Peach Squares

Peach Squares are a delicious alternative to the classic fruit tart, perfect for a snack or to conclude a summer meal. Here’s how to prepare them.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe peaches
• 250 g of all-purpose flour
• 125 g of cold butter, cubed
• 125 g of sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1 pinch of salt
• Powdered sugar (for decorating)

Preparation

1. Start by preparing the shortcrust pastry: in a large bowl, pour the sifted flour, baking powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Briefly mix these dry ingredients.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter and start to work the mixture with your fingertips until you get a sandy consistency.
3. Make a well in the center of the flour and add the whole egg and egg yolk. Quickly work the ingredients until you get a smooth, homogeneous dough ball.
4. Wrap the shortcrust pastry in cling film and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. In the meantime, peel the peaches, remove the stones and cut them into not too thick slices.
6. Preheat the oven to 180 °C (356 °F).
7. Roll out the shortcrust pastry into a sheet about half a centimeter thick and line a previously buttered and floured rectangular baking pan. Prick the base with the tines of a fork.
8. Arrange the peach slices on top of the pastry in an orderly manner, creating a pattern of your choice.
9. Lightly sprinkle with some extra sugar if you desire more sweetness.
10. Bake in the oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and the peaches are soft.
11. Let the peach squares cool before cutting them and dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Curiosity

These delightful squares can be personalized with various spices, such as cinnamon or vanilla, to enhance the flavor of the peaches. Additionally, you can enrich the recipe with hazelnut or almond nibs on top of the peaches before baking to add crunchiness and flavor.