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Plum Bars Recipe

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4.2 from 11 reviews

Deliciously fruity and buttery plum bars featuring a tender crust and a sweet plum filling, perfect for a seasonal dessert or snack.

Ingredients

For the crust:

  • 1 ¾ cup all purpose flour
  • ⅔ cup sugar
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup butter, cold
  • 1 egg, whisked
  • 2 tbsp milk

For the filling:

  • 4 plums, diced small
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 2 tbsp all purpose flour
  • ½ tsp vanilla bean paste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400° F (204° C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
  2. Prepare the crust mixture: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Grate the cold butter directly into the bowl using a cheese grater. Use your hands to gently combine until the mixture resembles small pebbles. Then add the whisked egg and milk, stirring until the dough comes together evenly.
  3. Mix the plum filling: In a separate medium bowl, combine the diced plums with sugar, flour, and vanilla bean paste. Stir this mixture until the plums are evenly coated and the filling is well combined.
  4. Assemble the bars: Press two-thirds of the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan using your hands. Carefully spread the plum filling evenly over the crust layer. Finally, sprinkle the remaining crust mixture evenly on top to create a crumbly topping.
  5. Bake the plum bars: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-32 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the top is set. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature before slicing.
  6. Serve: Once cooled, slice the bars into squares and serve as a delightful dessert or snack.

Notes

  • Cold butter is key to creating a tender, crumbly crust that holds together well.
  • Using parchment paper in the baking dish makes it easier to lift out the bars for cutting and serving.
  • Choose ripe but firm plums for the best texture and flavor.
  • These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
  • Optionally, sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top before serving for added sweetness and presentation.