Introduction

Maple Donut Bars are a delightful homemade treat that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon and maple syrup in a soft, cake-like bar. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, these bars are easy to make and loved by all ages.

The image shows three square-shaped pastries stacked on a white plate with a white marbled surface in the background. Each pastry has a golden brown, slightly crispy outer layer covered with sugar crystals. The top layer is drizzled with white icing in uneven lines. The texture looks soft and fluffy inside with a crunchy exterior. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup whole milk
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup maple syrup
1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
1-2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
Extra maple syrup for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well mixed.
Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, whole milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently fold the mixture together using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. A few lumps are fine—do not overmix.
Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the edges are lightly golden.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: To make the glaze, combine powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of milk in a medium bowl. Whisk until smooth.
Step 9: Add more milk gradually until the glaze is thick but pourable—enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 10: Stir in an additional 2 tablespoons of maple syrup for extra flavor.
Step 11: Place the cooled bars on a serving platter or cutting board.
Step 12: Drizzle the maple glaze evenly over the top of the bars using a spoon or small spatula.
Step 13: Optionally, drizzle a little extra maple syrup over the glazed bars for added sweetness and presentation.
Step 14: Allow the glaze to set for 10-15 minutes before slicing the bars into squares or rectangles.

Tips & Variations

For a nuttier flavor, add 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter before baking.
Use a light or dark maple syrup depending on your preferred intensity of maple flavor.
For a dairy-free option, substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free butter.
Try adding a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for extra warm spice notes.

Storage

Store maple donut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to one week. Reheat gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds before serving to bring back their soft texture. You can also freeze the bars, wrapped well, for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

How to Serve

This image shows a close-up of four square glazed doughnuts stacked casually on a white plate. The doughnuts have a golden brown outer layer with a soft, light beige inner dough that looks fluffy and moist. Each doughnut is covered with a shiny, slightly translucent white glaze that drips lightly down the sides. The top doughnut is resting partly on the doughnut below, showing its airy texture clearly. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface, which adds a clean and simple background to the warm tones of the doughnuts. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pancake syrup instead of maple syrup?

While pancake syrup can be used in a pinch, pure maple syrup provides a richer and more authentic flavor that complements the spices in these bars.

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 a few moist crumbs, the bars are done. The edges should also be lightly golden.