Introduction
Soft Maple Donut Bars are a delightful twist on traditional donuts, combining the fluffy texture of cake with the comforting essence of maple syrup. These bars are not only easy to make but also perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a sweet treat with your morning coffee.
The beauty of these donut bars lies in their simplicity. With a rich maple glaze that adds a luscious finish, they are sure to impress anyone who has the pleasure of tasting them. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, these bars will elevate your dessert game effortlessly.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for glaze)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)
Directions & Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground nutmeg until well combined.
- In another bowl, combine the whole milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the bars are baking, prepare the maple glaze. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Stir in the pure maple syrup and vanilla extract.
- Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar until the glaze is smooth and well combined. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more maple syrup to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the bars are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cool, drizzle the maple glaze generously over the bars. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before cutting into squares or rectangles.
FAQs
What should I do if my donut bars are too dense?
Ensure you are not overmixing the batter and that your leavening agents are fresh.
Can I use a different type of flour for these bars?
Yes, you can experiment with cake flour for a lighter texture, but the proportions may need adjusting.
What if my glaze turns out too runny?
You can add more powdered sugar to thicken it up until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I add spices to enhance the flavor?
Absolutely! Adding cinnamon or even a hint of allspice can complement the maple flavor beautifully.
What if I don't have maple syrup on hand?
You can substitute with honey or agave syrup, but the flavor will differ slightly.
Is there a way to make these bars more visually appealing?
Consider adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dusting of cinnamon on top of the glaze.
Can I scale this recipe for a smaller group?
Yes, you can halve the ingredients and use an 8×8-inch baking dish instead.
What should I do if my donut bars burn on the edges?
Ensure your oven temperature is accurate and consider checking them a few minutes earlier next time.
Conclusion
Soft Maple Donut Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Their rich flavor and soft texture make them an irresistible choice for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
With their simple preparation and delicious results, these bars are bound to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a delightful baking experience that fills your home with the sweet aroma of maple.
Recipe Card
Indulgent Soft Maple Donut Bars for Every Occasion
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground nutmeg until well combined.
- In another bowl, combine the whole milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the bars are baking, prepare the maple glaze. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Stir in the pure maple syrup and vanilla extract.
- Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar until the glaze is smooth and well combined. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more maple syrup to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the bars are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cool, drizzle the maple glaze generously over the bars. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before cutting into squares or rectangles.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
