Discover the Joy of Baking Classic Nectarine Bars Today!

When the summer sun is shining and you’re craving a sweet treat, look no further than these delectable Classic Nectarine Bars. Featuring a buttery crumb crust and a luscious nectarine filling, these bars are the epitome of seasonal indulgence. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these crowd-pleasing desserts that will have your friends and family raving.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Classic Nectarine Bars

The beauty of Classic Nectarine Bars lies in their straightforward ingredient list. You’ll need just a handful of pantry staples to create this irresistible summer dessert:

• 3 cups regular flour
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cold unsalted butter (cubed)
• 1 large egg (lightly whisked)

For the filling, you’ll need:

• 5 cups nectarines, sliced (approx. 4–6 large nectarines)
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons cornflour
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla essence

The combination of sweet nectarines, warm spices, and a buttery crust creates a flavor profile that’s simply irresistible. Feel free to experiment with different fruit varieties, such as peaches or plums, to put your own spin on this classic recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Get ready to bake up a batch of these Classic Nectarine Bars in no time:

1. Preheat Oven: To 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. Make the Crust: In a large bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, white sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cut in cold butter with a pastry cutter or fork until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add egg and mix until crumbly.
3. Press Crust: Press half of the crumb mixture into the prepared baking dish to form the base.
4. Prepare Filling: In another bowl, toss sliced nectarines with sugar, cinnamon, cornflour, lemon juice, and vanilla essence until well coated.
5. Assemble: Spread nectarine mixture evenly over the crust. Sprinkle remaining crumb mixture over the top.
6. Bake: Bake for 45–50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
7. Cool & Serve: Let cool completely before slicing into bars. Serve and enjoy this fruity summer treat!

Tips for Perfecting Your Nectarine Bars

To ensure your Classic Nectarine Bars turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose Ripe Nectarines: Look for nectarines that are soft to the touch and bursting with juicy sweetness. Avoid hard, unripe fruit, as it won’t provide the same level of flavor.
• Don’t Overmix the Crust: Be gentle when combining the crust ingredients to prevent the gluten from developing too much, resulting in a tough texture.
• Evenly Distribute the Filling: Spread the nectarine mixture across the crust in an even layer to ensure each bite is perfectly balanced.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Resist the temptation to slice into the bars right out of the oven. Allowing them to cool fully will help the filling set and the crust firm up, making for clean, neat slices.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Keep any uneaten bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Nutritional Information

Indulging in Classic Nectarine Bars can be a guilt-free pleasure, as they’re packed with the goodness of fresh fruit. Each serving contains:

• Calories: 325
• Total Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 31g
• Protein: 4g

The nectarines provide a boost of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making these bars a healthier dessert option. For those with dietary restrictions, you can explore substitutions like gluten-free flour or a sugar alternative to customize the recipe to your needs.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

While the Classic Nectarine Bars are a summer staple, you can easily put your own spin on this recipe:

• Fruit Variations: Swap out nectarines for peaches, plums, or a combination of stone fruits for a delightful twist.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair the bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. They also make a great accompaniment to a cup of coffee or tea.
• Presentation: For a more elegant dessert, consider cutting the bars into smaller squares and serving them on a platter. You can also dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with a light caramel sauce.

FAQs About Classic Nectarine Bars

What two fruits are crossed to make a nectarine? Nectarines are a hybrid fruit, created by crossing a peach with a plum.

What pairs well with nectarines? Nectarines are wonderfully complemented by flavors like cinnamon, vanilla, and lemon. They also pair beautifully with other stone fruits, such as peaches and plums.

What is a cross between a peach and a nectarine? A nectarine is the result of crossing a peach with a plum. The smooth, fuzz-free skin and juicy flesh of a nectarine are what distinguish it from a peach.

Can I freeze nectarines raw? Yes, you can absolutely freeze nectarines raw. Simply wash, pit, and slice the nectarines, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the slices to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 12 months.

Conclusion: Enjoying Classic Nectarine Bars

When the summer sun is shining and you’re craving a sweet, fruity treat, Classic Nectarine Bars are the perfect indulgence. With their buttery crust and juicy nectarine filling, these bars are sure to delight your taste buds and transport you to a sunny, carefree summer day. Whether you’re serving them at a backyard BBQ or enjoying them as a cozy weekend dessert, these bars are a must-try summer recipe that’s sure to become a new family favorite.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Raspberry Crumble Bars
• Salted Caramel Apple Pie Bars
• Carrot Cake Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

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