Introduction

Maple Donut Bars are a delightful treat that combines the soft texture of classic cake donuts with a rich maple glaze. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, these bars are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings.

Three golden brown rectangular cakes are stacked on a white plate with a speckled pattern, each topped with thick, creamy white icing that drips down the sides. Small brown berries and bright green mint leaves are scattered on the icing, adding color contrast. In the blurred background, there is a white cup with green around the rim and handle filled with coffee, placed on a matching saucer. The surface beneath is a white marbled texture. 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. Make sure the butter is slightly cooled to avoid cooking the eggs.
Step 3: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. A few streaks of flour are okay—do not overmix.
Step 4: Preheat your 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, until a wooden skewer inserted in the center comes out clean and the edges are golden brown.
Step 7: Let the donut bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Sift the powdered sugar into a large bowl to remove any lumps.
Step 9: Add the maple syrup, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the powdered sugar.
Step 10: Whisk all glaze ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Adjust milk or powdered sugar to reach your desired consistency.
Step 11: Once the bars are completely cool, pour the maple glaze evenly over the top.
Step 12: Immediately sprinkle with your choice of chopped pecans, sprinkles, or crumbled bacon if desired.
Step 13: Allow the glaze to set for 30 minutes to an hour before cutting.
Step 14: Cut the donut bars into squares or rectangles and serve.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, use half-and-half instead of milk in the glaze.
Substitute the nuts with toasted coconut flakes for a different texture.
If you prefer a thicker glaze, reduce the milk slightly or add more powdered sugar.
Store glaze-topped bars in the refrigerator to keep the glaze firm, especially in warm climates.

Storage

Store maple donut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to 5 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave if desired, but note that the glaze may soften. To maintain glaze firmness, store separately or re-glaze after warming.

How to Serve

A stack of three rectangular fried dough pieces, each golden brown with a crispy, sugared texture, layered one on top of the other. Each dough piece is generously covered with a thick, creamy beige glaze that drips down the sides. The top layer is decorated with small, colorful round sprinkles in red, white, blue, yellow, and orange, adding a playful touch. The stack sits on a white plate with a blue speckled pattern, placed on a white marbled surface. In the blurred background, two white coffee cups are visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar per cup to mimic buttermilk’s acidity, which helps the bars rise and stay tender.

How do I prevent the glaze from becoming runny?

Ensure the donut bars are completely cool before glazing and adjust the milk amount in the glaze to create a thicker consistency. Allow the glaze to set for at least 30 minutes before serving for best results.