Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars
Indulge in the comforting flavors of maple with these soft baked donut bars. This easy recipe delivers a delicious donut experience without any deep frying, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. These bars are simple to make and bursting with authentic maple flavor.
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- saucepan
- Wooden skewer or toothpick
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
- ½ teaspoon Baking Soda
- ¼ teaspoon Salt
- ¾ cup Granulated Sugar
- ½ cup Packed Light Brown Sugar
- 2 Large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1 cup Buttermilk
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 2 cups Powdered Sugar
- ¼ cup Maple Syrup
- 2 tablespoons Milk
- ½ teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer).
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan before glazing.
- In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar until smooth.
- Stir in the maple syrup, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk until the glaze is smooth and creamy. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more milk. If it's too thin, add a little more powdered sugar.
- Once the donut bars are completely cool, pour the maple glaze over the top, spreading it evenly.
- Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For best results, use room temperature ingredients. To prevent the glaze from melting, ensure the donut bars are completely cool before applying. Store leftover donut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For a richer maple flavor, consider using maple extract in addition to maple syrup in the glaze. You can also top the glaze with chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.