Print

Maple Donut Bars Recipe

5 from 158 reviews

Maple Donut Bars are a moist, fluffy, and delightfully sweet treat that combines the comforting texture of a classic donut with the convenience of a bar. Made with a blend of all-purpose flour, maple syrup, and a light vanilla glaze, these bars offer a warm, rich flavor perfect for breakfast or a snack. They’re easy to prepare in one baking pan, making them an ideal option for sharing or meal prepping.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Baking Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup Milk (whole milk preferred)
  • 2 large Eggs
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
  • 1/2 cup Maple Syrup (plus extra for drizzling)
  • 1/4 cup Butter, melted (unsalted preferred)

Glaze

  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar
  • Maple Syrup (a few tablespoons for desired consistency, plus extra if thinning)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan using non-stick spray or butter to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined to evenly distribute the leavening and seasonings.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, thoroughly mix the milk, eggs, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and melted butter until fully incorporated to form a smooth, flavorful batter base.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bars light and fluffy rather than dense.
  5. Pour and Bake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating they are fully cooked.
  6. Cool the Bars: Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool for about 10 minutes in the pan. Then transfer them onto a wire rack to cool completely, which helps the glaze set properly.
  7. Prepare the Maple Glaze: While the bars are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar and a few tablespoons of maple syrup in a bowl until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding a bit of milk if needed to achieve a drizzle-able glaze.
  8. Glaze and Serve: Once the bars are completely cooled, drizzle the maple glaze generously over the top. Optionally, sprinkle with crushed nuts or a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use whole milk for richer flavor and moister bars, but any milk will work.
  • For a vegan option, substitute eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based milk and butter alternative.
  • Do not overmix the batter to maintain a light, tender crumb.
  • Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
  • Adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter or on top of the glaze adds a delightful crunch.
  • These bars are best enjoyed as an occasional indulgence paired with fruit or protein for balance.

Keywords: Maple Donut Bars, Maple Bars, Baked Donuts, Breakfast Bars, Maple Glaze, Sweet Bars, Easy Baking Recipe