Easy Peach Bars with Cake Mix Recipe!
Imagine the sun-ripened sweetness of peaches mingling with the comforting familiarity of golden cake. This dessert offers a delightful contrast of textures, where soft, juicy fruit meets a tender, crumbly base. Each bite delivers a burst of summery flavor, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Equipment
- 9x13 inch Baking Pan
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Can Opener (if using canned peaches)
- Oven
- Potholders or Oven Mitts
- Knife and Cutting Board (if using fresh peaches)
- Toothpick or cake tester
Ingredients
- 1 box 15.25 oz yellow cake mix
- cup 1 stick unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 can 29 oz sliced peaches in light syrup, drained
- teaspoon ground cinnamon optional
- cup chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Base: Preheat oven to 350F (175C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan. In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. The mixture will be thick.
- Step 2: Press into Pan: Press approximately two-thirds of the cake mix mixture into the prepared baking pan. Distribute evenly, forming a base layer. This layer doesn't need to be perfect, just relatively even.
- Step 3: Arrange Peaches: Arrange the drained peach slices evenly over the cake mix base. Overlap them slightly to ensure even coverage.
- Step 4: Add Topping (Optional): Sprinkle the ground cinnamon and chopped nuts (if using) over the peaches. This adds flavor and texture. For a more substantial topping, reserve 1 cup of the cake mix mixture and crumble it over the peaches instead of nuts.
- Step 5: Crumble Remaining Mixture: Crumble the remaining one-third of the cake mix mixture evenly over the peach layer. If you reserved 1 cup for a streusel topping, mix it with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle this over the peaches instead.
- Step 6: Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the peaches are bubbly. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean (or with a few moist crumbs).
- Step 7: Cool and Serve: Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This allows the bars to set and prevents them from crumbling. Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Optional Tips: For a richer flavor, use brown butter instead of melted butter. Add a tablespoon of almond extract to the cake mix for a complementary flavor to the peaches. If using fresh peaches, peel and slice them before arranging them on the crust.
Notes
Variations
Peach bars crafted with cake mix are amenable to numerous adaptations, allowing for creative exploration and adherence to dietary needs. The following variations offer suggestions for ingredient swaps, regional twists, and dietary adjustments:
- Ingredient Swaps:
- Fruit: Apricots, plums, or nectarines can substitute peaches, offering different flavor profiles.
- Cake Mix: White, lemon, or spice cake mix provide alternative base flavors.
- Fat: Coconut oil or applesauce can replace melted butter for a healthier option.
- Nuts: Almonds, pecans, or walnuts may be used interchangeably, or omitted altogether for nut allergies.
- Regional Twists:
- Southern Charm: Incorporate a splash of bourbon into the peach mixture for a boozy twist.
- Spiced Delight: Add cardamom or ginger alongside cinnamon for an exotic warmth.
- Dietary Adjustments:
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
- Vegan: Substitute the butter with vegan butter, eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg), and ensure the cake mix is vegan-friendly.
- Lower Sugar: Utilize a reduced-sugar cake mix and opt for fresh peaches rather than those packed in syrup.
Serving Suggestions
Peach bars made with cake mix are versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of settings. Consider the following serving suggestions:
- Warm: Serve slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Casual Gatherings: An ideal dessert for potlucks, barbecues, or family gatherings.
- Elevated Dessert: Accompany with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a sprinkle of chopped nuts for a more sophisticated presentation.
- Snack: Enjoy as a midday treat with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Breakfast/Brunch: Pairs perfectly with yogurt or alongside other breakfast pastries for a brunch spread.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is crucial to maintain the freshness and quality of peach bars made with cake mix. Consider these guidelines:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: For extended storage, freeze individual bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Preventing Soggy Bars: To minimize sogginess, ensure bars are completely cool before storing, and line the container with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned? Yes, fresh peaches are an excellent substitute. Ensure they are ripe but firm, peeled, and sliced before using.
- Question 2: My bars are soggy. What can I do? Ensure the peaches are well-drained, and avoid over-mixing the batter. Consider adding a layer of almond flour to the base to absorb excess moisture.
- Question 3: Can I add a streusel topping? Absolutely. Combine flour, butter, and sugar for a simple streusel and sprinkle over the peaches before baking.
- Question 4: My cake mix requires oil, do I still need to add butter? Yes, you still need to add the amount of butter in the recipe. It’s part of this recipe. You may reduce a little if you concerned.