Peach Bar Cookie Cups

Introduction:

These Peach Bar Cookie Cups are a delightful twist on classic peach pie, combining buttery cookie cups with a sweet, cinnamon-spiced peach filling. Perfect for summer or any time you crave a sweet, fruity dessert, these cookie cups are easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Cups:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Peach Filling:

• 2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced (or use canned, drained)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For Topping (optional):

• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions

1. Prepare the Cookie Dough:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin or line with paper liners.
   • In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
2. Form the Cookie Cups:
   • Scoop about 1 1/2 tablespoons of dough into each muffin cup. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to press the dough down and up the sides to form a cup shape.
3. Prepare the Peach Filling:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the diced peaches, 1/4 cup sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Stir until the peaches are well coated and the mixture is evenly combined.
4. Fill the Cookie Cups:
   • Spoon the peach filling into each cookie cup, filling them generously.
5. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges of the cookie cups are golden brown and the peaches are tender.
   • Allow the cookie cups to cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Serve:
   • Dust with powdered sugar, and top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
   • Enjoy these delightful Peach Bar Cookie Cups as a handheld taste of summer!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 cookie cups
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
• Total Time: 30-33 minutes

Variations

• Fruit Filling: Swap peaches for other fruits like berries, apples, or pears.
• Spices: Experiment with spices such as nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor profile.
• Add-Ins: Mix in nuts like chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cooled cookie cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to warm them up before serving.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen peaches instead of fresh? Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
2. What if I don’t have a muffin tin? You can use a mini tart pan or silicone muffin molds.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days before baking.
4. How can I make these cookie cups gluten-free? Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
5. Can I use a different type of sugar? Yes, you can use brown sugar or coconut sugar for a different flavor.
6. How do I prevent the cookie cups from sticking to the pan? Grease the pan well or use paper liners to prevent sticking.
7. Can I freeze these cookie cups? Yes, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
8. What if my cookie cups don’t hold their shape? Ensure the dough is pressed firmly into the pan and consider chilling the dough before baking.
9. Can I make these without the topping? Yes, they are delicious on their own, but the topping adds a nice touch.
10. How do I adjust the recipe for a different pan size? Adjust baking times and the quantity of filling based on the size of the pan used.

Conclusion

Peach Bar Cookie Cups offer a delightful and fun twist on traditional peach desserts. With a buttery, cookie crust and a juicy, spiced peach filling, these treats are perfect for any summer gathering or a simple, sweet indulgence. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re a sure hit with anyone who loves a good dessert.

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