Name: Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 3 h
Yield: 16 bars
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 cup pure maple syrup; 1/4 cup milk; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; --- For the Irresistible Maple Glaze ---; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup pure maple syrup; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 teaspoon pure maple extract; --- Optional Toppings ---; 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts; 2-3 strips of crispy beef bacon, crumbled

Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars invite you into a world where bakery-quality indulgence meets the comfort of your home kitchen. Imagine the sweet, nostalgic aroma of maple wafting through your house, promising a treat that’s both familiar and wonderfully unique. This recipe isn’t just about making a dessert; it’s about crafting an experience, a moment of pure, unadulterated bliss that feels like a warm hug on a crisp morning.

The humble donut, with its rich history stemming from Dutch “oliekoeken” brought to America, has evolved into countless beloved forms. While traditional donuts are often fried, our baked bar variation brings a modern twist, making them incredibly approachable for the home baker. The addition of pure maple syrup taps into a cherished North American culinary tradition, infusing each bite with a natural sweetness and depth of flavor that’s utterly irresistible. It’s a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients transforming into something extraordinary.

Why You’ll Adore These Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars

People absolutely adore this dish for several compelling reasons. Firstly, the texture is simply divine: incredibly soft, moist, and cake-like, mirroring the best qualities of a classic donut without the fuss of frying. Secondly, the flavor profile is a harmonious blend of sweet maple and subtle spices, creating a comforting taste that appeals to all ages. Finally, the convenience of baking these delightful treats in a bar format means less mess and more ease when it comes to serving. They are perfect for sharing at brunches, as an afternoon pick-me-up, or a delightful dessert. These Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars offer all the joy of a classic donut in an effortlessly elegant presentation.

Ingredients:

For the Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars:
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk (or 1 cup milk mixed with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or white vinegar, let sit for 5 minutes)
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pure maple extract (this is crucial for that authentic maple donut flavor!)
For the Irresistible Maple Glaze:
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) pure maple syrup (grade A, amber color, rich taste is best)
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) milk (any kind, whole milk works great for richness)
- 1 tablespoon (14g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon pure maple extract (for an extra depth of maple flavor)
Optional Toppings:
- 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
- 2-3 strips of crispy bacon, crumbled (for a delightful sweet and savory twist on your Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars!)

Preparing the Donut Bar Batter

Preheat and Prepare Your Pan:

First things first, let’s get our oven ready. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grab a 9×13-inch baking pan. We want to ensure our Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars don’t stick, so lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. For extra easy removal and cleanup, I often line the bottom with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to create “handles.” This truly makes lifting the cooled bars out a breeze, allowing for clean cuts.
Combine the Dry Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. It’s important to give these a good whisk to ensure all the leavening agents and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour. This step prevents pockets of unmixed ingredients and helps create a uniform texture in your Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars. A well-aerated flour mixture also contributes to a lighter, softer crumb.
Whisk the Wet Ingredients:

In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine the buttermilk (or your homemade buttermilk substitute), large eggs, melted and slightly cooled butter, pure vanilla extract, and pure maple extract. Give this mixture a thorough whisk until everything is well combined and smooth. Make sure your butter isn’t too hot when you add it to the eggs, as you don’t want to scramble them! The maple extract is a secret weapon here; it really enhances that iconic maple flavor, making these Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars truly sing.
Gently Combine Wet and Dry:

Now, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. With a rubber spatula or wooden spoon, mix until just combined. This is a critical step: do not overmix! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour too much, which can lead to tough, dense Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars rather than the tender, cake-like texture we’re aiming for. A few lumps in the batter are perfectly fine; in fact, they often indicate you haven’t overmixed. We’re going for a light hand here to keep them soft and fluffy.

Baking the Maple Donut Bars

Transfer to the Prepared Pan:

Carefully pour the donut bar batter into your prepared 9×13-inch baking pan. Use your spatula to spread the batter evenly across the bottom of the pan. You want a consistent layer so that your Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars bake uniformly. Give the pan a gentle tap on the counter a few times to release any large air bubbles and help the batter settle.
Bake to Golden Perfection:

Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be a beautiful golden brown and feel springy to the touch. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as oven temperatures can vary. The aroma filling your kitchen will be utterly delightful, a testament to the deliciousness that’s about to emerge.
Cool Completely:

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool. This step is very important: allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before attempting to glaze them. If you try to glaze warm Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars, the glaze will simply melt and run off, creating a sticky mess rather than a beautiful, set topping. Patience is a virtue here, my friends! It typically takes about 1 to 2 hours for them to cool down sufficiently. Once cool, you can use the parchment paper overhangs to carefully lift the entire slab of Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars out of the pan and place it onto a clean wire rack set over a baking sheet (to catch any glaze drips).

Crafting the Irresistible Maple Glaze

Melt the Butter (if not already):

If you haven’t already, melt the tablespoon of unsalted butter for the glaze. You can do this in a small saucepan over low heat or in the microwave in a microwave-safe bowl. Just a few seconds should do it; we just need it liquid, not sizzling hot. The melted butter in the glaze adds a wonderful richness and helps create that signature slightly opaque, smooth finish that makes these Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars look so appealing.
Whisk Together Glaze Ingredients:

In a medium bowl, combine the powdered sugar, pure maple syrup, milk, melted butter, and pure maple extract. Start by whisking vigorously with a fork or a small whisk. If the glaze seems too thick, add a tiny bit more milk, about a teaspoon at a time, until you reach a smooth, pourable, yet thick consistency. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon without being so thin that it just runs off the bars. Conversely, if it’s too thin, you can add another tablespoon or two of powdered sugar. The consistency of this glaze is key to achieving that perfect donut bar finish, so take your time to get it just right. It should be lusciously smooth with no lumps.

Glazing and Finishing Your Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars

Glaze the Cooled Bars:

Once your Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars are completely cool and on the wire rack over a baking sheet, pour the prepared maple glaze evenly over the top. You can use a spatula or the back of a spoon to gently spread the glaze to cover the entire surface, ensuring it reaches all the edges. Some glaze will likely drip down the sides and onto the baking sheet below, which is perfectly normal and why we used the baking sheet! The glaze will start to set fairly quickly, so work efficiently but without rushing.
Add Optional Toppings (if desired):

If you’re using optional toppings like chopped pecans, walnuts, or crumbled bacon, sprinkle them over the wet glaze immediately after applying it. This ensures they adhere nicely to the Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars as the glaze sets. The combination of sweet maple with crunchy nuts or salty bacon is truly divine and elevates these bars to another level of deliciousness!
Allow Glaze to Set:

Let the glazed Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars sit at room temperature for at least 15-30 minutes, or until the glaze is fully set. You’ll know it’s ready when the surface of the glaze is no longer sticky to the touch and has formed a slightly firm crust. This waiting period is important to ensure your bars are easy to slice and handle without making a sticky mess.
Slice and Serve:

Once the glaze has set, carefully transfer the entire slab of Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars to a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice the bars into your desired serving sizes. I usually aim for 12-16 bars, depending on how generous I’m feeling! A warm knife, wiped clean between cuts, can help achieve neater slices. Now, your beautiful, delicious Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars are ready to be devoured! They are perfect with a cup of coffee or as a delightful treat any time of day. The soft, cake-like texture combined with the rich maple glaze is absolutely irresistible.

Tips for Success and Storage of Your Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars

The Importance of Room Temperature Ingredients:

Using room temperature eggs and buttermilk (or milk) is crucial for a smooth, homogenous batter. Room temperature ingredients emulsify much better, meaning they combine more easily and evenly. This leads to a more uniform batter consistency, which in turn results in a lighter, more tender crumb for your Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars. If your eggs are cold, a quick trick is to place them in a bowl of warm water for about 5-10 minutes before using them.
Don’t Skimp on the Maple Extract:

While pure maple syrup provides a lovely, subtle flavor, the maple extract truly punches up that classic donut shop maple taste. It’s what gives these Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars their distinct, irresistible aroma and flavor profile. Don’t worry, it won’t taste artificial when used in the right amounts; it simply enhances the natural maple goodness.
Achieving the Perfect Glaze Consistency:

The glaze is key to these Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars! If your glaze is too thick, it will be difficult to spread evenly and might crack when cut. If it’s too thin, it will just run off the bars and soak into them, rather than forming a nice, opaque layer. Adjust with tiny increments of milk or powdered sugar until you get that pourable, yet substantial consistency. Think of it like a slightly runny honey, but still able to hold its shape a bit.
Cooling is Non-Negotiable:

I cannot stress this enough: ensure your Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars are completely, utterly, undeniably cool before glazing. Even a slightly warm bar will cause the glaze to melt and become a watery, sticky mess. Patience here will be rewarded with a beautiful, set glaze.
Storage Information:

These Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars are best enjoyed within 2-3 days of baking. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If it’s particularly warm or humid, you can store them in the refrigerator, but let them come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor. Storing them uncovered will cause them to dry out quickly, so always use an airtight container or cover them tightly with plastic wrap.
Freezing Instructions:

If you want to prepare these Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars ahead of time or save some for later, they freeze remarkably well! Bake the bars and let them cool completely, but do not glaze them yet. Wrap the cooled, unglazed bars tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them at room temperature, then prepare the fresh maple glaze and apply it as per the instructions. This ensures you get that fresh, perfect glaze experience every time.
Flavor Variations:

While these Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars are divine on their own, don’t be afraid to experiment! Consider adding a touch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a subtle spice note. You could also drizzle a little bit of melted white chocolate over the set maple glaze for an extra layer of sweetness and visual appeal. For a fun seasonal twist, a pinch of pumpkin pie spice would be lovely in the fall. The base recipe for these Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars is so versatile, offering endless possibilities for customization.
Serving Suggestions:

These Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars are incredible on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, a glass of cold milk, or even as a surprisingly delightful dessert after a simple meal. Their soft, tender crumb and rich maple flavor make them a comforting treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up. They are also a fantastic item to bring to a potluck or bake sale, as they are universally loved and quite easy to transport once the glaze is set.

Conclusion:

And so, we arrive at the sweet conclusion of our journey with these delightful treats. I genuinely believe that if there’s one recipe you absolutely must add to your baking repertoire this season, it’s this one. Why, you ask? Because these aren’t just ordinary bars; they are a truly magical transformation of classic flavors into an effortlessly achievable form. Forget the deep fryer, the complicated yeast dough, or the lengthy proofing times. With this recipe, you get all the comforting, tender deliciousness of a perfectly glazed donut, but in an easy-to-make, supremely satisfying bar format. The aroma alone, as these bake, is enough to transport you to a cozy, sun-drenched kitchen, filling your home with the warm, inviting scent of maple and freshly baked goodness. That incredible aroma is just the beginning; the moment you take your first bite, you’ll understand why I’m so enthusiastic. The texture is truly remarkable – incredibly soft, almost cake-like, yet with a subtle chewiness that perfectly mimics a classic donut, all infused with that quintessential, rich maple flavor that just sings on your palate. It’s a comfort food dream come true, a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth that promises to become a household favorite from the very first batch. These Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars are, without a doubt, a testament to how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary and profoundly comforting.

Now, let’s talk about enjoying these beauties. While they are absolutely divine enjoyed plain, perhaps still slightly warm from the oven, with a simple cup of coffee or a tall glass of milk, there are so many ways to elevate your experience. For a classic touch, a dusting of powdered sugar makes them look incredibly inviting. If you’re feeling a bit more indulgent, I highly recommend whipping up a quick maple glaze – a simple mixture of powdered sugar, a splash of milk, and a touch more pure maple syrup will take them straight over the top, adding that signature donut shine and an extra layer of sweetness. You could even sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon-sugar over the glaze while it’s still wet for a delightful textural contrast and an added hint of spice. But don’t stop there! Imagine them served warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream for an unexpected and utterly decadent dessert, the cold ice cream melting ever so slightly into the warm, tender bar. The possibilities for pairing are endless, truly making them versatile for any occasion, from a morning treat to an evening indulgence.

And for those who love to experiment, this recipe is a fantastic canvas for your culinary creativity. Consider adding some finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts to the batter for a delightful nutty crunch. A sprinkle of mini chocolate chips would also be a fantastic addition, especially if you’re catering to chocolate lovers. You could even play with different extracts – a touch of almond extract in the batter or glaze could add a lovely, nuanced flavor. For a seasonal twist, imagine a hint of pumpkin pie spice mixed into the batter during the autumn months. These bars are incredibly forgiving and adaptable, encouraging you to make them uniquely your own. They are not just a recipe; they are an invitation to create joy in your kitchen. They also make fantastic edible gifts, beautifully wrapped and shared with friends, family, or appreciative neighbors.

So, now it’s your turn! I’ve shared all my tips, my enthusiasm, and the step-by-step guide to making these utterly irresistible treats. I truly encourage you to clear some space in your kitchen, gather your ingredients, and dive into the wonderful world of baking these Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars. The joy of baking them, the intoxicating aromas that will fill your home, and the pure delight of that first tender bite are experiences I sincerely want you to have. I absolutely cannot wait to hear about your baking adventures and see your delicious creations. Please don’t hesitate to share your experiences in the comments below, tell me about any variations you tried, or even just what your family thought of them. Your feedback and stories truly inspire me and help build our wonderful community of home bakers. Happy baking, my friends, and may your kitchens always be filled with warmth, laughter, and the irresistible scent of something delicious just pulled from the oven!