Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars
Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars are a delightful treat that brings the warm flavors of maple and cinnamon to your table. These bars are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack throughout the day. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they will surely become a favorite in your household.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars is a great choice because they are quick, simple, and delicious. The combination of maple syrup and cinnamon creates a warm, comforting flavor that appeals to both adults and kids. Plus, baking them in a pan makes the process easier than frying traditional donuts. You can enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save them for later!
How to Make Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars
Making these tasty bars is straightforward and requires just a few steps. Follow the recipe below to create your own batch of Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup melted butter (cooled)
- For glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar + 2 tbsp milk
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs, maple syrup, milk, and melted butter until smooth.
- Gently combine the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Mix the powdered sugar with milk to make the glaze and drizzle over the cooled bars.
How to Serve Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars
These bars are best served warm or at room temperature. You can cut them into squares and enjoy them on their own or with a cup of coffee or tea. They also pair wonderfully with fresh fruit or whipped cream for an extra treat.
How to Store Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars
To store your Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars, place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
Tips to Make Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars
- Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for best results.
- Allow the melted butter to cool before mixing; this prevents cooking the eggs.
- Don’t overmix the batter; stir until just combined for a soft texture.
Variation
You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruits to the batter for a fun twist. If you prefer a stronger maple flavor, try adding a teaspoon of maple extract.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A1: Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser.
Q2: How can I make these bars dairy-free?
A2: Use a non-dairy milk (like almond or soy milk) and a dairy-free butter substitute.
Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A3: Yes! You can make the bars a day or two in advance and store them in the fridge. Just glaze them before serving for the best taste.
Enjoy making and eating your Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars! They are a simple, delightful treat that everyone will love.