Nectarine-Peach Oatmeal Cookie Bars

There’s something truly special about the combination of juicy nectarines and sweet peaches nestled right inside a hearty oatmeal cookie bar. These Nectarine-Peach Oatmeal Cookie Bars strike the perfect balance between chewy, fruity, and lightly spiced, making them an ideal treat for any time of day. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome breakfast option or a delightful afternoon snack, these bars offer a fresh twist on classic oatmeal cookies that you’re going to love. Plus, with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, they’re easy enough for a weeknight bake but impressive enough to share with guests.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you’ve ever wished for a dessert that feels both indulgent and nourishing, Nectarine-Peach Oatmeal Cookie Bars are the answer. The rolled oats provide a satisfying chew and texture, while the cinnamon adds a warm spice that complements the natural sweetness of the stone fruits. Unlike traditional oatmeal cookies, these bars are packed with fresh diced nectarines and peaches, creating juicy pockets of flavor in every bite.

What makes this recipe even more irresistible is how versatile it is. You can customize it with nuts, swap fruit combinations, or even turn it into a grab-and-go breakfast option. Plus, the bars bake up moist and tender with a golden crust on top, making them just as beautiful as they are delicious.

If you love recipes that showcase seasonal fruit in creative ways, you might also enjoy exploring Nectarine Peach Jalapeno Quick Jam—a tangy-sweet spread that’s fantastic on toast or swirled into yogurt.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup diced nectarines (about 1 large nectarine)
• 1 cup diced peaches (about 1 large peach)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

How To Make Nectarine-Peach Oatmeal Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal. This will help your bars come out cleanly and hold their shape beautifully.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk these together until evenly blended. This mixture forms the base that will give your bars a wonderful texture and flavor.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a separate large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter with the brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes on medium speed.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here, as you want to keep the batter tender.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry oat mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just incorporated. The batter will be thick and slightly crumbly.

Step 6: Fold in Fruit and Nuts

Gently fold in the diced nectarines, peaches, and chopped nuts if using. The fresh fruit adds moisture and bursts of flavor, so be careful not to overmix and break up the pieces.

Step 7: Bake

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into squares. This helps them set perfectly and hold together when you cut them.

Expert Tips

• Use ripe nectarines and peaches for the best natural sweetness and juiciness.
• If you prefer a softer texture, reduce the baking time by a few minutes and check frequently.
• For a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or pecans without affecting the overall flavor.
• To prevent the bars from sticking, line the pan with parchment paper and leave an overhang for easy lifting.
• Chilling the batter for 15 minutes before baking can help the bars hold their shape better.
• Try adding a sprinkle of coarse sugar on top before baking for a subtle crunch and sparkle.
• These bars pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee for a delicious snack break.

Variations and Customizations

• Fruit swaps: Substitute nectarines and peaches with plums, apricots, or berries for a different fruity profile.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth and complexity.
• Add-ins: Mix in dark chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or dried cranberries for added texture and flavor.
• Gluten-free option: Use certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
• Make it vegan: Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) instead of the egg.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Nectarine-Peach Oatmeal Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to a week. If you want to save them for later, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave before enjoying.

FAQ

Can I use frozen nectarines and peaches in this recipe?

Yes, frozen nectarines and peaches can be used if fresh ones aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before folding them into the batter to prevent sogginess.

What if I don’t have rolled oats? Can I use quick oats?

You can substitute quick oats, but the texture will be softer and less chewy. Rolled oats provide the best bite and structure for these bars.

Are these bars suitable for breakfast?

Absolutely! Thanks to the oats and fresh fruit, these bars make a wholesome and satisfying breakfast or snack option.

Can I double the recipe to make a larger batch?

Yes, doubling the ingredients and baking in a 9×13-inch pan will work well. Just check the bars a few minutes earlier to avoid overbaking.

Conclusion

Nectarine-Peach Oatmeal Cookie Bars offer a delightful way to enjoy the natural sweetness of summer stone fruits combined with the comforting texture of oatmeal and cinnamon. They are simple to make, versatile, and perfect for any occasion—from breakfast on the go to a sweet treat after dinner. Whether you’re a fan of classic oatmeal cookies or looking to experiment with fresh fruit in your baking, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. For more fresh and fruity ideas, be sure to check out Blueberry Peach Refrigerator Oat Cups, another fantastic way to enjoy oats and stone fruits together. Happy baking!

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