Maple donut bars are a delightful treat that are super easy to make. With a sweet, warm maple glaze on top, they’re perfect for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack. Kids love them too, making them a great choice for family gatherings or just a tasty afternoon surprise.
Why You Will Love This Maple Donut Bars
These donut bars are not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. They use everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. The recipe is quick, so even on busy mornings, you can whip up a batch in no time. Plus, everyone loves a sweet treat, making these bars perfect for any occasion.
How to Make Maple Donut Bars
Making these donut bars is straightforward and enjoyable. You’ll start by activating the yeast and mixing the dough. After a bit of rising time, you’ll roll out the dough, cut it into bars, and bake them until golden and fragrant. Drizzling them with the maple glaze is the best part!
What You Need
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon milk (for glaze)
Step-by-Step
- In a bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let it sit until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth, then place in a greased bowl. Cover and let rise for about 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough and cut into bar shapes. Place on a baking sheet and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden.
- For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk. Drizzle over the warm bars.
- Enjoy your delicious maple donut bars!
How to Serve Maple Donut Bars
These donut bars are delicious on their own, yet they also pair nicely with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For extra fun, serve them with fresh fruit or a side of yogurt. You can even top them with chocolate chips or nuts for a little crunch. They’re great for brunch, a sweet treat after dinner, or even a delightful surprise in school lunches.
How to Store Maple Donut Bars
To keep your donut bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just place the bars in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. When you’re ready to enjoy them, pop them into the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up.
Recipe Tips
- Make sure your milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- Kneading the dough well will help it rise nicely.
- Letting the bars cool slightly before glazing allows the glaze to stick better.
- You can swap out the maple syrup for honey or agave for a different flavor.
- Ensure the baking sheet is greased to prevent sticking.
Variations & Swaps
- For a chocolate twist, add cocoa powder to the dough and chocolate chips to the glaze.
- Use almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra warmth.
- Top with crushed nuts or sprinkles for a festive touch.
- Consider drizzling with caramel sauce instead of maple for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
Can I make these donut bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the bars ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. They keep well for a few days, and you can always glaze them just before serving for that fresh taste.
Can I freeze leftover donut bars?
Yes! Once cooled, place the bars in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
How do I reheat the donut bars?
To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. If you prefer, you can warm them gently in the oven. This will bring back their soft texture.
What can I substitute for active dry yeast?
You can use instant yeast if that’s what you have on hand. Just add it directly to the dry ingredients without needing to activate it in the milk.
What mistakes should I avoid when making donut bars?
Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Over or under measuring can affect the dough’s texture. Also, keep an eye on the baking time; they should be golden but not overbaked.
Maple Donut Bars
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons) Make sure to activate properly.
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed Warm, not hot, for yeast activation.
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Glaze Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon milk (for glaze)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let it sit until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth, then place in a greased bowl. Cover and let rise for about 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough and cut into bar shapes. Place on a baking sheet and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden.
- For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk. Drizzle over the warm bars.
