Description
These Maple Donut Bars are a quick, small-batch treat with a soft, cakey base and a glossy maple glaze. Perfect for beginners and anyone craving a homemade donut fix without the fuss of frying or making a huge batch.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (120g)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (5g)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (1g)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (56g)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar (65g)
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1/3 cup whole milk (80ml)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (5ml)
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- For the Maple Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (60g)
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (30ml)
- 1–2 teaspoons milk (5–10ml)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted (14g)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch pan with butter or nonstick spray. For easy removal, line with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add the egg and whisk until pale and slightly thick. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in two parts, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. If using, fold in chopped nuts.
- Scrape the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 20–22 minutes, until the edges are golden and the center springs back when touched. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let the bars cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift out and cool completely on a wire rack before glazing.
- For the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, melted butter, and 1 teaspoon milk. Add more milk as needed for a thick but pourable glaze.
- Pour or spoon the glaze over cooled bars, spreading evenly. Let the glaze set for 10 minutes. Slice into 8 bars and serve.
Notes
Do not overmix the batter for tender bars. Use real maple syrup for best flavor. Glaze only when bars are cool for a glossy finish. Add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips can be folded into the batter. For a vegan version, use a flax egg, dairy-free butter, and almond milk. Bars can be made gluten-free with a 1:1 baking blend. Store airtight at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (1/8 of recipe
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 15
- Sodium: 90
- Fat: 6
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 2
Keywords: maple donut bars, small batch donuts, easy donut bars, maple glaze, snack cake, beginner baking, no yeast donuts, quick dessert, brunch treat, American dessert