Name: Maple Donut Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 3/4 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup melted butter; 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup pure maple syrup; 2 tbsp heavy cream

These maple donut bars are soft, fluffy, and drenched in a silky maple glaze that melts in your mouth with every bite. They combine the texture of a classic cake donut with the ease of baking in a pan—no frying required. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an anytime treat, these bars pack all the nostalgia of a bakery favorite without the fuss.

The golden crumb of the donut base is delicately sweet and moist, acting as the perfect backdrop for the rich maple icing. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or just want a sweet way to start your day, these maple donut bars offer comfort and indulgence in every square.

What Kind of Maple Syrup Should I Use?

For the best flavor, use pure maple syrup—not pancake syrup. Grade A dark amber maple syrup offers the most robust maple flavor, which really shines through in the glaze. If you only have lighter syrup on hand, that works too, but the flavor will be more subtle.

Ingredients for the Maple Donut Bars

All-purpose flour – The foundation of the bars, giving them structure and a tender crumb.

Granulated sugar – Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the donut base.

Baking powder – Helps the bars rise and gives them a light, fluffy texture.

Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.

Milk – Adds moisture and helps create that soft, cake-like texture.

Eggs – Bind the ingredients and contribute to the structure of the bars.

Vanilla extract – Adds a hint of warmth and flavor depth to the batter.

Butter – Brings richness to the bars and helps keep them moist.

Powdered sugar – Used in the glaze for a smooth, sweet finish.

Pure maple syrup – The star of the glaze, providing that classic maple flavor.

Heavy cream – Gives the glaze its creamy consistency and richness.

How To Make the Maple Donut Bars

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. This ensures all the leavening and sweetening agents are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Once mixed, pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a tender texture.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish and smooth out the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 5: Make the Maple Glaze

While the bars are cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and heavy cream until smooth and slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.

Step 6: Glaze and Set

Pour the maple glaze over the cooled bars, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Let the glaze set before cutting into squares or bars.

How to Serve and Store These Maple Donut Bars

Serve these maple donut bars once the glaze has set for clean, defined pieces and the best texture. They make an excellent addition to a breakfast spread, pair beautifully with coffee, and work as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.

To store, place the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week, though the glaze may firm up slightly. To freeze, wrap individual bars in plastic and store in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the bars from drying out?

Store them in an airtight container and don’t overbake—pull them out as soon as a toothpick comes out clean.

Can I use pancake syrup instead of pure maple syrup?

You can, but the flavor won’t be as rich or authentic. Pure maple syrup is recommended for the glaze.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in the glaze?

Whole milk or half-and-half can work in a pinch, but heavy cream gives the glaze a silkier texture.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! You can double it and bake in two pans or a large sheet pan. Just watch the baking time closely.

Do these taste like cake or donuts?

They have a moist, cakey texture similar to old-fashioned cake donuts, but with the ease of bar format.

Can I add nuts or spices to the batter?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans or a touch of cinnamon would be lovely additions.

Want More Dessert Ideas?

If you love these maple donut bars, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Salted Caramel Pecan Cookies for a deeper caramel crunch.
• Lemon Churro Cookies if you’re craving tangy meets warm spice.
• Chocolate Crinkle Sandwich Cookies with a soft ganache center.
• Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies if you prefer classic nostalgia.
• Brown Sugar Maple Cookies with cozy fall flavor.