Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These No-Bake Peaches and Cream Bars are the perfect summer dessert—refreshing, light, and packed with the sweet flavor of fresh peaches. The creamy filling is smooth and velvety, paired with a crunchy, buttery graham cracker crust. What makes these bars so amazing is that they require no baking, making them an easy and quick treat for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the oven. With just a few ingredients, this no-bake dessert comes together effortlessly, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering or family event!
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced (or canned peaches, drained and chopped)
- 1/4 cup peach preserves or peach jam (optional, for extra peach flavor)
For topping (optional):
- Fresh peach slices or diced peaches for garnish
- Whipped cream for serving
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined and resembles wet sand.
- Press the Crust: Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish (or a similar-sized dish). Use the back of a spoon to press it down evenly, creating a solid crust. Place the dish in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling.
- Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until the mixture thickens and becomes fluffy.
- Add the Peaches: Gently fold the diced peaches into the cream cheese mixture. If you want to enhance the peach flavor, add the peach preserves or jam to the mixture and stir until combined.
- Assemble the Bars: Remove the crust from the refrigerator and spread the peach and cream filling evenly over the crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
- Chill: Refrigerate the bars for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set.
- Serve: Once the bars are set, cut them into squares and garnish with fresh peach slices or diced peaches and a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 9-12 bars.
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Chill time: 4 hours (or overnight)
- Total time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Variations
- Berry Version: Swap the peaches for fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a different fruit flavor.
- Peach and Mango: Add diced mango to the filling along with the peaches for a tropical twist.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free graham crackers to make the crust, or substitute with crushed gluten-free cookies.
- Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream for a vegan-friendly option.
- Extra Crunch: Add chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, to the graham cracker crust for added texture and flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They should stay firm and creamy.
- Freezing: You can freeze the bars for up to 1 month. Just be sure to wrap them tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
FAQs
Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?
Yes, canned peaches work well. Just make sure to drain them thoroughly and chop them into small pieces before using them in the filling.
Can I use a different crust besides graham crackers?
Yes, you can use crushed vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or even crushed pretzels for a salty-sweet crust alternative.
How do I know when the bars are ready to serve?
The bars should be firm to the touch and set after chilling. If the filling is too soft, it may need a little more time in the refrigerator.
Can I add whipped cream to the filling?
Yes, you can fold some whipped cream into the peach and cream filling for a lighter texture and added richness. Just make sure to fold gently so you don’t deflate the whipped cream.
Can I make these bars in advance?
Yes, these bars are great for making ahead of time. They need a few hours to set, so making them the day before you want to serve them is a great option.
Can I use a different type of jam?
Yes, you can use any fruit jam or preserves, but peach preserves pair best with the peaches in this recipe. You can also omit the jam for a more subtle peach flavor.
Conclusion
These No-Bake Peaches and Cream Bars are a refreshing and delicious dessert perfect for warm weather. With their creamy filling, crunchy graham cracker crust, and fresh peaches, they make for a delightful treat that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a summer get-together, enjoying a family dinner, or just craving something sweet, these bars are sure to impress with their fresh flavors and light, creamy texture. Enjoy them as a simple dessert or a fun snack on a hot day!
Print
No-Bake Peaches and Cream Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 9 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These No-Bake Peaches and Cream Bars are a delightful summer dessert made with a buttery graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake-like filling, and a sweet peach topping. Easy to assemble and perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 cups fresh or canned sliced peaches (drained if using canned)
- 2 tablespoons peach preserves or jam (optional, for extra peach flavor)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until evenly combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased or parchment-lined 8×8-inch baking dish. Chill in the fridge while preparing the filling.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and fluffy.
- Spread the cream filling evenly over the chilled crust.
- Top with sliced peaches. If using peach preserves, gently warm and drizzle over the top.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until set. Slice into bars and serve cold.
Notes
- Use fresh ripe peaches for best flavor, but canned peaches work well too.
- Chill overnight for cleaner slices and firmer texture.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the peaches for a warm spice twist.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg