Introduction

Maple Donut Bars bring the indulgent flavors of classic maple donuts to an easy-to-make bar form. These soft, moist bars are topped with a sweet maple glaze and can be personalized with your favorite toppings for a delightful treat any time of day.

There are three rectangular golden-brown cakes stacked on a white speckled plate, each with a smooth, creamy white icing dripping down the sides. The top two cakes are layered directly on each other, and the bottom cake lies flat on the plate. Small dark brown round nuts and tiny green herb leaves decorate the icing on the top cakes. In the blurred background, a green cup filled with light brown coffee sits on a matching saucer, with a partially visible second plate holding another similarly iced cake. The whole setup is on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
1/4 cup milk (or more, as needed)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Sprinkles (optional)
Crumbled bacon (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg for at least 30 seconds to ensure even distribution.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk the melted butter, sugar, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth, making sure the butter is slightly cooled.
Step 3: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. A few streaks of flour are fine; avoid overmixing.
Step 4: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
Step 6: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted in the center comes out clean and the edges are golden brown.
Step 7: Let the bars cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Sift the powdered sugar into a large bowl to remove lumps.
Step 9: Add maple syrup, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the powdered sugar.
Step 10: Whisk all ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Adjust the milk or powdered sugar to reach your preferred glaze consistency.
Step 11: Once the bars are completely cool, pour the maple glaze evenly over the top.
Step 12: Immediately sprinkle with chopped nuts, sprinkles, or crumbled bacon if desired.
Step 13: Allow the glaze to set for 30 minutes to an hour before cutting.
Step 14: Cut into squares or rectangles and serve.

Tips & Variations

Use buttermilk or add 1 tablespoon lemon juice to 1 cup milk to make a buttermilk substitute.
For a richer flavor, toast chopped nuts before sprinkling.
Add a pinch of cinnamon to the dry ingredients for extra warmth.
Swap maple syrup glaze for a cinnamon glaze by replacing maple syrup with cinnamon-infused milk.

Storage

Store the donut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If refrigerated, allow them to come to room temperature before serving or gently warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. The glaze is best enjoyed fresh but will keep well when stored covered.

How to Serve

A stack of three golden-brown rectangular pastries is shown on a speckled white plate, each piece covered with thick, smooth white icing that drips down the sides. Small green herb leaves and tiny round brown toppings are placed on top of the icing, adding a touch of color. In the background, there is a white cup with a teal saucer filled with coffee, placed on a white marbled surface. The close-up shot highlights the shiny texture of the pastry and the creamy glaze. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder for best results.

Can I use pancake syrup instead of pure maple syrup?

While pancake syrup can be used, pure maple syrup provides the best authentic flavor. If you use pancake syrup, choose one without high fructose corn syrup for a cleaner taste.