Go Back
Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars – Cozy Morning Treats for Fall Thumbnail

Sweet Baked Maple Donut Bars

Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars are the perfect cozy treat for fall mornings and relaxed weekends. Inspired by classic West Coast maple bars, these baked donut bars are fluffy, lightly spiced, and topped with a smooth maple glaze that melts into every bite. Made with simple pantry ingredients, they’re easier than frying and just as satisfying. Whether served warm for breakfast, enjoyed with coffee, or shared as a sweet snack, these donut bars deliver comforting homemade flavor without extra fuss. Ideal for brunch spreads, family gatherings, or anytime you’re craving something soft, sweet, and baked from scratch.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients You’ll Need:
  • All-Purpose Flour
  • Regular all-purpose flour works best here giving the donut bars a soft structure without making them heavy.
  • Granulated Sugar
  • This adds just the right level of sweetness and pairs beautifully with the maple flavor.
  • Baking Powder
  • The key to a light fluffy bake. Make sure it’s fresh so your bars rise properly.
  • Salt
  • A small amount sharpens the flavors and keeps the sweetness balanced.
  • Ground Cinnamon
  • Adds gentle warmth and depth that complements the maple notes perfectly.
  • Eggs
  • Two large eggs help bind everything together while keeping the bars moist. Room-temperature eggs mix more smoothly.
  • Pure Maple Syrup
  • Always go for real maple syrup for a rich authentic taste—skip the artificial stuff.
  • Milk
  • Whole milk gives the best richness but any milk (including non-dairy) works just fine.
  • Butter
  • Melted butter brings moisture and flavor. Let it cool slightly before adding it in.
  • Powdered Sugar for the glaze
  • Mixed with a little milk it creates a smooth, sweet topping that finishes the bars beautifully.

Method
 

Get the Oven Ready

Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch pan and line it with parchment paper so the bars lift out easily later.

    Mix the Dry Ingredients

    In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This ensures the flavors are evenly spread throughout the batter.

      Whisk the Wet Ingredients

      In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, maple syrup, milk, and melted butter until smooth and glossy.

        Combine Everything

        Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently just until combined—overmixing can make the bars dense.

          Fill the Pan

          Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

            Bake

            Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top turns lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

              Cool and Glaze

              Let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then move them to a wire rack. Mix powdered sugar with a splash of milk and drizzle over the cooled bars.

                Notes

                Tips for Best Results

                Preheat the oven fully before baking. Always mix dry ingredients first, then add wet ingredients gradually for a smooth, even batter. Bake just until done for that signature soft texture.

                Make It Your Own

                Swap maple syrup with honey or agave if you want a different sweetness. You can also fold in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.

                Storage & Reheating

                Keep leftover donut bars in an airtight container at room temperature. To enjoy them warm, microwave briefly for that fresh-baked feel.

                Frequently Asked Questions

                Can I use whole wheat flour instead?
                 Yes, but expect a slightly denser texture. You may need a bit more liquid.
                How long will these donut bars stay fresh?
                 They stay good for up to four days when stored properly.
                Can they be frozen?
                 Yes! Freeze individual bars with parchment paper between layers for easy thawing.

                Final Thoughts

                Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars are the kind of recipe that feels cozy, nostalgic, and effortless all at once. They’re perfect for slow mornings, casual brunches, or anytime you’re craving something warm and homemade. Simple ingredients, easy steps, and big maple flavor—this is comfort baking done right.