Maple Donut Bars Recipe

Introduction

Maple Donut Bars are a delightful twist on classic donuts, baked in a pan for easy serving. These bars feature warm spices and a rich maple glaze that makes them perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
• Extra maple syrup for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk together until evenly mixed.
3. Step 3: In another bowl, whisk the melted butter, whole milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until smooth.
4. Step 4: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently fold with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined; some lumps are okay.
5. Step 5: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
6. Step 6: Bake for 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the edges are lightly golden.
7. Step 7: Let the bars cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Step 8: To make the glaze, whisk powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon milk in a bowl until smooth.
9. Step 9: Add more milk a little at a time until the glaze coats the back of a spoon but is still pourable.
10. Step 10: Stir in 2 tablespoons of maple syrup for extra flavor.
11. Step 11: Once bars are cooled, place them on a serving platter.
12. Step 12: Drizzle the maple glaze evenly over the bars with a spoon or small spatula.
13. Step 13: Optional: drizzle extra maple syrup on top for added sweetness and presentation.
14. Step 14: Allow the glaze to set for 10-15 minutes before slicing into squares or rectangles.

Tips & Variations

• For a nutty crunch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on the glaze before it sets.
• Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
• Use pure maple syrup for the best authentic flavor; avoid imitation syrups.
• To make smaller servings, use a muffin tin to bake maple donut muffins instead.

Storage

Store the maple donut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave to soften before serving. The glaze may soften when refrigerated but will still taste delicious.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?

All-purpose flour works best for the right texture, but you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if needed. Adjust baking time slightly and check doneness with a toothpick.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and bake the bars a day in advance. Store them covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator, and add the glaze just before serving for the freshest taste.

Maple Donut Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 145 reviews

• Author: Zoe
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 bars 1x

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Description

These Maple Donut Bars offer a delightful twist on the classic donut, baked into an easy-to-make bar format. Featuring a moist, spiced batter enriched with real maple syrup and topped with a smooth maple glaze, these bars deliver a perfect balance of sweetness and warm spice. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent snack, they are simple to prepare and bake in under an hour.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Wet Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup maple syrup

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1–2 tablespoons milk
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup (additional for flavor)

Optional

• Extra maple syrup for drizzling

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well mixed.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, whole milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until smooth and well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredient bowl. Gently fold the mixture with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Some lumps are fine; do not overmix.
5. Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out gently with a spatula.
6. Bake the Bars: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and edges are lightly golden.
7. Cool the Bars: Remove from oven and let the bars cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Prepare Maple Glaze: Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, combine powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon milk. Whisk until smooth.
9. Adjust Glaze Consistency: Add more milk, a little at a time, until glaze reaches a pourable but thick consistency.
10. Add Maple Syrup to Glaze: Stir in an additional 2 tablespoons of maple syrup for enhanced flavor.
11. Glaze the Bars: Once bars are completely cooled, place on a serving platter and drizzle the glaze evenly over the top using a spoon or small spatula.
12. Optional Extra Drizzle: Drizzle extra maple syrup over the glazed bars if desired for added sweetness and a glossy finish.
13. Set the Glaze: Allow the glaze to set for 10-15 minutes before slicing the bars into squares or rectangles.

Notes

• For easier removal, line your baking pan with parchment paper extending over the edges to lift out the bars after baking.
• Do not overmix the batter to keep the bars tender and fluffy.
• If you prefer a stronger maple flavor, increase the maple syrup slightly in the batter or glaze.
• Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
• These bars can be gently reheated in the microwave for a few seconds before serving for a fresh-baked taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: maple donut bars, baked donut bars, maple syrup dessert, spiced breakfast bars, easy maple bars