Name: Maple Donut Bars Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled; 2 large eggs; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 cup pure maple syrup; 1/4 cup milk (or more, as needed); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; Chopped pecans or walnuts; Sprinkles; Crumbled bacon

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

2 large eggs

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

4 cups powdered sugar

1/2 cup pure maple syrup

1/4 cup milk (or more, as needed)

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Sprinkles (optional)

Crumbled bacon (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg for at least 30 seconds to ensure even distribution.

Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Make sure the butter is slightly cooled before mixing.

Step 3: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix; it’s okay if a few streaks of flour remain.

Step 4: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.

Step 6: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean and the edges are golden brown.

Step 7: Let the donut bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Sift the powdered sugar into a large bowl to remove lumps.

Step 9: Add the maple syrup, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the powdered sugar.

Step 10: Whisk all ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Adjust milk or powdered sugar to reach your desired consistency.

Step 11: Once the donut bars are completely cool, pour the maple glaze evenly over the top.

Step 12: Immediately sprinkle with your choice of chopped nuts, sprinkles, or crumbled bacon if desired.

Step 13: Allow the glaze to set completely, about 30 minutes to an hour, before cutting.

Step 14: Cut the donut bars into squares or rectangles and serve.

Tips & Variations

For extra moist bars, substitute half the buttermilk with plain yogurt.

Add cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice to the dry ingredients for a fall-inspired flavor.

Use maple-flavored glaze sparingly if you prefer a less sweet topping.

Try topping with toasted coconut instead of nuts for a different texture.

Crumbled bacon adds a salty contrast that pairs well with the maple glaze.

FAQs

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for best texture, or add it separately if not included.

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

You can use regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar per cup to mimic buttermilk’s acidity, which helps the bars rise and stay tender.