Name: Maple Donut Bars Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-490152H35M10S
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (240g); 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (2g); 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (2g); 1/4 teaspoon salt (1g); 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (1g); 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g); 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (56g); 1 large egg; 1/2 cup buttermilk (120ml); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5ml); 1/2 cup powdered sugar (60g); 2 tablespoons maple syrup (30ml); 1/2 teaspoon maple extract (2.5ml); 1–2 tablespoons milk, as needed for consistency (15–30ml)

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour (240g)

1/2 teaspoon baking soda (2g)

1/2 teaspoon baking powder (2g)

1/4 teaspoon salt (1g)

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (1g)

1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (56g)

1 large egg

1/2 cup buttermilk (120ml)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5ml)

1/2 cup powdered sugar (60g)

2 tablespoons maple syrup (30ml)

1/2 teaspoon maple extract (2.5ml)

1–2 tablespoons milk, as needed for consistency (15–30ml)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to ensure easy removal.

Step 2: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground nutmeg. Set this dry mixture aside.

Step 3: In a separate bowl, use a mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and buttermilk to the creamed butter and sugar. Mix thoroughly until fully combined.

Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a tender texture.

Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 7: Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: While the bars cool, prepare the maple glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, maple syrup, maple extract, and milk until smooth. Add milk gradually to reach desired consistency.

Step 10: Once the bars are completely cool, spread or drizzle the glaze generously over the top. Allow it to set before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, use melted butter instead of softened butter in the batter.

Substitute buttermilk with plain yogurt or milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice if you don’t have buttermilk on hand.

Add chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top of the glaze for extra texture and flavor.

Adjust the amount of maple extract in the glaze according to your taste preference; it’s quite potent.

Storage

Store the maple donut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them soft and fresh. You can refrigerate them for up to 5 days, though the glaze may firm up slightly. To reheat, warm bars briefly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften the glaze. For longer storage, freeze the bars; thaw completely before glazing and serving for best results.

FAQs

Can I make these donut bars dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use almond milk or another plant-based milk instead of buttermilk, adding a teaspoon of lemon juice to mimic the acidity.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bars; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bars are fully baked and ready to come out of the oven.