Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars

Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars with maple glaze. Easy to make, perfectly soft, and full of sweet maple flavor. Ideal for breakfast or dessert.

These Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars are a cozy treat that remind me of weekend mornings with coffee and a warm pastry. They have the sweet maple flavor of a donut, but the soft texture of a cake bar. I made these for a Sunday breakfast, and the smell alone had everyone in the kitchen before they were even cooled.

What I love most is how easy they are to make compared to traditional donuts. No oil, no frying, and no mess. You just mix, bake, glaze, and enjoy. The maple icing sets perfectly on top, giving them that bakery look without the fuss.

My wife said these tasted better than the coffee shop ones she buys, and my kids couldn’t get enough. They are perfect for holidays, gatherings, or when you want something sweet but simple. Once you try these, you’ll keep the recipe close by.

Questions You May Have About This Recipe

Can I use maple syrup instead of maple extract?
Yes, you can. Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor. You may need to reduce another liquid slightly to balance the consistency.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these bars stay soft for a few days when stored in an airtight container. The glaze holds up well if kept at room temperature.

Can I freeze them?
Yes, you can freeze the bars without the glaze. When ready to serve, thaw and add the maple glaze.

Do I need a special pan?
No. A standard 9×13 inch baking pan works perfectly.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes. This recipe doubles well for larger batches. Just make sure not to overfill your pan so they bake evenly.

What You Need to Make Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars

For the bars

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon cinnamon

½ cup butter, softened

¾ cup brown sugar

¼ cup sugar

2 eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon maple extract

½ cup sour cream

½ cup milk

For the glaze

2 cups powdered sugar

3 tablespoons butter, melted

3 tablespoons pure maple syrup

1 teaspoon maple extract

2 to 3 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)

How to Make Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 inch pan or line it with parchment paper.

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

In a large bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, vanilla, and maple extract.

Mix in sour cream and milk. Gradually add dry ingredients until combined.

Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely before glazing.

To make the glaze:

Whisk powdered sugar, melted butter, maple syrup, and maple extract in a bowl.

Add milk slowly until smooth and pourable.

Spread glaze evenly over cooled bars. Allow it to set before cutting into squares or rectangles.

Tips

For a stronger maple flavor, use a dark grade maple syrup.

Let the bars cool completely before glazing or the icing will melt off.

Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture.

Store in an airtight container for up to four days.

Warm them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving to bring back the softness.

Reader Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “These bars were so soft and full of maple flavor. Perfect with coffee in the morning.” Carol W.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Loved how easy these were to make. My kitchen smelled amazing while they baked.” Nancy J.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This recipe is a keeper. My husband said they reminded him of bakery donuts.” Diane T.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I added a bit more maple extract for a stronger flavor. Turned out delicious.” Helen R.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I made these for brunch with friends and everyone asked for the recipe.” Patricia M.

Printable Recipe

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