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Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars

These homemade Soft Baked Maple Donut Bars offer a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture infused with pure maple syrup, perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 9 bars
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour Use high-quality flour for the best results. Gluten-free substitution is possible.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Regular sugar is fine; reduce to 1/3 cup for less sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar Light brown for milder flavor, dark brown for richer taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda Ensure it’s fresh for proper leavening.
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder A small amount enhances the softness.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt This helps to balance the sweetness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon Brings warmth, increase for bolder flavor.
Wet Ingredients
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted Butter should be room temperature before melting.
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup Use real maple syrup for authenticity.
  • 1/4 cup milk Any type of milk can work, including dairy alternatives.
  • 1 large egg For binding and richness.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Pure vanilla extract recommended for best flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine all dry ingredients and whisk until evenly mixed.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together all wet ingredients until thoroughly combined.
  5. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently with a spatula until just combined.
  6. Pour batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
Baking
  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  2. Cool the bars in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift out using the parchment overhang and cool completely before slicing.
  3. Cut into desired bar sizes and enjoy.

Notes

Avoid overmixing to prevent dry bars. Check for doneness; if unsure, err on the side of underbaking.