Have you ever craved the warm, comforting flavors of maple donuts but wanted a simpler way to enjoy them? Maple Donut Bars from Scratch are the perfect solution! This delightful recipe combines the classic taste of maple with a soft, cake-like texture, making it an irresistible treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these delicious bars that will satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your family and friends.

Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will elevate your baking game!

Ingredients List

To make Maple Donut Bars from Scratch, gather the following ingredients:

For the Donut Bars:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (plus extra for drizzling)

For the Maple Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)

Substitutions:

• Butter: Use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Buttermilk: Substitute with almond milk or another non-dairy milk combined with vinegar for a vegan option.
• Maple Syrup: Honey or agave syrup can be used for a different flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the melted butter, buttermilk, eggs, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Stir until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

Step 5: Bake the Donut Bars

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Prepare the Maple Glaze

While the bars are baking, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk until smooth. Adjust the milk to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 7: Cool and Glaze

Once the bars are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, drizzle the maple glaze over the top.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 210
• Total Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 31g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 12g
• Protein: 3g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’d like to make Maple Donut Bars from Scratch a bit healthier, consider these modifications:

• Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Reduce Sugar: Cut down the granulated sugar by 1/4 cup for a less sweet treat.
• Use Greek Yogurt: Replace half of the butter with Greek yogurt to reduce fat and increase protein.

Serving Suggestions

These donut bars are perfect for a variety of occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions:

• Serve with Coffee: Pair these bars with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or snack.
• Top with Nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Add Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside fresh berries or sliced bananas for a refreshing contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the Batter: Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to dense bars.
2. Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use proper measuring cups for dry and wet ingredients to ensure the right consistency.
3. Skipping the Cooling Step: Allowing the bars to cool before glazing helps the glaze set properly.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your Maple Donut Bars from Scratch fresh:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep in the fridge for up to a week.
• Freezing: These bars freeze well! Wrap them individually and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

In summary, Maple Donut Bars from Scratch are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of maple with a soft, cake-like texture. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today, and don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments or subscribe for more delicious updates!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of syrup?

Yes! You can experiment with other syrups like honey or agave, but the flavor will differ from traditional maple.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

You can make it vegan by using plant-based milk and replacing the eggs with a flaxseed mixture or a commercial egg replacer.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the bars a day in advance and store them in an airtight container.