Maple Donut Bars: A Delicious Recipe for Sweet Treats

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it’s simple, comforting, and perfect for sharing. I like that the bars bake evenly in a single pan, saving time and cleanup. The warm spices paired with maple syrup give these donut bars a classic flavor that works for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

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
1–2 tablespoons milk
Extra maple syrup for drizzling (optional)

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking pan or lining it with parchment paper. In a large bowl, I whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly mixed. In a separate bowl, I whisk the melted butter, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until smooth.

I pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold everything together just until combined, making sure not to overmix. I spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake it for 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

After baking, I let the bars cool slightly in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. While they cool, I whisk powdered sugar with milk to make a smooth glaze, adjusting the milk until the consistency is pourable. I stir in extra maple syrup for a stronger maple flavor, then drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled bars. I let the glaze set before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

I get about 16 bars from this recipe. The total time is around 45 minutes, including about 15 minutes of prep, 25–30 minutes of baking, and a short cooling and glazing time.

Variations

I sometimes add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the batter for extra texture. If I want a deeper spice flavor, I add a pinch of cloves or allspice. For a lighter glaze, I reduce the powdered sugar slightly and drizzle it more thinly over the bars.

Storage/Reheating

I store these donut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to five days. When I want to reheat them, I warm individual bars in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds to bring back their soft texture.

FAQs

Can I use pancake syrup instead of maple syrup?

I prefer real maple syrup for the best flavor, but pancake syrup works if that’s what I have on hand.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

I often bake them a day ahead and glaze them before serving to keep them tasting fresh.

Can I freeze maple donut bars?

I freeze the unglazed bars for up to two months and add the glaze after thawing.

What pan size works best for this recipe?

I use a 9×13 inch pan to get evenly thick bars that bake consistently.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

I check that the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Conclusion

I find these maple donut bars to be an easy and satisfying treat that delivers classic donut flavor in a simple baked form. Whenever I want something sweet, comforting, and crowd-pleasing, this is a recipe I come back to again and again.

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