Nectarines or peaches — that is the question. In the south, peaches reign, and a nectarine may be regarded as a peach without fuzz! They do have similar tastes and can be interchanged in recipes. However, to some, nectarines are best for baking with their smooth ruby red skin color that does not have to be peeled, increasing dietary fiber and phytonutrients. The color, texture, and flavor of caramelized nectarines are enhanced by the lemon in these delicious and nutritious bars. Just in time for Mother’s Day!
Nutrition information for nectarines.
Nectarine Lemon Bars
Makes 20 servings
Ingredients:
Crust
1 1/2 cups all- purpose flour
2/3 cup powdered sugar
3/4 cup European butter (like Kerry Gold), cold and cubed. Extra for greasing the dish.
Filling
4 nectarines with the skin, cut into 1/4-inch thick slices
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon European butter
6 eggs, at room temperature
1 3/4 cup sugar
1 cup fresh lemon juice, at room temperature
1/3 cup flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Grease a glass baking dish (9 x 13 inch) with butter
2. For the crust, whisk together the flour and powdered sugar. Cut in the cold, cubed butter with a pastry cutter, a food processor or crumble with your fingers.
3. Press into the bottom of the greased dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
4. While the crust is baking, toss the nectarines with the 1 tablespoon of sugar. Melt the 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the nectarines and toss them around to
coat. Cook in a single layer for about three to five minutes, or until golden spots appear. Flip and let cook for another three minutes, until slightly golden. Set aside.
5. Whisk the eggs, sugar and lemon juice together. Add the flour a little at a time and whisk until no longer clumpy.
6. Pour the filling over the hot, prepared crust. Arrange the nectarine slices on top of the filling. Bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until center is no longer jiggly.
7. Refrigerate for at least two hours, or until chilled. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve.
Adapted from aducksoven.com.
