I recently found myself reminiscing about the warm summer days of my childhood. Those days were filled with family gatherings, laughter, and of course, delicious food. One of my favorite treats was my grandmother’s plum cobbler. It was a sweet and tangy delight that always left me wanting more. Inspired by those memories, I decided to whip up a Plum Cobbler Bars Recipe that captures the essence of that classic dessert but in a fun, portable form.
Why You’ll Love Plum Cobbler Bars Recipe
Plum cobbler bars are not just a dessert; they are a celebration of flavors. They combine the tartness of plums with a buttery, crumbly crust. Each bite is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Plus, they are easy to make and perfect for sharing. Whether it’s a picnic, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, these bars are a hit.
Ingredients for Plum Cobbler Bars Recipe
To make these delicious bars, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you will need:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Plum Filling:
- 4 cups fresh plums, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on plum sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
How to Make Plum Cobbler Bars Recipe
Making these bars is straightforward and fun. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Then, add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
Step 2: Bake the Crust
Press about two-thirds of the dough into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. This will be the base for your bars.
Step 3: Prepare the Plum Filling
While the crust is baking, prepare the plum filling. In a large bowl, combine the sliced plums, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Toss the plums until they are well coated. The cornstarch will help thicken the filling as it cooks.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Once the crust is done, remove it from the oven and pour the plum filling over the baked crust. Crumble the remaining dough over the top of the plums. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Step 5: Cool and Slice
Let the bars cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This will help the filling set up a bit more. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.
Tips for Plum Cobbler Bars Recipe
Here are some tips to ensure your plum cobbler bars turn out perfectly every time:
- Choose Ripe Plums: The best flavor comes from ripe plums. Look for plums that are slightly soft to the touch and fragrant.
- Adjust Sweetness: Depending on the ripeness of your plums, you may want to adjust the sugar in the filling. Taste the plums first and sweeten to your preference.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh butter and eggs will make a noticeable difference in the final product.
- Don’t Skip the Cooling: Allowing the bars to cool completely helps the filling set, making them easier to cut.
Serving Suggestions
These plum cobbler bars are delicious on their own, but there are a few ways to elevate them:
- Serve with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of warm bars is a classic combination.
- Add Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream can add a light and fluffy texture.
- Pair with Coffee or Tea: These bars make for a delightful afternoon snack with your favorite hot beverage.
Storing Plum Cobbler Bars
If you have any leftovers (which is rare), storing them is easy. Here’s how:
- Refrigerate: Place the bars in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze the bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Why Use Plums?
Plums are not only delicious, but they also come with health benefits. They are low in calories and rich in vitamins A and C. They also have antioxidants that can help fight inflammation. Using plums in desserts adds a nutritious twist to your sweet treats.
Variations on Plum Cobbler Bars Recipe
One of the best parts of cooking is experimenting. Here are some variations you can try with this recipe:
- Mixed Fruit Cobbler Bars: Combine plums with other fruits like peaches or cherries for a mixed fruit filling.
- Nutty Crust: Add chopped nuts to the crust for a crunchy texture.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger in the filling for a unique flavor.
Baking these plum cobbler bars is like taking a step back in time, evoking memories of family gatherings and summer picnics. They are a delightful way to enjoy the sweet and tangy flavor of plums in a portable format. I hope you find joy in making and sharing these bars with your loved ones.
Whether you are baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to please. So, roll up your sleeves, grab those plums, and start baking! You won’t regret it.