Peach and Cream Cheese Bars

Peach and cream cheese bars are a heavenly combination of fruity sweetness and creamy richness, perfect for any occasion. These bars are not only delicious but also easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or just want a delightful dessert, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Bars:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 21 ounces peach pie filling

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon almond extract

Directions

1. Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease the Pan: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure the bars don’t stick.

2. Make the Batter

• Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 2 cups of sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in 4 eggs one at a time, then stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
• Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt, mixing until just combined.

3. Spread the Batter

• First Layer: Spread half of the batter mixture evenly into the prepared pan.

4. Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

• Mix Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 egg until smooth.
• Spread Over Batter: Evenly spread the cheesecake mixture over the batter in the pan.

5. Add Peach Filling and Remaining Batter

• Layer Peach Filling: Spoon 21 ounces of peach pie filling over the cheesecake layer.
• Top with Remaining Batter: Add dollops of the remaining batter on top of the peach filling.

6. Bake the Bars

• Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
• Cool: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

7. Prepare the Glaze

• Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of almond extract until smooth.
• Drizzle: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars.

8. Serve and Enjoy

• Cut into Bars: Once the glaze has set, cut into bars and serve.
• Enjoy: Savor the delightful combination of peaches and cream cheese in every bite!

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Calories: 450 kcal per serving
• Servings: Makes 12 bars

These Peach and Cream Cheese Bars are perfect for a sweet treat that’s sure to delight family and friends. Enjoy the rich, fruity flavors in every bite!