Peach Squares
A refreshing layered dessert with creamy peach filling, crunchy graham cracker crust, and fruity Jell-O topping—perfect for summer gatherings and fruit lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine and add to graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
- Press the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan to form the crust.
- Beat softened cream cheese, sugar, and milk until smooth.
- Fold in Cool Whip or whipped cream.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the graham cracker crust.
- Top with drained sliced peaches.
- Dissolve peach Jell-O in boiling water.
- Add cold water to the Jell-O mixture.
- When the Jell-O starts to thicken, pour it over the peaches.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat Cool Whip. If you don't have graham cracker crumbs, crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits can work well as a substitute. To enhance the flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Chill the dessert longer for better texture, especially on warm days.
Serving Suggestions
Serve peach squares chilled for a refreshing dessert. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. For a delightful brunch option, consider serving alongside a fruit salad or the Cherry Burst Pie(Icebox) for a colorful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the Jell-O begins to separate, gently stir before serving to blend the layers again. Avoid freezing, as the texture may be affected once thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peach Squares contains roughly 155 calories, with 2g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh peaches can be used for a fresher taste. Just ensure they are ripe and slice them thinly. You may need to adjust the sweetness based on the ripeness of the peaches.
What can I substitute for Cool Whip?
You can substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream. Just beat heavy cream with a bit of sugar until soft peaks form. This will give a fresher flavor and a creamier texture to your peach squares.
How can I make it more visually appealing?
To enhance the visual appeal, consider garnishing the top with extra peach slices or a sprinkle of toasted coconut. A drizzle of caramel sauce can also elevate the presentation and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).