We all need a little help getting through the middle of the week slump. I think this recipe will help :)

I was actually not planning on baking anything yesterday. It has been about 900 degrees outside this week so my goal was to avoid turning on the oven. I went a little crazy buying peaches at the farmer's market this weekend and ended up with 8 (btw, my husband doesn't really even like peaches). They looked so good, I just couldn't resist buying them! Needless to say, I have been eating peaches every day.

I thought about what I could make that would use up some of these peaches. I had a few things in mind, but ended up settling on an oatmeal bake. I haven't made an oatmeal bake in such a long time! Forget the hot weather and my original plan to not turn the oven on...I wanted an oatmeal bake.

It turned out delightful! I used ingredients I already had (and almost always have) on hand. The juicy burst of peach lightens up the bake and still makes it acceptable on hot summer days. I even had some left over Vanilla Coconut Milk Ice Cream from this weekend. Oatmeal bake a la mode! It would also be fabulous with a dollop of fresh Vanilla Coconut Whipped Cream. Mmm - I will definitely remember that for next time.

You can make this with any combination of nuts and fruit you like, the possibilities are endless! I love that this bake is sweetened with dates and peaches, and only a small amount of maple syrup. It's a bake that tastes like dessert but is healthy enough to have as a nourishing breakfast or snack.

Now you have something to look forward to making this week. See...I told you this recipe would help you get through the mid week slump ;)

Peach Oatmeal Squares

A nourishing morning meal, snack, or dessert that will satisfy your appetite and fuel your body. These oatmeal squares are made with real food ingredients and bursting with juicy fruit flavor!

|Makes 9|

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
4 chopped dates (1/4 cup)
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
1 Tbsp ground flaxseed
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp cinnamon
1-2 tsp maple syrup (or honey)
1 cup almond milk
2 peaches, peeled and diced
1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees (F). Line an 8x8" or 9x9" pan with parchment paper.
Combine dry ingredients (oats through cinnamon) in a large bowl. In a medium bowl combine the wet ingredients (maple syrup through vanilla extract).
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until thoroughly combined. Spread the mixture into the prepared pan. Bake for 25 minutes.
Remove from oven and let cool for 10-15 minutes. Remove from pan by lifting parchment paper. Cut into 9 squares and enjoy!

Notes

*If you don't prefer to use maple syrup or honey, use 1 tsp stevia.

xoxo,

Lauren