Baked Maple Donut Bars Recipe

Introduction

These Baked Maple Donut Bars combine the soft, cakey texture of a donut with the convenience of a handheld bar. Drizzled with a sweet maple glaze, they make a perfect treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3/4 cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Step 4: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough donuts.
5. Step 5: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Step 6: While the bars are baking, prepare the maple glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup and confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
7. Step 7: Once the bars are done, let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before drizzling with the maple glaze.
8. Step 8: Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before cutting into bars and serving.

Tips & Variations

• If you’re out of maple syrup, honey can be a delightful substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.
• For a dairy-free option, almond milk works beautifully in this recipe instead of whole milk.
• Be sure not to overmix the batter to keep the texture light and tender.

Storage

Store the baked maple donut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. Reheat briefly in the microwave to enjoy the soft texture and fresh glaze.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk with almond milk or any other plant-based milk for a dairy-free version. The texture will remain soft and delicious.

How do I know when the bars are fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bars. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the bars are done. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven.

Baked Maple Donut Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 92 reviews

Delightfully soft and moist baked maple donut bars with a sweet, smooth maple glaze. This easy-to-make recipe combines classic donut flavors with the convenience of baking in a single pan, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.

• Author: Mia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 bars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Wet Ingredients

• 3/4 cup whole milk (or almond milk for dairy-free)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Glaze

• 1/2 cup maple syrup (or honey as substitute)
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan thoroughly to ensure the donut bars don’t stick.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Stir until evenly distributed.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, eggs, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light and tender.
5. Bake the Bars: Spread the batter evenly in the greased baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Prepare Maple Glaze: While the bars are baking, whisk together the maple syrup and confectioners’ sugar in a small bowl until you get a smooth, pourable glaze.
7. Cool and Glaze: Once the bars are done baking, let them cool in the baking pan for about 10 minutes. Then, drizzle the maple glaze evenly over the top.
8. Set Glaze and Serve: Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before cutting the bars into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

• If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with almond milk successfully.
• Honey can be used instead of maple syrup in the glaze, though the flavor will vary slightly.
• Do not overmix the batter to maintain the light, tender texture of the bars.
• Make sure to grease the pan well to prevent sticking.

Keywords: maple donut bars, baked donut bars, easy breakfast bars, maple glaze, sweet snack