Dessert

Maple Donut Bars Recipe

ByElla Hart November 21, 2025November 21, 2025

Introduction

Maple Donut Bars are a delightful twist on classic donuts, offering the same sweet, cakey texture in an easy-to-slice bar form. These bars are topped with a luscious maple glaze that perfectly balances sweetness and warm maple flavors, making them a perfect treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

The image shows five square-shaped cake pieces arranged on a round wire rack. Each piece has two visible layers: a golden-brown base with a slightly textured, moist look, and a smooth, glossy, light beige icing that covers the top, dripping slightly over the edges. One piece is resting on top of the others, showing the inside layer, which is light yellow and soft. The wire rack sits on a white marbled textured surface, partially covered by a white cloth with black lace patterns. A white cup filled with a light-colored drink is blurred in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour (240g)
1/2 teaspoon baking soda (2g)
1/2 teaspoon baking powder (2g)
1/4 teaspoon salt (1g)
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (1g)
1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (56g)
1 large egg
1/2 cup buttermilk (120ml)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5ml)
1/2 cup powdered sugar (60g)
2 tablespoons maple syrup (30ml)
1/2 teaspoon maple extract (2.5ml)
1–2 tablespoons milk, as needed for consistency (15–30ml)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. Whisk them together and set aside.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar using a mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and buttermilk to the creamed mixture. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
Step 6: Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 7: Bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 9: While the bars are cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, maple extract, and milk until smooth.
Step 10: Once the bars are completely cool, spread or drizzle the glaze generously over the top. Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra maple flavor, substitute some of the vanilla extract with additional maple extract.
Use low-fat buttermilk or milk with a teaspoon of vinegar as a buttermilk substitute if needed.
Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, on top of the glaze for added texture and taste.
A pinch of cinnamon can be added to the dry ingredients for a warm spice twist.
To make mini bars, use a smaller pan and adjust the baking time accordingly, checking for doneness earlier.

Storage

Store Maple Donut Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, though the glaze may harden slightly. To store for extended periods, freeze the bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil; thaw at room temperature before serving. Reheat bars briefly in the microwave for a warm treat.

How to Serve

The image shows five square cakes with a thick, shiny light brown glaze on top. Four of the cakes are placed on a dark wire rack, while one cake is resting on top of the others, revealing a moist, golden-yellow cake layer beneath the glaze. The cakes have a slightly darker brown baked edge. In the background, there is a white cup and a wooden board with more cakes, all on a white marbled texture surface with a white lace cloth partially visible. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bars dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the buttermilk with a dairy-free milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and use a dairy-free butter alternative. The texture and flavor will remain delicious.

How can I tell when the donut bars are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bars. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bars are done. Avoid overbaking to keep them tender and moist.