Name: Maple Donut Bars Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; 2 tablespoons maple syrup (for glaze); Extra maple syrup for drizzling (optional)

Ingredients

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 (for glaze)

1-2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)

Extra maple syrup for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well mixed.

Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, whole milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently fold with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Avoid overmixing; some lumps are okay.

Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly with a spatula.

Step 6: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the edges are lightly golden.

Step 7: Remove the pan from the oven and let the donut bars cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare the maple glaze by whisking powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of milk in a medium bowl until smooth.

Step 9: Add more milk a little at a time to reach a thick but pourable consistency that coats the back of a spoon.

Step 10: Stir in 2 tablespoons of maple syrup for extra flavor.

Step 11: Once bars are completely cooled, place them on a serving platter or cutting board.

Step 12: Drizzle the maple glaze evenly over the bars using a spoon or small spatula.

Step 13: Optionally, drizzle extra maple syrup on top for added sweetness and presentation.

Step 14: Let the glaze set for 10-15 minutes before slicing into squares or rectangles.

Tips & Variations

For a richer texture, substitute half the whole milk with buttermilk.

Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the batter for crunch.

Use pure maple syrup for an authentic flavor rather than pancake syrup.

Try adding a pinch of ground cloves or ginger for extra warmth in the spices.

If you prefer a thicker glaze, reduce the milk or add more powdered sugar gradually.

Storage

Store maple donut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to one week or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm individual bars in the microwave for about 15 seconds until soft and enjoyable. If glazed, allow the glaze to come to room temperature to avoid cracking.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?

All-purpose flour works best for the right texture, but you can substitute with a gluten-free blend if needed. Just be aware the texture might be slightly different.

How do I know when the donut bars are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bars; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bars are done. The edges should also turn a light golden brown.