Introduction

Maple Donut Bars are a delightful twist on classic donuts, baked in a pan and glazed with a luscious maple syrup icing. Easy to make and perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, these bars combine soft, spiced batter with a rich, flavorful glaze.

Three rectangular golden brown cakes are stacked on a white speckled plate, each covered with a thick, creamy beige glaze that drips down the sides smoothly. Small brown round toppings and tiny green herb leaves are sprinkled on top, adding color and texture contrast. The cakes have a moist and slightly rough surface beneath the glaze, showing their dense texture. In the blurred background, there is a teal coffee cup and saucer on a white marbled surface, creating a cozy setting. 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, granulated sugar, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Make sure the butter is slightly cooled before mixing.
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 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, or until a wooden skewer inserted into 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 before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Sift the powdered sugar into a large bowl to remove 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 as needed for the right consistency.
Step 11: Once the bars are completely cool, pour the maple glaze evenly over the top.
Step 12: Immediately sprinkle with chopped pecans, sprinkles, or crumbled bacon if desired.
Step 13: Allow the glaze to set completely, about 30 minutes to an hour, before cutting.
Step 14: Cut into squares or rectangles and serve.

Tips & Variations

For a dairy-free version, substitute buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice and use dairy-free butter.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the dry ingredients for extra warmth and spice.
Try different toppings like toasted coconut or chopped dried fruit for a unique twist.
Use pure maple syrup for the glaze to get the most authentic flavor; avoid imitation syrups.

Storage

Store the maple donut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to a week. Reheat briefly in the microwave to soften the glaze before serving, if desired.

How to Serve

Three rectangular pieces of golden brown cake with a moist and textured surface are stacked on a white plate with speckled patterns. Each piece is thickly covered with smooth, creamy white icing that drips down the sides. Small brown round toppings and tiny green mint leaves decorate the top layer of icing, adding a fresh touch. In the background, a green cup with coffee or tea sits softly out of focus on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these donut bars gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum or another binder to maintain texture.

Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

You can prepare the glaze a few hours ahead, but for the best texture, pour it onto the bars right before serving or after they have fully cooled.