These nectarine bars are a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of nectarines with a buttery, flaky crust. Perfect for a summer dessert or a sweet snack, these bars are easy to make and bursting with fruity flavor. Enjoy them on their own or serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent treat. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, these nectarine bars are sure to become a favorite recipe in your household.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4-5 ripe nectarines, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cold cubed butter, salt, and vanilla extract. Use your hands or a pastry cutter to mix the ingredients together until they resemble coarse crumbs.
- Press two-thirds of the mixture into the bottom of the greased baking dish to form the crust.
- In a separate bowl, combine the sliced nectarines, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir well to coat the nectarines evenly.
- Spread the nectarine mixture over the crust in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the nectarines. If desired, top with sliced almonds for added crunch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the nectarines are tender.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
- Serve the nectarine bars as a delicious dessert or a sweet snack. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Interesting Facts
Nectarines are a variety of peach with smooth skin, making them easier to eat without peeling.
These bars can be made with other stone fruits like peaches or plums for variation.
The combination of buttery crust and juicy nectarines creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Nectarines are rich in vitamin C and other essential nutrients, making these bars a healthier alternative to store-bought sweets.