or sharing them with friends, these bars are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget to try them with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the perfect finishing touch!

FAQs About Nectarine Crumble Bars

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