Peach Crumb Bars with Rolled Oats

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, sugar, salt, and cinnamon until no lumps remain.
2. Use a pastry cutter to work the cold, cubed butter into the flour mixture until the texture resembles coarse crumbs with a few pea-sized chunks remaining.
3. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper and press approximately two-thirds of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom.
4. Pre-bake the crust at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, then remove and let cool slightly.
5. In a separate bowl, toss the diced peaches with lemon juice and vanilla extract.
6. Stir in the maple syrup, cornstarch, and nutmeg; let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the cornstarch to dissolve.
7. Spread the peach mixture evenly over the pre-baked crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
8. Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the peaches, pressing very lightly.
9. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is mahogany-colored and the filling is bubbling at the edges.
10. Cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into 20 bars.