gluten free vegan peach crumb bars

Peach cobbler, peach crumble, peach crisp… there are many names for these delicious gluten free vegan peach crumb bars. Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or simply a sweet treat at home, these bars are packed with fresh peaches and topped with a crumbly oat mixture. They bring together the sweetness of ripe peaches and the crunch of a delightful topping, making them a hit for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dessert in no time.
• Fresh Flavors: The combination of ripe peaches and aromatic spices creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
• Vegan and Gluten-Free: These bars cater to various dietary needs without sacrificing taste or texture.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them warm with dairy-free ice cream or chilled as a refreshing snack.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week or share with friends.

Tools and Preparation

To make your gluten free vegan peach crumb bars, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan
• Parchment paper or nonstick cooking spray
• Mixing bowls
• Fork
• Sifter

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: A sturdy baking pan ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden crust.
• Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls allows better mixing of ingredients without cross-contamination.
• Fork: Ideal for blending the crumb topping ingredients together to create a uniform texture.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 4-5 ripe peaches (peeled and diced)
– 1/3 cup cane sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch or tapioca starch
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon orange juice
– 1 1/4 cups Sarah’s gluten free flour blend (or your favorite all-purpose gluten-free flour blend)
– 1 cup gluten free quick oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup cane sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 6 tablespoons coconut oil (solid)
– 2 tablespoons So Delicious unsweetened coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup

How to Make gluten free vegan peach crumb bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 C). Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or spraying it with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Peaches

1. Peel, pit, and dice the peaches into small pieces.
2. In a large bowl, gently mix together the diced peaches, cane sugar, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, and orange juice. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.

Step 3: Make the Crumb Topping

1. In another bowl, sift together Sarah’s gluten free flour blend, gluten free quick oats, brown sugar, additional cane sugar, and sea salt.
2. Add solid coconut oil, pure maple syrup, and unsweetened coconut milk to the dry mixture.
3. Blend using a fork until all ingredients are well mixed.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

1. Spread about two-thirds of the oat mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Press it down firmly into the bottom.
2. Top with an even layer of the peach mixture, including its juices.
3. Finally, sprinkle the remaining oat crumble over the peaches.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 40–45 minutes or until the peaches are bubbly and the crumble is golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow to cool in the pan before slicing into bars. Serve warm or at room temperature as desired. Enjoy these delightful gluten free vegan peach crumb bars!

How to Serve gluten free vegan peach crumb bars

Serving gluten free vegan peach crumb bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this sweet treat.

A la Mode

• Serve warm with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream for a classic combination that amplifies the flavors of the peaches.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• Enhance the sweetness by drizzling pure maple syrup over the bars just before serving. This adds a rich, caramel-like flavor.

With Fresh Mint

• Garnish each slice with fresh mint leaves for a refreshing contrast to the sweet and buttery crumb topping.

Accompanied by Coconut Whipped Cream

• Pair your bars with light coconut whipped cream for a creamy and delightful finish that complements the peach filling nicely.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange several pieces on a dessert platter with other treats. This makes for an appealing presentation at gatherings and parties.

How to Perfect gluten free vegan peach crumb bars

To achieve the best texture and flavor in your gluten free vegan peach crumb bars, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe peaches: Selecting ripe peaches ensures maximum sweetness and juiciness, enhancing the overall flavor of the bars.

• Use cold coconut oil: Make sure your coconut oil is solid when mixing. This helps create a crumbly texture rather than a greasy one.

• Don’t skip the orange juice: The acidity from orange juice brightens up the flavors of the peaches and balances sweetness.

• Let them cool completely: Allowing your bars to cool in the pan helps them set properly, making slicing easier without falling apart.

• Adjust sugar levels: Depending on your taste preference and ripeness of peaches, feel free to tweak sugar amounts to suit your liking.

Best Side Dishes for gluten free vegan peach crumb bars

Pairing side dishes with gluten free vegan peach crumb bars can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the richness of the bars.
2. Coconut Yogurt Parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and berries for a satisfying complement that adds crunch.
3. Chilled Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade provides a tangy contrast that cleanses the palate beautifully.
4. Savory Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with vegetables creates a savory balance against the sweetness of dessert.
5. Roasted Nuts: Serve spiced or candied nuts as a crunchy snack alongside for extra texture and flavor contrast.
6. Herb-Infused Water: Offering infused water (like cucumber or mint) keeps it light and refreshing while enhancing hydration during dessert time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making gluten free vegan peach crumb bars, it’s easy to overlook some key aspects. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Ignoring Peach Ripeness: Using unripe peaches can lead to a tart flavor. Always choose ripe, sweet peaches for the best results.
• Overmixing the Crust: Overmixing can make the crust tough. Mix just until combined for a tender crumble texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin your bars. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Cutting into warm bars can make them fall apart. Allow them to cool completely for easier slicing.
• Using Different Flour Blends: Not all gluten-free flours behave the same. Stick with a tried-and-true blend for consistent results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing gluten free vegan peach crumb bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating gluten free vegan peach crumb bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about gluten free vegan peach crumb bars.

Can I use frozen peaches for gluten free vegan peach crumb bars?

Yes, you can use frozen peaches. Just thaw and drain excess liquid before mixing them with other ingredients.

How do I make these bars sweeter?

Feel free to adjust the sugar according to your taste preferences or add more maple syrup for natural sweetness.

Can I substitute coconut oil?

Yes, you can use other solid fats like vegan butter or margarine if you prefer.

What if I don’t have quick oats?

Regular rolled oats will work too; just pulse them in a blender briefly for a finer texture.

Final Thoughts

These gluten free vegan peach crumb bars are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize the recipe by adding nuts or different fruits, making it perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to try out this delightful dessert!