Peach Brown Butter Bars with Shortbread Crust are a perfect dessert for those who enjoy a rich, buttery flavor combined with the sweetness of fresh peaches. This recipe combines a buttery shortbread crust with a luscious brown butter filling, topped with juicy peach slices. Each bite is packed with flavor, as the caramelized notes of the brown butter complement the natural sweetness of the peaches, creating a dessert that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or served as a summertime treat, these bars are guaranteed to impress.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Shortbread Crust

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Brown Butter Filling

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 large eggs
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 2-3 ripe peaches, thinly slice

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Whisk to combine.
3. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Press the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared baking pan.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the edges are light golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Brown Butter

1. In a small saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat.
2. Once melted, continue cooking, swirling the pan occasionally, until the butter turns a golden brown color and develops a nutty aroma. This will take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let the brown butter cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
2. Add the brown butter to the egg mixture, stirring to incorporate.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until a smooth batter forms.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

1. Pour the filling over the pre-baked shortbread crust, spreading it evenly.
2. Arrange the sliced peaches on top of the filling in a decorative pattern.

Step 5: Bake

1. Return the pan to the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.
2. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.

Step 6: Serve

1. Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
2. Cut into squares and serve. Optionally, garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

(Approximate values based on 9 servings)

• Calories: 270 kcal
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 18g
• Sodium: 100mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use canned or frozen peaches?

• Yes, canned or frozen peaches can be used if fresh peaches are unavailable. Drain canned peaches well, and if using frozen peaches, thaw and pat them dry before using.

2. How do I know when the brown butter is ready?

• Brown butter is ready when it takes on a golden-brown color and has a nutty aroma. Watch closely, as it can go from golden to burnt quickly.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

• Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for both the crust and the filling.

4. Why is my shortbread crust crumbly?

• Make sure to press the crust mixture firmly into the pan before baking. If it’s too dry, add a tiny bit more butter to help it hold together.

5. What other fruits can I use?

• Apricots, plums, or nectarines are great substitutes. Berries like raspberries or blueberries also complement the brown butter flavor.

Tips for Making the Perfect Peach Brown Butter Bars

1. Use Ripe Peaches: Ripe peaches add natural sweetness and a soft texture. Look for peaches that are slightly soft to the touch.
2. Keep the Butter Cold for the Crust: Cold butter is essential to achieving a flaky, tender crust. For best results, use butter straight from the fridge.
3. Make the Brown Butter Carefully: Brown butter adds a unique depth of flavor, but it’s easy to burn. Stir continuously and keep an eye on the color.
4. Cut Bars After Cooling: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to prevent crumbling.
5. Experiment with Spices: Adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling can enhance the flavor and add a warm, cozy note.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Enjoy them chilled or at room temperature.
2. Freezing: These bars freeze well. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
3. Reheating: For a warm treat, reheat individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

Conclusion

Peach Brown Butter Bars with Shortbread Crust offer a delicious way to enjoy seasonal peaches in a rich, buttery dessert. With a tender shortbread base, sweet brown butter filling, and slices of juicy peaches, these bars are a delightful combination of flavors and textures. This dessert is versatile enough to be enjoyed on its own, paired with coffee or tea, or dressed up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.