Maple Donut Bars are the perfect combination of soft, fluffy donut texture with a rich, sweet maple glaze. These bars are easy to make and offer the same delicious flavor as traditional maple donuts but in a convenient bar form. With a tender crumb and a delightful maple finish, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting treat, Maple Donut Bars are sure to become a favorite. Their irresistible flavor and soft texture make them the ultimate sweet indulgence.

Ingredients:

For the bars:

• 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 150g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 large egg
• 120ml (1/2 cup) whole milk
• 60g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon maple extract (or more for a stronger flavor)

For the maple glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon whole milk
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

For the bars:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon (if using).
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and maple extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be thick but smooth.
5. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
6. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the maple glaze:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
2. Once the bars have cooled, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top, allowing it to set slightly before slicing into bars.

Notes:

• Maple Extract: If you prefer a stronger maple flavor, feel free to add a little extra maple extract to the batter and glaze.
• Glaze Variations: You can adjust the consistency of the glaze by adding more maple syrup or powdered sugar depending on your preference. If you prefer a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar.
• Storage: Store any leftover Maple Donut Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be refrigerated for up to a week.

Conclusion:

Maple Donut Bars are the perfect combination of comfort and indulgence. With their soft, tender texture and the rich sweetness of maple glaze, they are an irresistible treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast or serving them at a gathering, these bars are sure to impress with their delicious flavor. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, Maple Donut Bars will quickly become your new favorite dessert or snack!