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Maple Donut Bars Recipe

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4.3 from 8 reviews

Enjoy the soft, fluffy texture of these delightful Maple Donut Bars, baked to perfection and topped with a rich, sweet maple glaze. These rectangular donut bars capture the classic flavor of bakery-style treats, making them an ideal choice for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. With a tender yeast dough base and a luscious maple icing, they offer a comforting and delicious experience that’s simple to make at home.

  • Author: Zara
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8–10 bars
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

For the Donut Bars:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
  • ½ cup warm milk (110°F)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ tsp salt

For the Maple Glaze:

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • ½ cup pure maple syrup
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1–2 tbsp milk (for thinning, as needed)
  • ½ tsp maple extract (optional, for stronger flavor)

Instructions

  1. Activate Yeast: Combine the warm milk, active dry yeast, and a pinch of granulated sugar in a small bowl. Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is activated and ready to use.
  2. Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter, eggs, and the activated yeast mixture. Mix until the dough comes together, then knead either by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook until smooth and elastic, about 8–10 minutes.
  3. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and allow it to rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
  4. Shape the Donut Bars: Once risen, punch down the dough to release air. Roll or press the dough into a greased rectangular baking pan, roughly 9x13 inches, ensuring even thickness across the pan.
  5. Second Rise: Cover the dough in the pan and let it rise again for about 30–45 minutes until puffed up.
  6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the donut bars for 20–25 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and cooked through. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly in the pan.
  7. Prepare Maple Glaze: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the pure maple syrup and bring to a gentle simmer. Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar gradually until smooth. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk to thin the glaze to your desired consistency. Stir in maple extract if using for extra flavor.
  8. Glaze Donut Bars: Pour the maple glaze evenly over the warm donut bars, spreading if needed. Let the glaze set before cutting into 8–10 rectangular bars.

Notes

  • You can substitute all-purpose flour with bread flour for a chewier texture.
  • Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
  • Maple extract is optional but enhances the flavor intensity of the glaze.
  • For a richer taste, brush melted butter on the bars before glazing.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
  • These bars can also be lightly fried instead of baked for a traditional donut texture.

Find it online: https://zaracooking.com/maple-donut-bars-recipe/