If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat that combines the flavors of breakfast and dessert, then these Maple Donut Bars are the perfect solution. Soft and cakey, with a delightful maple glaze on top, these bars make for an indulgent morning snack or a comforting dessert. They’re surprisingly simple to make, offering a nostalgic hint that brings to mind a cozy morning at a classic diner or a bakery. By incorporating rich maple flavors and a soft texture, these bars not only please your palate but also fill your kitchen with a sweet aroma that beckons everyone to join in.

Crafting these Maple Donut Bars requires just a handful of ingredients, showing how easy it can be to create homemade goodies right in your own kitchen. This recipe is crafted to delight both novice and experienced bakers, making it an ideal choice for a beginner who wants to impress family and friends with stunning results. Let’s dive into why making these bars is an experience worth savoring!

Why You’ll Love This Maple Donut Bars

Deliciously soft and cakey—perfect for satisfying any sweet craving.
Rich maple glaze provides a luscious finish, making each bite delightful.
Versatile enough for breakfast, dessert, or a savory snack at any time.
Easy to make with straightforward ingredients often found in your pantry.
Can be made ahead of time and frozen for later enjoyment.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before embarking on creating your Maple Donut Bars, it’s crucial to prepare your kitchen space for success. A clean workspace contributes to the overall outcome of your baking adventure. Gather all your ingredients and tools to streamline the process. You’ll need a 9×13-inch baking pan, which can be greased or lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Other essential tools include measuring cups for precise ingredient measurements, a mixing bowl for your wet and dry ingredients, a whisk to combine them thoroughly, and a spatula for spreading the batter evenly in the pan. An oven thermometer can help ensure that your oven is preheated correctly to 350°F (175°C)—the optimal temperature for these delicious bars to bake perfectly.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon maple extract
3/4 cup milk
2 cups powdered sugar (for glaze)
1 teaspoon maple extract (for glaze)
2-3 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
2 tablespoons butter, melted (for glaze)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential for achieving the best rise and texture in your Maple Donut Bars. While the oven heats up, take your 9×13-inch baking pan and coat it with a light layer of non-stick spray or line the bottom with parchment paper. This will ensure that removing the bars from the pan is a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well blended and free of lumps. Setting this dry mixture aside will allow you to focus on creating a beautiful wet mixture.

Step 3: Create the Wet Mixture

In a separate large mixing bowl, beat 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter with 3/4 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup brown sugar until the mixture becomes fluffy and light in texture. This process typically takes a couple of minutes. Next, add in the 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of maple extract, and 3/4 cup of milk. Mix them thoroughly until the mixture is completely smooth, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Now it’s time to combine the two mixtures. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense bars. Once combined, you’ll have a creamy batter ready to be spread in the pan.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared 9×13-inch baking pan. Using a spatula, spread it evenly and smooth out the top. Place the pan in the oven and bake for approximately 22–26 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, your bars are ready to be removed from the oven.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

While the bars cool slightly in the pan, whisk together 2 cups of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of maple extract, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, and 2-3 tablespoons of milk in a bowl until you create a smooth glaze. The consistency should be pourable but not too runny.

Step 7: Glaze the Bars

Once the bars have cooled just enough to handle but are still warm, pour the glaze over the top. Spread it gently with a spatula to ensure every corner is covered. Allow the glaze to set for a few moments before slicing into bars.

Variations

Protein: For a heartier version, consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for a crunchy texture.
Vegetables: You could integrate shredded carrots or zucchini for added moisture and nutrients.
Spices: Cinnamon or nutmeg could elevate the flavor profile, making it more autumnal.

Cooking Notes

Use high-quality maple extract, as it greatly enhances the overall flavor of the bars.
Allow the bars to cool slightly before glazing to prevent the icing from running off.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
You can freeze the unglazed bars for up to three months; just glaze them after thawing for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Maple Donut Bars with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
They also go well with fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced breakfast.

Tips

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
If you prefer a thicker glaze, simply increase the amount of powdered sugar in your glaze mixture.
Dust with a little extra powdered sugar just before serving for a beautiful finish.
Try drizzling a bit of melted chocolate over the glaze for an indulgent twist!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 200 per bar
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 180mg

FAQs

Can I use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use self-rising flour, but omit the baking powder and salt as they are already included in self-rising flour.

How do I store leftover Maple Donut Bars?

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, making sure it contains a binder for the best texture.

What can I use instead of maple extract?

If maple extract isn’t available, you can use vanilla extract, but the flavor will be different.

Conclusion

There you have it! Delicious, easy-to-make Maple Donut Bars that can transform your breakfast or snack time into a delightful experience. With their soft, cakey texture and sweet, rich glaze, these bars are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations to make this recipe your own! We’d love to hear how your Maple Donut Bars turn out, so please leave a comment, share your experience, and let us know what twists you’ve added to this lovely treat!