Creating Heavenly Summer Peach Bars is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps for a perfect batch:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing for some overhang.

2. Prepare the Peaches: Peel and slice the fresh peaches. In a bowl, mix the peach slices with lemon juice and optional ground cinnamon. Set aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, and then add the vanilla extract, mixing well until combined.

5. Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

6. Spread the Dough: Transfer two-thirds of the dough into the prepared baking pan, pressing it evenly along the bottom to form the crust.

7. Add Peaches: Evenly distribute the sliced peaches over the crust, spreading them out.

8. Top with Remaining Dough: Crumble the remaining one-third of the dough on top of the peach layer, creating a rustic finish.

9. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

10. Cool Down: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes. Use the parchment overhang to lift out the bars and transfer them to a cooling rack.

11. Slice and Dust: Once completely cooled, slice into squares and dust with powdered sugar if desired.

With these straightforward steps, you’ll have delicious Heavenly Summer Peach Bars ready to impress!