Name: Maple Donut Bars Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 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)

For the Maple Glaze:

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 a baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

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

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

Step 4: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and buttermilk to the creamed mixture. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined, taking care not to overmix.

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 for 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Meanwhile, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, maple extract, and enough milk to reach a smooth consistency.

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

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, try substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the glaze for additional warmth and spice.

If you don’t have maple extract, you can omit it and just use maple syrup in the glaze.

Use room temperature ingredients to help everything mix smoothly and create a tender texture.

Storage

Store maple donut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They can be refrigerated for up to 5 days, but note that the glaze may harden slightly in the fridge. To freeze, omit the glaze and place the bars in a sealed bag for up to 1 month. After thawing, apply the glaze before serving.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk mixed with 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk’s acidity, which helps with texture and rise.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft and tender.