Name: Peaches and Cream Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-488399H42M42S
Total time: PT-488399H42M42S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the crust:; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed); 1/4 tsp salt; For the cream filling:; 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; For the topping:; 1–1.5 cups sliced peaches (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen); Optional: cinnamon sugar or apricot glaze for brushing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars are everything you want in a fruity dessert — creamy, soft, slightly tangy, and sweet. The layers are simple but come together beautifully: a tender base, luscious cream filling, and a topping of golden peaches. This make-ahead treat is great for potlucks, family dinners, or just a cozy afternoon pick-me-up. They cut beautifully into squares and are just as delicious cold as they are at room temperature.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:
all-purpose flour
granulated sugar
unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
salt

For the cream filling:
cream cheese (softened)
egg
granulated sugar
vanilla extract

For the topping:
sliced peaches (fresh, canned, or frozen and thawed)
optional: cinnamon sugar or apricot glaze for brushing

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until crumbly.
Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 12–15 minutes until lightly golden.
Meanwhile, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
Spread the cream mixture evenly over the warm crust.
Arrange sliced peaches over the cream layer.
Optional: Sprinkle lightly with cinnamon sugar or brush with apricot glaze for extra shine and flavor.
Bake for another 25–30 minutes until the filling is set and the peaches are lightly golden.
Let cool to room temperature, then chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before slicing.

Servings and timing

Makes 9–12 squares. Prep time is 20 minutes, bake time is 40–45 minutes, plus chilling time of at least 2 hours.

Variations

Berry version: Swap peaches for blueberries, raspberries, or a mix.
Spiced twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream layer.
Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust.
Nutty crust: Mix in finely chopped almonds or pecans for added crunch.
Tropical version: Add a bit of coconut extract to the cream layer and top with mango or pineapple.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a single layer, then store wrapped or in a container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge.
Reheating: Not typically reheated — best served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use canned peaches?

Yes, just drain them well and pat dry to avoid excess moisture in the dessert.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely — they’re best chilled, so making them a day in advance works perfectly.

Do I need to peel fresh peaches?

Peeling is optional. If the skin is thin and soft, you can leave it on for color and texture.

Can I use frozen peaches?

Yes, thaw and drain them first to prevent excess liquid from affecting the filling.

Is this like cheesecake?

The filling is similar to cheesecake but a little lighter. It sets softly and pairs beautifully with the fruit.

Can I make these bars without eggs?

Yes, use an egg replacer like flax egg or a commercial egg substitute for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. You may need to add 5–10 minutes to the baking time.

Can I use a graham cracker crust?

You can, but a shortbread-style crust gives the best contrast in texture to the creamy filling.

How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?

Pre-baking the crust is essential. Make sure it’s set and lightly golden before adding the filling.

Can I use whipped cream cheese?

Block cream cheese works best for stability, but whipped can be used if you reduce baking time slightly.

Conclusion

Peaches and Cream Squares are a classic, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines simplicity and elegance in every bite. With their creamy filling, buttery crust, and bright peach topping, these bars are perfect for any season — especially when you’re craving something fruity, rich, and just a little nostalgic. Make a batch, chill well, and enjoy a slice of sweet comfort.