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Close-up of maple donut bars topped with a shiny maple glaze, arranged on a cooling rack in a bright kitchen, with a drizzle of icing and a jar of maple syrup in the background.

Maple Donut Bars

Soft, buttery, and sweet with a golden maple glaze, these Maple Donut Bars bring the flavor of a bakery-style donut into a simple, no-fry bar. Perfect for cozy brunches, make-ahead gifting, or any morning that needs a little extra comfort.
Servings 9 bars
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes

Equipment

  • 9x9 inch baking pan For baking the bars
  • mixing bowls One for wet, one for dry ingredients
  • Whisk and spatula For combining and folding ingredients

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
  • 3 tbsp pure maple syrup (for glaze)
  • 1 tbsp melted butter (for glaze)
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for glaze)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease.
  • In a large bowl, cream butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and buttermilk until smooth.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined—do not overmix.
  • Spread batter evenly into prepared pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until edges are golden and center springs back when touched. Let cool for 15 minutes.
  • While bars cool, make the glaze: whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth. If needed, add a drop of milk for a pourable consistency.
  • Drizzle glaze over slightly warm bars and let set before slicing into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Let the bars cool slightly before glazing so the topping sets perfectly without sliding off. Want extra depth? Add a pinch of espresso powder to the glaze to enhance the maple flavor. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temp or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 39gProtein: 4gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 170mgFiber: 1gSugar: 24gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 60mgIron: 1.5mg
Author: Emma Novich
Calories: 320kcal
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Keyword: baked donuts, coffee cake bar, easy brunch, maple donut bars